LCMS World Mission Blog

Rosemary Sternbeck serves on the LAMP U.S. ministry staff in Neah Bay, Wash. She writes, “The Morning Star Girls Club had many plans and goals set to be completed by the end of the school year. One major goal was to put on a mother-daughter tea. A conference room was rented. Invitations were made and sent out. China was unboxed and washed. Songs and dances were practiced. The girls worked to finish sewing aprons, pajama bottoms, dance aprons, pillowcases, shoulder bags, and embellish tee shirts and jeans for the fashion show. Decorations for the tables and favors for each guest were made. Marla worked with girls who wanted to participate in a skit. Terry spent time in the kitchen each day with the girls making wonderful things to be eaten at the tea. Every inch of the church was a flurry of activity. Almost every night we stayed up late planning for the next day. The day of the event arrived.

“The tables were beautifully set for 45 people. The quilt that the girls had made was displayed. There was ample food for all of the guests. There was plenty of hot water for the tea pots. All of the girls’ sewing projects were finished and hanging in place for the fashion show. Girls were comfortable with their parts in the skit. We felt like our songs and dances had come together. Fifteen girls participated. They girls did a wonderful job serving tables, modeling their projects, doing their skit, singing, and enjoying the presence of their families and guests.

“Looking back after a little rest, I can see more clearly all that the girls have accomplished and how they have grown. This year, we have been studying the Ten Commandments and the difference between Law and Gospel. More than anything, I want each girl to know how much they are loved by the Father and Jesus who died for them. I want them to know they will never be alone. I want them to know Jesus is at the right hand of the Father cheering for them. I want them to know the Holy Spirit is able to help them in every circumstance each day. I want them to know the Body of Christ is praying for them. I want them to know God has a special plan for each of their lives.

“On July 13, two of the girls from the Morning Star Club were led by the Holy Spirit to be baptized in the Soo-yess River. It was a beautiful service with a dinner afterwards at the church for the girls, family, and friends. It was a reminder to me that God will accomplish His perfect will in His own time. And like the Martha of the Scriptures, I can take comfort in knowing I am not saved by anything I can do, but by what Jesus has already done.”