Category: News

Rock News: October 16, 2024

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.

Rock News: October 2, 2024

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.

Rock News: September 25, 2011

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].

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.
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 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.

New Women’s Bible Study

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. 

Rock News: September 11, 2024

Happening at The Rock
September 21, 2024, Rock the Block from 4:00-8:00October 11-12, 2024, Pure Freedom Retreat (high school girls)October 15, 2024, Communion Class, 6 p.m.June 19-26, 2025, Guatemala Mission TripJuly 19-23, 2025, LCMS Youth Gathering
Join us for Rock the Block on Saturday, September 21 from 4-8. Music, snow cones, bounce house, face paint, and BBQ! Bring your friends.
Teen 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.
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.
The Rock and St. John partner to offer Godparent Groups for high school students. Currently, more leaders are needed for freshmen! If you are interested in leading a group of high schoolers, please reach out to Cayla Freeman, Godparent Coordinator at St. John Lutheran Church.
What is Godparents?A Godparent (GP) group typically consists of one husband/wife GP Leader couple and a small group of high-school age youth. Groups are formed as confirmed youth enter their freshman year in high school. This group remains together through the four years of high school. Groups meet every Wednesday evening from September through April, as the group determines, primarily at the leaders’ home. Through the inclusion of Bible Study, discussion, activities and prayer, the GP ministry offers youth an opportunity to establish Christian relationships with their peers and adult leaders as they walk through formative high school years and prepare for life as a Christian man or woman.
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.
Sign up for the 4 Person Golf Scramble scheduled for September 22 to help support the teens from The Rock going to the LCMS Youth Gathering next summer. Don’t golf? You can still buy raffle tickets. See Jen Janousek or CLICK HERE for details. Sign up HERE.
Our September item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is boxed meals. 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.

Rock News, August 22, 2024

Happening at The RockSeptember 4, 2024, Stepping Stones and FaithInk Potluck at 6:30September 21, 2024, Rock the Block from 4:00-8:00
Important: All members with keys to the building, please check to see if you have a key that says “Control” on it and let Danna know that you have it.
Join us for Rock the Block on Saturday, September 21 from 4-8. Music, snow cones, bounce house, face paint, and BBQ! Bring your friends.
Thanks for your donations to improve the second floor classrooms! Thanks to your generosity last year, Stepping Stones has enough supplies for their activities this year. Now that our windows are repaired, they’re ready to use the second floor classrooms again and it’s time to spruce up those classrooms. You can make a donation to that project by donating online or in the offering basket and designating it for Stepping Stones. Thanks for your continued partnership in this ministry.
Still time to sign up for children’s and youth ministry!
Stepping Stones, for ages 3-4th grade, and FaithInk for grades 5-8 meet on Wednesday nights from 6:30-7:30 p.m. during the school year. We will kick off another year of fun starting with a potluck at The Rock on Wednesday, September 4 at 6:30. Please bring a main dish and a side/dessert to share. The whole family is welcome! This is also a great chance to meet Rev. Bartels.
Help us plan our classes by signing your kids up as soon as you can.Stepping Stones RegistrationFaithInk Registration

What is Godparents? A Godparent (GP) group typically consists of one husband/wife GP Leader couple and a small group of  high-school age youth. This group remains together through the four years of high school. Groups meet every Wednesday evening from September through April, as the group determines, primarily at the leaders’  home. Through the inclusion of Bible Study, discussion, activities and prayer, the GP ministry offers  youth an opportunity to establish Christian relationships with their peers and adult leaders as they walk  through formative high school years and prepare for life as a Christian man or woman.
Godparents (grades 9-12) will have an annual Kick off event at the St. John Fellowship Hall at 7:00 on August 28th, where the formed groups will meet for the first time with the leaders. They will have a meal and share announcements. Do you have a teen ready to start Godparents? Fill out the Letter of Intent attached HERE and send it to [email protected] ASAP.
You are invited to join Trail Life USA & American Heritage Girls Sunday Aug. 25th for a joining event to learn about our group. Come on over at 6:30 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran in Waco (1011 Rd U). Trail Life is a Christian Outdoor Adventure group for boys ages 5-17. American Heritage Girls is a Christian group for girls ages 5-17. Contact Pastor Mau 402-363-1540 with any questions. We hope to see you there!
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.
Our August item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is canned fruit. 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 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. July minutes from our Directors are available HERE.August minutes from our Ambassadors 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.

Rock News, August 1, 2024

Happening at The RockSeptember 4, 2024, Stepping Stones and FaithInk Potluck
Important: All members with keys to the building, please check to see if you have a key that says “Control” on it and let Danna know that you have it.
Help us improve the second floor classrooms! Thanks to your generosity last year, Stepping Stones has enough supplies for their activities this year. Now that our windows are repaired, they’re ready to use the second floor classrooms again and it’s time to spruce up those classrooms. You can make a donation to that project by donating online or in the offering basket and designating it for Stepping Stones. Thanks for your continued partnership in this ministry.
It’s time to sign up for children’s and youth ministry!
Stepping Stones, for ages 3-4th grade, and FaithInk for grades 5-8 meet on Wednesday nights from 6:30-7:30 p.m. during the school year. We will kick off another year of fun starting with a potluck at The Rock on Wednesday, September 4 at 6:30. This is also a great chance to meet Rev. Bartels.
Help us plan our classes by signing your kids up as soon as you can.Stepping Stones RegistrationFaithInk RegistrationWe hope to share information about Godparents (high school) soon.
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.
Our August item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is canned fruit. 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.
Women’s Retreat: Coffee and Conversation with Deb Burma! A women’s morning retreat will be held Saturday, August 24, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church. Deb Burma will speak on her recent Bible Study, “Leaning on Jesus.” The morning offers music, brunch, specialty coffees, and more! Details can be found here. Please pre-register for this free event. Register using this form, or call or text 402-617-3410, or email [email protected].
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. 
July minutes from our Directors are available HERE.
July minutes from our Ambassadors 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.

Rock News, July 19, 2024

Happening at The RockJuly 21, 2024, Annual Voters’ Meeting, after the service
Our annual voters’ meeting will be held on July 21 after the service. If you would like to confirm that you are a voting member of The Rock, please see one of our Ambassadors. Visit our website leadership page to see who is serving and how to contact them.
Access the Meeting Agenda and the Ministry Plan before the meeting.
The Rock is hiring a part-time Administrative Assistant to support the Pastor, Ambassadors, and Directors. This position will enhance the ability for all ministries within the church to grow God’s Kingdom. Full details and information about how to apply can be found here on Indeed.
Pick up a name tag on your way into church for the next few weeks. We’ll help the Bartels—and each other—learn everyone’s names.
Help welcome the Bartels family to the Rock and the Seward community by participating in our Meal Train! Sign up for a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday to either drop a meal off, take them out, or have them over for a meal! Sign up for a date and meal at this link.
The Rock Facility Improvement Project
Thank you to all who participated in our clean-up weekends!
While we are blessed to have such a magnificent facility, its size brings unique challenges when it comes to cleaning and upkeep. Many of you have asked, “How can I help?”—and now, we have a plan for The Rock Family to come together and take action! 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.
Your information is needed for our directory! Please help our new pastor get to know your name. We are asking you to do two very easy things:If you haven’t already done so, please follow THIS LINK and check if you are in the directory, and if not, e-mail us and we’ll send you a form to fill out so that we can add you. The password currently is “ForeverFamily” but will change from time to time to protect our information.If you haven’t added your photo, go to THIS LINK for instructions on how to setup your login (which we won’t change on you) so that you can update your information and add a photo of your family. (link to Bill’s instructions)The quality of the directory depends on you updating your information, and we hope you will get in, update it and use it.
Our July item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is canned meat—but not tuna, as that gets its own month. 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.
Women’s Retreat: Coffee and Conversation with Deb Burma! A women’s morning retreat will be held Saturday, August 24, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church. Deb Burma will speak on her recent Bible Study, “Leaning on Jesus.” The morning offers music, brunch, specialty coffees, and more! Details can be found here. Please pre-register for this free event. Register using this form, or call or text 402-617-3410, or email [email protected].
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. June 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.

Rock News

Happening at The Rock

July 7, 2024, Potluck lunch after the service
July 14, 2024, 2:00, Installation and ordination of Jonathan Bartels as pastor, followed by a reception (more details soon)
July 21, 2024, Annual Voters’ Meeting, after the service

Stay after the service this Sunday, July 7, for a potluck lunch! We want to spend some time in fellowship with the Loeschens to thank them for serving us so faithfully during our vacancy. Please bring both a main dish and a side/dessert to share.
Our current series is “Bible Verses to Highlight” so bring along your Bible and some highlighters, pens, or pencils to follow along.
The Rock Facility Improvement Project
Thank you to all who participated in our clean-up weekends!
While we are blessed to have such a magnificent facility, its size brings unique challenges when it comes to cleaning and upkeep. Many of you have asked, “How can I help?”—and now, we have a plan for The Rock Family to come together and take action! 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 getting ready to welcome Jonathan Bartels to serve as our next pastor. Soon-to-be Pastor Bartels, his wife, Emily, and their newborn son, Shepherd, have arrived in Seward.
While we wait for his ordination and installation day (scheduled for the afternoon of July 14), let’s prepare to shower them with local gift cards. Between now and their arrival in July, put any gift cards or Chamber Bucks you’d like to gift them into the offering basket. We’ll collect them and gift them to the Bartels at their welcome reception. (We will share more details about that day soon.)
Help welcome the Bartels family to the Rock and the Seward community by participating in our Meal Train! Sign up for a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday to either drop a meal off, take them out, or have them over for a meal! Sign up for a date and meal at this link.
Your information is needed for our directory! Please help our new pastor get to know your name. We are asking you to do two very easy things:If you haven’t already done so, please follow THIS LINK and check if you are in the directory, and if not, e-mail us and we’ll send you a form to fill out so that we can add you. The password currently is “ForeverFamily” but will change from time to time to protect our information.If you haven’t added your photo, go to THIS LINK for instructions on how to setup your login (which we won’t change on you) so that you can update your information and add a photo of your family. (link to Bill’s instructions)The quality of the directory depends on you updating your information, and we hope you will get in, update it and use it.
Our annual voters’ meeting will be held on July 21 after the service. If you would like to confirm that you are a voting member of The Rock, please see one of our Ambassadors. Visit our website leadership page to see who is serving and how to contact them.
We are hiring a part-time administrative assistant. We’ll share details soon. If you have questions, see one of the Ambassadors.
Our July item to donate in support of Blue Valley Community Action is canned meat—but not tuna, as that gets its own month. 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 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. June 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.