Rock News

Palm Sunday Service (with confirmation), April 2

Good Friday Service with Holy Communion, April 7, 6:30 p.m.

Easter Service & Breakfast, breakfast starting at 9:00 and service at 10


Please pray for Pastor Mike and his family as they consider a Divine Call for him to serve Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Rogers, Arkansas, as their Associate Pastor for Family and Youth. They are visiting that congregation this weekend. Please pray for them as they contemplate this opportunity, and share any words of encouragement and support you might have for them. He anticipates announcing his decision by April 14. 


No men’s breakfast this week!

Men’s breakfasts have resumed on Saturday mornings at 7:00 a.m. in the Rock cafe, but they will not gather this weekend while Pastor Mike is away.


Let the Guatemala Mission Team egg your house!

On the evening of April 8th, 2023, the Guatemala Missions Team will come to your home (or the home of a friend/family/neighbor) and hide 12 Easter eggs in the yard. There will be 11 candy-filled eggs and 1 empty egg as a reminder of the empty tomb! Cost is $15 per dozen eggs, $25 for 2 dozen, $35 for 3 dozen, $45 for 4 dozen, $55 for 5 dozen. Please contact Jennifer Janousek by text/phone (402-499-3512) or email [email protected] with questions. They accept payment by cash, check (make check out to The Rock), or Venmo (@jennifer-janousek) by April 4, 2023. You can fill out the form LINKED HERE with your order.


Tales of the Wag – Stories about the Comfort Dog Ministry

Nico is a commissioned service dog through the Lutheran Church Charities and The Rock Church.  That means Nico has been made available to be used by the Holy Spirit to give comfort where, when and how he may be needed. When the Spirit uses Nico, we call them God moments.  The team has logged so many God moments since Nico was commissioned in 2017 where The Spirit has put His power in the pet.  Tale 1:  Nico was invited to a Lutheran School in Fort Dodge, Iowa to offer comfort to the students who lost their much-loved Pastor to violence right outside the school’s doors.  One young student would not leave Nico’s side for hours.  He only spoke to tell us his name but kept a hand on Nico the full time as we invited him to stay next to us.  Tale 2:  A group of students were sitting around Nico to receive comfort dealing with the death of a paraprofessional, a teacher walked up to join the circle of students sitting around Nico. Nico ‘soldier crawled’ to him on the edge of the circle and laid his head in his lap.  Tale 3:  Nico was at a funeral for a young man who lost his life in a car accident. A boy of about 10 walked right past the puppies in training, past other smaller LCC Comfort Dogs right to Nico’s face and started to pet him.  The parents of the boy ran fantastically up to us to explain that the boy was deathly afraid of all dogs.  He came back 2 more times during our deployment at the funeral.  Tale 3:  Nico has often pulled his Handler to a specific person.  During a LWML meeting Nico wanted to stay next to a lady.  The next day her husband found out the results of some testing.  The husband had cancer.  Tale 4:  Nico has a special love for mentally challenged kids.  Nico was servicing at a Rest Home. One of Nico’s friends came around a corner to see Nico down a long hallway.  He pulled his hand from his mom’s hand and ran full out to get to Nico as he called out Nico, Nico, Nico.  Nico recognized him.  Nico sat down firmly on his but, raised his face to receive the full running force of his friend to receive lots of kisses and hugs.  All God’s promises prove true, so we ask The Spirit to use Nico to give others Our Lord’s Grace and Peace.  Until the next Wag where we will look at some of the tales where God put His power on His humans in the Dog Team, allow the Bible to read you as you read the Good Word.  Thoughts from Marcia Newsome.


Blue Valley Community Action

Our February item for the Blue Valley food pantry is peanut butter, which we collect in a tub in the Rock cafe. We will start collecting paper towels in April. 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. They’ve had quite a few more families making use of the pantry this winter, so your help is greatly appreciated.


YogaFaith News

Join Erika Rolf (RYT-200) or Sara Moll (RYT-200) for Christian YogaFaith classes at The Rock!  

February class offerings are as follows:  

  • Online Sonrise YogaFaith Class (online class – take anytime and as many times as you want – a new 30 Minute class is offered each month) 
  •  Tune up Tuesday at CUNE (for Concordia University students) at 3:45-4:30 pm/Cattle Conference Center (Erika) FREE
  • All Level Tuesdays at 5:30 pm CST at The Rock  (Erika)
  •  All Level Thursdays at 5:30 pm CST at The Rock  (Sara or Erika)
  •  Flow and Go Saturdays from 8:00-8:45 am CST at The Rock – Possible Pop Up classes (watch your e-mail and social media for dates)
  •  Restorative YogaFaith from 7:00-8:00 pm CST at The Rock – SIGN UP IN ADVANCE PLEASE.

Please see their Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.  https://www.facebook.com/YogaFaith-Seward-256010628294784/



Our Website | https://www.therockseward.org/

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

Vimeo | https://vimeo.com/therockseward  

YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRockSewardNebraska

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/therockseward 

Contact Us | [email protected] 

Prayer Requests | [email protected] 

Mail | PO Box 199, Seward, NE 68434

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

Rock News

Remember to join us for our Ash Wednesday service this week at 6:30. Imposition of ashes will be available for those who wish. Parents, this will take the place of Stepping Stones and FaithInk. Please plan to attend with your whole family. Join us before the service for a taco/nacho meal. See below for details.


Another way to support the building fund

If you’re looking for another way to support the Rock, Emmi Moll currently has artwork for sale with all proceeds going to the fundraiser for building repairs. The art is on display at Neutral Grounds coffee shop in Seward through the end of February.

The “Solid through the Storm” building initiative will prepare The Rock to address facility repairs arising from last summer’s hail storm.  As shared previously, The Rock’s insurance deductible is $45,000 and total costs are still not fully known. Any funds raised beyond the storm repair costs will be held in reserve for additional facility repairs and improvements deemed ministry priorities. Goal: $45,000 total by 6-30-2023


Men’s breakfasts have started again

Men’s breakfasts have resumed on Saturday mornings at 7:00 a.m. in the Rock cafe.


Support the Guatemala mission trip with upcoming fundraisers

Did you know The Rock has 12 mission team members traveling to Guatemala in June? With high airfare prices and inflation impacting team expenses/fees in Guatemala, they could really use your support with two upcoming fundraising opportunities:

  • This Wednesday, February 22, the mission team will be hosting a nacho/taco meal from 5:30-6:30pm at The Rock before the Ash Wednesday church service at 6:30. Free will offering donations are greatly appreciated.
  • Raffle Opportunity: The team will be hosting a raffle to give away 4 MercyMe concert tickets + $50 gift certificate for dinner at the restaurant of the winner’s choice! Package valued at $250. The MercyMe concert is on March 26 at 7pm at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Seats are section 114, row 12, seats 7-10. Raffle tickets will be sold before/after church on Sundays and Ash Wednesday or by contacting a team member directly. 1 raffle ticket for $10 or 3 for $20; Drawing on March 1.

Muchas Gracias from the Guatemala Team Members: Pastor Mike Meyer, Michaela Twito, Keegan Beisel, Rachel Ada, Hannah Beintema, Emma Dannehl, Heidi and Joseph Gubanyi, Lawson Luebbe, Jen, Aubrey, and Lathan Janousek


Team Nicodemus Meeting

Interested in becoming a handler or ministry assistant for Nicodemus Comfort Dog? The next regular scheduled Nico Team Meeting will be on Sunday, February 26 in Room 217 on the second floor at the Rock at 11:20.


Tales of the Wag – Stories about the Comfort Dog Ministry

Last time I wrote about relationships being built over time in this ministry with God’s grace right in the middle of the construction. This time I would like to look at how God connects His dog and our brains. Our Nico is AKC certified and has passed the AKC good citizenship test.  He is trained to the level of a service dog.  Nico has been conditioned to remain calm in most situations. To this training Nico, just as all LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs, has been commissioned through the Holy Spirit into His service. Our God-created brains have brain chemicals or hormones to help us process our lives.  Cortisol, the fight or flight hormone, is produced under stress, fear, anxiety, and trauma. Needed, but if not controlled or removed, cortisol can have an ill effect on our health. This is where a ‘pet’ can help.  As one pets Nico, it is processed in a different part of our brains than the stress, fear, anxiety, and trauma.  During the ‘pet’ other hormones are produced, like oxytocin and dopamine.  These hormones calm us and actually give a rest to our brains.  The tale: A circle of CUNE students are petting Nico and are having conversation with each other, as well as the Handler.  A young lady walks up to the circle and gets a hand onto Nico but doesn’t talk, just pets.  The students leave but she remains to tell us that her stomach ache has stopped since petting Nico.  With some enthusiasm she expresses that she is ready to go back to meet the challenge of her project that caused her stomach ache.  Her brain rested, she received some calm, then her brain reset under God’s grace. Our Team has seen this happen on a very large scale with trauma, as well as with a kindergartener having a bad morning. The rest, the calm, the reset under God’s Grace.  Next time I want to write about the Power that God puts into the ‘pet’. Until that time, may you absorb our Lord’s Presence, Peace, and Love.  Thoughts from Marcia Newsome.


Blue Valley Community Action

Our February item for the Blue Valley food pantry is soup, which we collect in a tub in the Rock cafe. 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. They’ve had quite a few more families making use of the pantry this winter, so your help is greatly appreciated.


YogaFaith News

Join Erika Rolf (RYT-200) or Sara Moll (RYT-200) for Christian YogaFaith classes at The Rock!  

February class offerings are as follows:  

  • Online Sonrise YogaFaith Class (online class – take anytime and as many times as you want – a new 30 Minute class is offered each month)  – 2/6 (Erika)
  •  Tune up Tuesday at CUNE (for Concordia University students) at 3:45-4:30 pm/Cattle Conference Center –  2/14 (Sara), 2/28 (Erika) FREE
  • All Level Tuesdays at 5:30 pm CST at The Rock  – 2/7, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28 (Erika)
  •  All Level Thursdays at 5:30 pm CST at The Rock  – 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, (Sara) 2/23 (Sara or Erika)
  •  Flow and Go Saturdays from 8:00-8:45 am CST at The Rock – Possible Pop Up classes (watch your e-mail and social media for dates)
  •  Restorative YogaFaith from 7:00-8:00 pm CST at The Rock – 2/5 (Sara), 2/12 (Erika), 2/19 (Erika), 2/26 (Erika)*  SIGN UP IN ADVANCE PLEASE.

Please see their Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.  https://www.facebook.com/YogaFaith-Seward-256010628294784/



Our Website | https://www.therockseward.org/

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

Vimeo | https://vimeo.com/therockseward  

YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRockSewardNebraska

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/therockseward 

Contact Us | [email protected] 

Prayer Requests | [email protected] 

Mail | PO Box 199, Seward, NE 68434

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

Rock News

Souper Sunday 2023 is almost here!

You provide the soup and desserts, we’ll provide the bowls! (And spoons, and cups, and extension cords for your slow cookers…) Please bring a soup and dessert to share for our potluck lunch after the service this Sunday, February 12. If you’re not able to bring something this year, please still come for food and fellowship with us!


Lawn Care Service Needed

The Nebraska District Office is looking for a new lawn care provider starting this spring. This job will require a spring cleanup in landscaped areas and bushes, as well as mowing and fertilizer as needed throughout the year for the property located at 152 S. Columbia Avenue. If you’re interested and have the equipment necessary to complete the work, please contact Elijah Luebbe at [email protected] or 402-643-2961 Ext 1005.


Men’s breakfasts have started again

Men’s breakfasts have resumed on Saturday mornings at 7:00 a.m. in the Rock cafe.


Support the Guatemala mission trip with upcoming fundraisers

Did you know The Rock has 12 mission team members traveling to Guatemala in June? With high airfare prices and inflation impacting team expenses/fees in Guatemala, they could really use your support with two upcoming fundraising opportunities:

  • Ash Wednesday, February 22nd, the mission team will be hosting a nacho/taco meal from 5:30-6:30pm at The Rock before the Ash Wednesday church service at 6:30. Free will offering donations are greatly appreciated.
  • Raffle Opportunity: The team will be hosting a raffle to give away 4 MercyMe concert tickets + $50 gift certificate for dinner at the restaurant of the winner’s choice! Package valued at $250. The MercyMe concert is on March 26 at 7pm at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Seats are section 114, row 12, seats 7-10. Raffle tickets will be sold before/after church on Sundays and Ash Wednesday or by contacting a team member directly. 1 raffle ticket for $10 or 3 for $20; Drawing on March 1.

Muchas Gracias from the Guatemala Team Members: Pastor Mike Meyer, Michaela Twito, Keegan Beisel, Rachel Ada, Hannah Beintema, Emma Dannehl, Heidi and Joseph Gubanyi, Lawson Luebbe, Jen, Aubrey, and Lathan Janousek


Blue Valley Community Action

Our February item for the Blue Valley food pantry is soup, which we collect in a tub in the Rock cafe. 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. They’ve had quite a few more families making use of the pantry this winter, so your help is greatly appreciated.


YogaFaith News

Join Erika Rolf (RYT-200) or Sara Moll (RYT-200) for Christian YogaFaith classes at The Rock!  

February class offerings are as follows:  

  • Online Sonrise YogaFaith Class (online class – take anytime and as many times as you want – a new 30 Minute class is offered each month)  – 2/6 (Erika)
  •  Tune up Tuesday at CUNE (for Concordia University students) at 3:45-4:30 pm/Cattle Conference Center –  2/14 (Sara), 2/28 (Erika) FREE
  • All Level Tuesdays at 5:30 pm CST at The Rock  – 2/7, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28 (Erika)
  •  All Level Thursdays at 5:30 pm CST at The Rock  – 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, (Sara) 2/23 (Sara or Erika)
  •  Flow and Go Saturdays from 8:00-8:45 am CST at The Rock – Possible Pop Up classes (watch your e-mail and social media for dates)
  •  Restorative YogaFaith from 7:00-8:00 pm CST at The Rock – 2/5 (Sara), 2/12 (Erika), 2/19 (Erika), 2/26 (Erika)*  SIGN UP IN ADVANCE PLEASE.

Please see their Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.  https://www.facebook.com/YogaFaith-Seward-256010628294784/



Our Website | https://www.therockseward.org/

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

Vimeo | https://vimeo.com/therockseward  

YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRockSewardNebraska

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/therockseward 

Contact Us | [email protected] 

Prayer Requests | [email protected] 

Mail | PO Box 199, Seward, NE 68434

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

Rock News

Souper Sunday 2023 is almost here!

You provide the soup and desserts, we’ll provide the bowls! (And spoons, and cups, and extension cords for your slow cookers…) Please bring a soup and dessert to share for our potluck lunch after the service on February 12. If you’re not able to bring something this year, please still come for food and fellowship with us!


Men’s breakfasts to start again

Men’s breakfasts will resume on Saturday mornings at 7:00 a.m. in the Rock cafe, starting this Saturday, February 4.


New women’s Bible study opportunity

The Monday night women’s Bible Study group (led by Andrea Sloup and Sara Moll) will be starting a new 6-week study on Monday, February 27, and you are invited!  The group will meet Monday evenings from 7:00pm to 9:00 pm in Room 217 at the Rock to go through the following study: “Good Boundaries and Goodbyes: Loving others without losing the best of who you are,” by Lysa TerKeurst.  Women of all ages are welcome! After we know the total number of women joining us, we will purchase the books. One book and one study guide are needed for the study with an approximate cost of $33.50. If you have questions or want to sign up, contact Sara or Andrea. They will be in The Rock Café area after worship. You can also text them with questions or to sign up (Sara at 402-641-4200; or Andrea at 402-641-7221).


Support the Guatemala mission trip with upcoming fundraisers

Did you know The Rock has 12 mission team members traveling to Guatemala in June? With high airfare prices and inflation impacting team expenses/fees in Guatemala, they could really use your support with two upcoming fundraising opportunities:

  • Ash Wednesday, February 22nd, the mission team will be hosting a nacho/taco meal from 5:30-6:30pm at The Rock before the Ash Wednesday church service at 6:30. Free will offering donations are greatly appreciated.
  • Raffle Opportunity: The team will be hosting a raffle to give away 4 MercyMe concert tickets + $50 gift certificate for dinner at the restaurant of the winner’s choice! Package valued at $250. The MercyMe concert is on March 26 at 7pm at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln. Seats are section 114, row 12, seats 7-10. Raffle tickets will be sold before/after church on Sundays and Ash Wednesday or by contacting a team member directly. 1 raffle ticket for $10 or 3 for $20; Drawing on March 1.

Muchas Gracias from the Guatemala Team Members: Pastor Mike Meyer, Michaela Twito, Keegan Beisel, Rachel Ada, Hannah Beintema, Emma Dannehl, Heidi and Joseph Gubanyi, Lawson Luebbe, Jen, Aubrey, and Lathan Janousek


Tales of the Wag–News from Team Nico!

Many know Nicodemus or have even enjoyed a pet or two as you enter or leave worship at The Rock.  I hope to give all a connection to this unique, gentle, and wonderful ministry of Jesus’ grace to our part of His world.  Nico’s team works under the premise of invitations in serving our community.  Praise God that Nico and Team have been invited to serve in all levels of our school system, public as well Christ-centered.  Our basic weekly schedule is the Middle School on Mondays, High School on Tuesdays, Elementary School on Wednesdays, St John’s School and CDC on Thursdays, Concordia University on Fridays, and care facilities on Saturdays.  

I’m continually amazed at the many connections this ministry has allowed Nico’s team to meet, build, and grow over time. As the 2022-2023 school year started, I heard more than one fifth grader say, “I have known Nico since kindergarten.” 5 years of growth of a relationship through a pet of a dog to something gentle, something to point kids to Jesus without saying a word about Jesus, but still showing them His Grace. More about what happens “at the pet”’ at the next tale! Until then, seek and enjoy the Peace of the Lord. –Thoughts from Marcia Newsome


2022 giving statements are available

If you haven’t picked up your giving statement from the cafe area, it will be mailed to you. But we can only mail it if we have your full, current mailing address. If you don’t see your statement, check with Wayne Bruns.


Blue Valley Community Action

Our February item for the Blue Valley food pantry is soup, which we collect in a tub in the Rock cafe. 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. They’ve had quite a few more families making use of the pantry this winter, so your help is greatly appreciated.


Thanks for your support of our Building Fund initiative

“Solid through the Storm” will prepare The Rock to address facility repairs arising from this summer’s hail storm.  As shared previously, The Rock’s insurance deductible is $45,000 and total costs are still not fully known. Any funds raised beyond the storm repair costs will be held in reserve for additional facility repairs and improvements deemed ministry priorities.

Goal: $45,000 total ($36,562 has already been raised! Our goal is to raise the remaining  $8,438 by 6-30-2023)


YogaFaith News

Join Erika Rolf (RYT-200) or Sara Moll (RYT-200) for Christian YogaFaith classes at The Rock!  

February class offerings are as follows:  

  • Online Sonrise YogaFaith Class (online class – take anytime and as many times as you want – a new 30 Minute class is offered each month)  – 2/6 (Erika)
  •  Tune up Tuesday at CUNE (for Concordia University students) at 3:45-4:30 pm/Cattle Conference Center –  2/14 (Sara), 2/28 (Erika) FREE
  • All Level Tuesdays at 5:30 pm CST at The Rock  – 2/7, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28 (Erika)
  •  All Level Thursdays at 5:30 pm CST at The Rock  – 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, (Sara) 2/23 (Sara or Erika)
  •  Flow and Go Saturdays from 8:00-8:45 am CST at The Rock – Possible Pop Up classes (watch your e-mail and social media for dates)
  •  Restorative YogaFaith from 7:00-8:00 pm CST at The Rock – 2/5 (Sara), 2/12 (Erika), 2/19 (Erika), 2/26 (Erika)*  SIGN UP IN ADVANCE PLEASE.

Please see their Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.  https://www.facebook.com/YogaFaith-Seward-256010628294784/



Our Website | https://www.therockseward.org/

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

Vimeo | https://vimeo.com/therockseward  

YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRockSewardNebraska

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/therockseward 

Contact Us | [email protected] 

Prayer Requests | [email protected] 

Mail | PO Box 199, Seward, NE 68434

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

Rock News

Foster Friends sock and underwear collection

In partnership with Concordia University, we’ll be collecting new socks and underwear to donate to Foster Friends from now until January 29. Collecting  all sizes (infant to adult), for boys and girls. Look for the collection spot in the Rock cafe area. 

Those who would like to donate items (pancake syrup, noodles, hamburger helper, canned fruit, instant potatoes, new socks and underwear – all sizes – for boys/girls/teens) in support of the David City area can bring them to Weller Hall at CUNE, where there is a collection area right inside of the main front doors facing the circle.


Blue Valley Community Action

Our January item for the Blue Valley food pantry is soap and shampoo, which we collect in a tub in the Rock cafe. 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. They’ve had quite a few more families making use of the pantry this winter, so your help is greatly appreciated.


Building Fund initiative launching

“Solid through the Storm” will prepare The Rock to address facility repairs arising from this summer’s hail storm.  As shared previously, The Rock’s insurance deductible is $45,000 and total costs are still not fully known. Any funds raised beyond the storm repair costs will be held in reserve for additional facility repairs and improvements deemed ministry priorities.

Goal: $45,000 total ($25,000 raised by 12-31-22; $20,000 additional by 6-30-2023)


Life Sunday

Mark your calendars for Sun., Jan. 22 at 3 pm at St. John, Seward, for a Life Sunday event. Rev. Jeff Duncan, Assistant Director of Volunteer Relations at Lutherans for Life, will speak on this year’s Life theme of “Blessed for Life!” Light refreshments will be served.This event is  hosted by the Seward Area Lutherans for Life. Join us as we celebrate life and help our neighbor!


Valentine’s Adventure at St. Paul’s in Utica

The Kindergarten, first, and second grades at St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Utica would like to invite you to their Valentine Adventure on Wednesday, February 1. The Adventure takes place at 6:00, beginning with a windsor loin meal with all of the trimmings and concluding with a program celebrating our Greatest Valentine: God. If you are interested in attending the Adventure, please contact Kati Borchers at (402) 641-8784 for tickets. Ticket prices are as follows: Adults 11+ years $15, Children 5-11 $5 Children 4 & under free.


Nebraska Lutherans for Life essay contest

Nebraska Lutherans for Life would like to invite students in grades 6-12 who are members of a Lutheran congregation or attend a Lutheran school in Nebraska to participate in this year’s Lutherans for Life Essay Contest, based on the 2023 Conference theme: Just As … I Am with the Bible verse: “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10

One winner will be selected for grades 6-8 and one for grades 9-12.Winning entries (one from Grades 6-8 and one from Grades 9-12) will be awarded $100 each.The winning essays will be entered in the national contest.Grand Prize for the national winning entry at each level will be $250 plus free conference registration to the 2023 Conference and one night at a conference hotel. Second place national winners at each level will receive a $125 prize.

Essays should, of course, be the students’ individual, original work, but pastors, teachers, and parents are encouraged to discuss the criteria on which the essays will be judged. The same rubrics will be used at both the state and national levels. Please request a copy of the rules and rubrics from Bob Saeger, Nebraska LFL president, at [email protected]. Entries must be submitted electronically by April 1, 2023.


Walk Thru the Bible New Testament for Families 

This event will be held February 25, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Harvest Hall, located on the Seward County Fairgrounds. This event is for kids in grades 1-5 and 6th grade to adults.

  • View the flyer HERE.
  • Click HERE for more details.
  • Register HERE.

YogaFaith News

Join Erika Rolf (RYT-200) or Sara Moll (RYT-200) for Christian YogaFaith classes at The Rock!  

Class offerings are as follows:  All Level YogaFaith is on Tuesday and Thursday nights at 5:30 p.m.; Restorative YogaFaith every Sunday night at 7:00 p.m.; Flow and Go is offered twice a month on Saturday mornings from 8:00-8:45 a.m.;  and a 15-minute Sonrise YogaFaith class focuses on stretching, prayer and God’s word. Please see their Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.  https://www.facebook.com/YogaFaith-Seward-256010628294784/



Our Website | https://www.therockseward.org/

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

Vimeo | https://vimeo.com/therockseward  

YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRockSewardNebraska

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/therockseward 

Contact Us | [email protected] 

Prayer Requests | [email protected] 

Mail | PO Box 199, Seward, NE 68434

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

Rock News

See you this Wednesday!

Stepping Stones and FaithInk Wednesday evening activities will resume this week, January 11.


Foster Friends sock and underwear collection

In partnership with Concordia University, we’ll be collecting new socks and underwear to donate to Foster Friends from now until January 29. Collecting  all sizes (infant to adult), for boys and girls. Look for the collection spot in the Rock cafe area.


Blue Valley Community Action

Our January item for the Blue Valley food pantry is soap and shampoo, which we collect in a tub in the Rock cafe. 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. They’ve had quite a few more families making use of the pantry this winter, so your help is greatly appreciated.


Building Fund initiative launching

“Solid through the Storm” will prepare The Rock to address facility repairs arising from this summer’s hail storm.  As shared previously, The Rock’s insurance deductible is $45,000 and total costs are still not fully known. Any funds raised beyond the storm repair costs will be held in reserve for additional facility repairs and improvements deemed ministry priorities. 

Goal: $45,000 total ($25,000 raised by 12-31-22; $20,000 additional by 6-30-2023)


Life Sunday

Mark your calendars for Sun., Jan. 22 at 3 pm at St. John, Seward, for a Life Sunday event. Rev. Jeff Duncan, Assistant Director of Volunteer Relations at Lutherans for Life, will speak on this year’s Life theme of “Blessed for Life!” Light refreshments will be served.This event is  hosted by the Seward Area Lutherans for Life. Join us as we celebrate life and help our neighbor!


Valentine’s Adventure at St. Paul’s in Utica

The Kindergarten, first, and second grades at St. Paul’s Lutheran School in Utica would like to invite you to their Valentine Adventure on Wednesday, February 1. The Adventure takes place at 6:00, beginning with a windsor loin meal with all of the trimmings and concluding with a program celebrating our Greatest Valentine: God. If you are interested in attending the Adventure, please contact Kati Borchers at (402) 641-8784 for tickets. Ticket prices are as follows: Adults 11+ years $15, Children 5-11 $5 Children 4 & under free.


YogaFaith News

Join Erika Rolf (RYT-200) or Sara Moll (RYT-200) for Christian YogaFaith classes at The Rock!  

Class offerings are as follows:  All Level YogaFaith is on Tuesday and Thursday nights at 5:30 p.m.; Restorative YogaFaith every Sunday night at 7:00 p.m.; Flow and Go is offered twice a month on Saturday mornings from 8:00-8:45 a.m.;  and a 15-minute Sonrise YogaFaith class focuses on stretching, prayer and God’s word. Please see their Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.  https://www.facebook.com/YogaFaith-Seward-256010628294784/



Our Website | https://www.therockseward.org/

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

Vimeo | https://vimeo.com/therockseward  

YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRockSewardNebraska

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/therockseward 

Contact Us | [email protected] 

Prayer Requests | [email protected] 

Mail | PO Box 199, Seward, NE 68434

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

Rock News: No Wednesday Activities!

No Wednesday Evening Activities!

Due to the weather advisories, we will not be having Stepping Stones and FaithInk this week. Please stay home and stay warm! Wednesday evening activities will resume January 11.


Join us for our holiday services

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 5:30

Christmas Day Worship at 10:00

New Year’s Day Worship at 10:00


Our current series is Big Christmas

We hope you’re enjoying our new series, Big Christmas! CLICK HERE for each week’s handout of opportunities that you can use to share God’s Big Love during the Christmas season. Did you miss this week’s service? You can always catch up by watching the archived videos of our weekly services at THIS LINK


Building Fund initiative launching

“Solid through the Storm” will prepare The Rock to address facility repairs arising from this summer’s hail storm.  As shared previously, The Rock’s insurance deductible is $45,000 and total costs are still not fully known. Any funds raised beyond the storm repair costs will be held in reserve for additional facility repairs and improvements deemed ministry priorities. 

Goal: $45,000 total ($25,000 raised by 12-31-22; $20,000 additional by 6-30-2023)


Blue Valley Community Action

Our December item for the Blue Valley food pantry is tuna. The growing Tower of Tuna is in the Rock Cafe. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way! You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Also, they would still like more of the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes. 

Thrivent Financial contacted us to say: Please pass on our appreciation to the congregation for taking part in the November Food Shelf Challenge! We are excited to make a $500 donation to the BVCA in Seward as a generosity multiplier for your efforts! Thank you for serving the community and helping others to #LiveGenerously this holiday season.


YogaFaith News

Join Erika Rolf (RYT-200) or Sara Moll (RYT-200) for Christian YogaFaith classes at The Rock!  

Class offerings are as follows:  All Level YogaFaith is on Tuesday and Thursday nights at 5:30 p.m.; Restorative YogaFaith every Sunday night at 7:00 p.m.; Flow and Go is offered twice a month on Saturday mornings from 8:00-8:45 a.m.;  and a 15-minute Sonrise YogaFaith class focuses on stretching, prayer and God’s word. Please see their Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.  https://www.facebook.com/YogaFaith-Seward-256010628294784/



Our Website | https://www.therockseward.org/

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

Vimeo | https://vimeo.com/therockseward  

YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRockSewardNebraska

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/therockseward 

Contact Us | [email protected] 

Prayer Requests | [email protected] 

Mail | PO Box 199, Seward, NE 68434

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

Rock News: Bell Ringers Needed!

Volunteers needed Friday!

Salvation Army bell ringers are needed at Wal-Mart this Friday, December 9, from 4:00pm—9:00pm…Sign up for an hour shift…ring as a family…as a group of friends…as an individual. Email Danna Seevers  if you are willing to help at [email protected].


Our current series is Big Christmas

We hope you’re enjoying our new series, Big Christmas! CLICK HERE for each week’s handout of opportunities that you can use to share God’s Big Love during the Christmas season. Did you miss this week’s service? You can always catch up by watching the archived videos of our weekly services at THIS LINK


Big Holiday Meal

Join us after the service next Sunday, December 11, for our Big Holiday Meal! We’ll have turkeys and all of the traditional sides. We want you to bring the desserts to share! All of our Concordia students are encouraged to join us as guests, and let us treat you to this Big Holiday Meal!


Building Fund initiative launching

 “Solid through the Storm” will prepare The Rock to address facility repairs arising from this summer’s hail storm.  As shared previously, The Rock’s insurance deductible is $45,000 and total costs are still not fully known. Any funds raised beyond the storm repair costs will be held in reserve for additional facility repairs and improvements deemed ministry priorities.

Goal: $45,000 total ($25,000 raised by 12-31-22; $20,000 additional by 6-30-2023)


Breakfast in Bethlehem at St. John, Seward

All are invited to Breakfast at Bethlehem at St. John in Seward on Saturday, December 10 from 8-11 (breakfast served until 10:30). Enjoy breakfast, witness a live nativity, hear the Christmas story, take a family photo, create a Christmas ornament. Pre-registration is appreciated, but not required. CLICK HERE to register.


Blue Valley Community Action

Thanks to the forever family who gathered 616 hygiene items to bless Blue Valley Community Action in our Give Thanks and Give Back November challenge. Since we successfully hit our target of 500 items, the collection drive will be supplemented with a Generosity Multiplier Gift for BVCA, courtesy of the Thrivent Member Network – Nebraska Region.

Our December item for the Blue Valley food pantry is tuna. The growing Tower of Tuna is in the Rock Cafe. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way! You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Also, they would still like more of the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes. 


YogaFaith News

Join Erika Rolf (RYT-200) or Sara Moll (RYT-200) for Christian YogaFaith classes at The Rock!  

Class offerings are as follows:  All Level YogaFaith is on Tuesday and Thursday nights at 5:30 p.m.; Restorative YogaFaith every Sunday night at 7:00 p.m.; Flow and Go is offered twice a month on Saturday mornings from 8:00-8:45 a.m.;  and a 15-minute Sonrise YogaFaith class focuses on stretching, prayer and God’s word. Please see their Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.  https://www.facebook.com/YogaFaith-Seward-256010628294784/



Our Website | https://www.therockseward.org/

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

Vimeo | https://vimeo.com/therockseward  

YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRockSewardNebraska

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/therockseward 

Contact Us | [email protected] 

Prayer Requests | [email protected] 

Mail | PO Box 199, Seward, NE 68434

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

Rock News

Prayer Service for Betty Menze

Please pray for the family of Betty Menze, who passed away this week. The forever family of the Rock is invited to attend a prayer service on Monday, December 5 at 7:30 PM at Zabka Funeral Home, 410 Jackson, Seward. Pastor Mike Meyer will be officiating the service. You can read Betty’s obituary AT THIS LINK.


Our current series is Big Christmas

We hope you’re enjoying our new series, Big Christmas! Last week we were reminded that people all around us have Big Problems that can only be solved by a Big God. And he chooses to help them through us. CLICK HERE for our week 1 opportunities that you can use to share God’s Big Love during the Christmas season. Did you miss this week’s service? You can always catch up by watching the archived videos of our weekly services at THIS LINK


Big Holiday Meal

Join us after the service next Sunday, December 11, for our Big Holiday Meal! We’ll have turkeys and all of the traditional sides. We want you to bring the desserts to share! All of our Concordia students are encouraged to join us as guests, and let us treat you to this Big Holiday Meal!


Bell Ringers Needed

Salvation Army bell ringers are needed at WalMart, Friday, December 9, from 4:00pm—9:00pm…Sign up for an hour shift…ring as a family…as a group of friends…as an individual.  Sign-up sheet is in the Rock Café.


Building Fund initiative launching

“Solid through the Storm” will prepare The Rock to address facility repairs arising from this summer’s hail storm.  As shared previously, The Rock’s insurance deductible is $45,000 and total costs are still not fully known. Any funds raised beyond the storm repair costs will be held in reserve for additional facility repairs and improvements deemed ministry priorities.

Goal: $45,000 total ($25,000 raised by 12-31-22; $20,000 additional by 6-30-2023)


Breakfast in Bethlehem at St. John, Seward

All are invited to Breakfast at Bethlehem at St. John in Seward on Saturday, December 10 from 8-11 (breakfast served until 10:30). Enjoy breakfast, witness a live nativity, hear the Christmas story, take a family photo, create a Christmas ornament. Pre-registration is appreciated, but not required. CLICK HERE to register.


Blue Valley Community Action

Thanks to all in the forever family who gathered more than 600 hygiene items to bless Blue Valley Community Action in our Give Thanks and Give Back November challenge. Since we successfully hit our target of 500 items, the collection drive will be supplemented with a Generosity Multiplier Gift for BVCA, courtesy of the Thrivent Member Network – Nebraska Region.

Our December item for the Blue Valley food pantry is tuna. The collection box is in the Rock Cafe. Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way! You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website. Also, they would still like more of the following: pasta, pasta meal mixes, instant potato side dishes, and mashed potatoes. 


YogaFaith News

Join Erika Rolf (RYT-200) or Sara Moll (RYT-200) for Christian YogaFaith classes at The Rock!  

Class offerings are as follows:  All Level YogaFaith is on Tuesday and Thursday nights at 5:30 p.m.; Restorative YogaFaith every Sunday night at 7:00 p.m.; Flow and Go is offered twice a month on Saturday mornings from 8:00-8:45 a.m.;  and a 15-minute Sonrise YogaFaith class focuses on stretching, prayer and God’s word. Please see their Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.  https://www.facebook.com/YogaFaith-Seward-256010628294784/



Our Website | https://www.therockseward.org/

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

Vimeo | https://vimeo.com/therockseward  

YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRockSewardNebraska

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/therockseward 

Contact Us | [email protected] 

Prayer Requests | [email protected] 

Mail | PO Box 199, Seward, NE 68434

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

Rock News: Happy Thanksgiving!

This November we will be collecting 500 hygiene items for Blue Valley Community Action’s food pantry.  We are currently at 284 items and need to reach 500 by Wednesday, November 30. Thank you for your generosity!

If we can successfully collect 500 hygiene items between November 1-30, then the collection will be supplemented with a Generosity Multiplier Gift, a grant of $500, courtesy of the Thrivent Member Network – Nebraska Region, gifted to Blue Valley Community Action. 

We are collecting feminine products, toothbrushes, shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, baby wipes, and diapers. You can put all of this in the usual collection tote in the Rock Cafe area on Sundays or send them with your kids to Stepping Stones and FaithInk. Let’s Give Thanks and Give Back this November!

Thanks for being a blessing to the community in this way! You can see our Blue Valley Pantry item schedule on our website


Work Day this Sunday: Will you help?

This Sunday, November 27th, willing hands are needed to put up the Nativity Scene after our worship gathering (11:30-ish). The weather looks favorable and, with a good group, the entire process will take about an hour.

  • The task: carry and then arrange plywood nativity characters on the front lawn, then secure them with wires and metal stakes using a large hammer
  • Helpful items: gloves and, if you are the “pounder,” ear protection; bring large hammer if you have one
  • First 10 volunteers: If you email [email protected] or text him at 402-641-5553 to volunteer, he will order a box lunch for you. Thank you!

Building Fund initiative launching 

“Solid through the Storm” will prepare The Rock to address facility repairs arising from this summer’s hail storm.  As shared previously, The Rock’s insurance deductible is $45,000 and total costs are still not fully known. Any funds raised beyond the storm repair costs will be held in reserve for additional facility repairs and improvements deemed ministry priorities. 

Goal: $45,000 total ($25,000 raised by 12-31-22; $20,000 additional by 6-30-2023)


Breakfast in Bethlehem at St. John, Seward

All are invited to Breakfast at Bethlehem at St. John in Seward on Saturday, December 10 from 8-11 (breakfast served until 10:30). Enjoy breakfast, witness a live nativity, hear the Christmas story, take a family photo, create a Christmas ornament. Pre-registration is appreciated, but not required. CLICK HERE to register.


Apple Dip Recipe

Many people asked for the apple dip recipe at our latest potluck meal. You can find it below! 


Plan now for holiday services

  • Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 5:30
  • Christmas Day Worship at 10:00
  • New Year’s Day Worship at 10:00

YogaFaith News

Join Erika Rolf (RYT-200) or Sara Moll (RYT-200) for Christian YogaFaith classes at The Rock!  

No classes this Thursday or Sunday

Class offerings are as follows:  All Level YogaFaith is on Tuesday and Thursday nights at 5:30 p.m.; Restorative YogaFaith every Sunday night at 7:00 p.m.; Flow and Go is offered twice a month on Saturday mornings from 8:00-8:45 a.m.;  and a 15-minute Sonrise YogaFaith class focuses on stretching, prayer and God’s word. Please see their Facebook page for a full calendar and more information.  https://www.facebook.com/YogaFaith-Seward-256010628294784/



Our Website | https://www.therockseward.org/

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

Vimeo | https://vimeo.com/therockseward  

YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRockSewardNebraska

Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/therockseward 

Contact Us | [email protected] 

Prayer Requests | [email protected] 

Mail | PO Box 199, Seward, NE 68434

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