Senior Adult Ministry

Numerous events are held at First Lutheran throughout the year specifically designed for senior adults including OWLS Luncheon, Faithful Aging Milestone activities, and more. Pastoral care and visitation are also offered to homebound members and those in nursing homes or the hospital.

OWLs Luncheons

OWLS (older, wiser Lutheran seniors) luncheons are held the fourth Tuesday of each month at 11:30 a.m. in the Gathering Room. All “OWLS” are invited for lunch and a program to follow.

Program Schedule

  • June: Barney Brandenburg, speaking on behalf of the ELCA Task Force

  • July: technology lessons with Mason Van Essen

  • August: Sarah Stenson, Luther House of Study

  • September: Deacon Adrianne Gray, Diaconal Ministry Program

  • October: Siouxland Renaissance Association presents "The Wives of Henry VIII"

  • November: Lucas Hamilton from Augustana University presenting on aging gracefully and comfortably

  • December: no luncheon

  • January 2026: Jeff Schmitt presenting his slideshow "Memories of Sioux Falls"

  • February 2026: Betsy Schuster from Active Generations

  • March 2026: therapy dogs (details not yet confirmed)

  • April 2026: Harmony Sioux Falls

  • May 2026: City of Sioux Falls presenting art things in the city

  • June 2026: City Planning Commission presenting on Sioux Falls Transit

  • August 2026: Michele Erpenbach from Sioux Falls Thrive

  • October 2026: Sarah McGowan from St. Croix Hospice

NURSING HOME AND HOMEBOUND VISITS

Visitation pastors make monthly visits to those who are homebound and to nursing home residents, providing Holy Communion and devotional time. Twice a year, the pastors conduct worship in nine local care centers. If you become aware of a homebound member who is not receiving regular visitation, contact Bev Bentzinger or call the church.

HOSPITAL VISITATION

The pastoral care staff maintains regular contact with the hospitalized and the recuperating. Visits are made to Avera McKennan Hospital, Avera Heart Hospital, Sanford Health Hospital, and hospice locations each weekday and other times as necessary. If you know of a member or friend of First Lutheran who enters the hospital through emergency services, contact Bev Bentzinger or call the Church.

EMERGENCIES

In times of emergency, please call the church office Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at (605) 336-3734. For evening, weekend, and holiday emergencies, a pastor is on-call at (605) 863-1739.