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Linda Elbert first visited Advent when she was a child visiting her grandparents who had joined Advent in the late 1960s. When she and Steve were dating they both remember sitting on folding chairs while worshiping in the old sanctuary.
In 1984, the Elberts moved to the cities; it was natural for them to attend church at Advent with Linda’s Grandma, Inga Enger. They have special memories of worshiping with her and joined Advent in 1985. Their children, Kayla and Grant, grew up here and participated in church school, confirmation, and youth programs. Now both adults, Grant lives in Minneapolis while Kayla lives in Katy, Texas with her husband and two sons. Steve and Linda split their time between homes in Minnesota and Texas.
Steve and Linda appreciate the sermons, music, adult education, and the people at Advent. “I feel fulfilled when I’ve been to church.” Linda stated, “It fills my soul.” They both value the friends they have made through the years at Advent and enjoy making new connections during fellowship time. They are thankful for LuAnn who goes above and beyond in creating a space for connections to happen. They are amazed at her dedication to Advent.
Linda and Steve know volunteering is important for the growth of a church. Linda has taught church school, chaperoned youth trips, served communion, has been on the church council, the endowment board, and more. She and her daughter, Kayla, played in the bell choir together. Steve and Linda both ushered for decades and worked with the youth by hosting groups at their home and working with the Dinner Theatre youth fundraiser.
Steve produced and directed video projects for both the 25th and 50th Advent Anniversary celebrations and also five All Saints’ Day videos. These projects were a labor of love that included Linda and many other volunteers from Advent. Linda and Steve traveled with others to Gooseberry Falls, Glenwood, and other locations to create these powerful and inspiring videos. Linda even wrote the lyrics to the song “The Journey of Our Faith” which was a part of the 25th Anniversary video.
Linda shared how important the connections at church are for people of all ages. She remembers the Sunday evening service called The Word that was led by Jacqui Thone and JC Lippold. This service was intergenerational with youth outnumbering the adults. “The love and acceptance that happened there between the kids was so magical and heartwarming!”
The Elberts know that supporting Advent financially is essential. They discussed how it costs money to have a church, keep the property strong, and hire good staff. They appreciate how we help our local community and beyond and are pleased that we already fulfilled our pledge to the Synod this year. It takes everyone to make the church run smoothly.
Our church thrives because of the kindness and benevolence of our members. Thank you to all the people of Advent. Your generosity makes it possible for us to grow in our faith while making important connections with each other.
