What’s happening:
What’s happening:
Class: The Parable of Jesus - The Radical Teachings of a Young Rabbi - Sept. 22
The Parables of Jesus: The Radical Teachings of a Young Rabbi
A 6-Week Class with Dr. Ryan Braley
Jesus didn’t simply tell memorable stories—He used parables to challenge assumptions, overturn expectations, and invite people into an entirely new way of seeing God, themselves, and the world. His teachings were often surprising, unsettling, and deeply transformative.
Join Dr. Ryan Braley for this six-week journey through some of Jesus’ most powerful parables. Together, we’ll discover how this young Rabbi’s words challenged the religious and cultural norms of His day—and why they continue to challenge and transform our lives today.
- Dates: 6-week journey. Tuesdays, September 22-October 27
- Time: 6:00-9:00 PM
- Location: Student Room at Central Lutheran Church
- Cost: Free!
Mexico Mission Coffee Fundraiser - Order by Sept. 25
Help send our team from Central to Mazatlán, Mexico for our Winter 2027 mission trip!
Proceeds from every purchase directly support our team members participating in this fundraiser.
- The Coffee: Premium 12oz bags for $15.00. Small-batch roasted right here in Minnesota and ground fresh to order!
- How to Buy: Order using this form below, or visit our team’s table in the lobby on Sunday, September 13 & 20.
- Pick-up Details: Orders placed online or in the lobby will be available for pickup on Sunday, October 11 during morning services (8:30 AM – 11:00 AM).
Don’t drink coffee but still want to support the trip?
Use the donation option at the bottom of the form! Any amount makes a huge difference for our team.
The Alpha Course - 11 weeks starting Sept. 29
Alpha is an evening to explore conversations about life, faith, and meaning in an open and honest way. The night will include a meal together, videos, and teachings with Peter Deusterman, followed by small group discussion.
We will explore topics such as: Who is Jesus? How Can I Have Faith? Why and How Should I Pray? Why and How Should I Read the Bible? How Does God Guide Us?
DATES: Tuesday Nights for 11 weeks
Sept. 29, Oct. 6, Oct. 13, Oct. 20, Oct. 27, Nov. 3, Nov. 10, Nov. 17, Nov. 24, Dec. 1, Dec. 8
WHEN: 5:30-7:45 PM – dinner, video, and small group discussion
COST: $20 per person (include materials)
*childcare is available upon request on the registration form
*Register by Monday, September 21
Have questions? Contact Peter Deusterman, Director of Life Groups, at peter.deusterman@clcelkriver.org
SHE Fall Retreat: Thy Will - Oct. 23-25
SHE Fall Retreat
Theme: Thy Will
Join us for a meaningful and joy-filled weekend away with women — a time for worship, laughter, friendship, and renewal — all set in the beautiful and peaceful surroundings of Mt. Carmel in Alexandria.
Whether you come with friends or come on your own, this retreat is designed to help you slow down, reconnect with God, and build relationships with other women in a welcoming, grace-filled environment.
Dates: October 23–25, 2026
Location: Mt. Carmel, Alexandria
Registration Pricing
• Register by May 1 — Early, Early Bird: $210
• Register by August 1 — Early Bird: $250
• Register by October 1 — Regular Price: $275
Retreat Fee Includes
• Two-night stay (two-bed lodging)
• Register with a roommate, or we will match you with one
• 4 meals total:
– Saturday: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
– Sunday: Breakfast
• Crafts, activities, and snacks throughout the weekend
Keynote Speaker: Lorraine Daly