bethel march mn
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ethel Banner March 2012TRANSCRIPT
Bethel Lutheran Church
1321 North Avenue Northfield, MN 55057 507.786.6674
www.facebook.com/bethellutheran
http://bethelnorthfield.org/bethel-banner-newsletter/
Adult Ed 14
Befrienders 18
BWHF 5
Calendar 10
Children 4
Council 8
Finance 8-9
Help Wanted 2
Library 18
Living Faith 15
Mission & Justice 12
Mission Interpr. 13
Nursery 7
Scrip 15
Thank You 19
Worship Servants 16
YouthQuake 6
YES 7
Inside this issue:
The Bethel Banner
The Bethel Banner
The Bethel Banner
The Bethel Banner
Volume #488 March 2012
… and much more!
Be a Hero! Fight Hunger! half the food distributed annually through 300 food shelves across the state.
Each week, watch as the YES team searches for the true meaning of a becoming “Hero”. You'll see what it means to earn the “Heart of a Hero” as you set a goal with your family to fight against hunger.
We hope you join us in serving God’s call to help our neighbors in need.
The March Food Drive is here again! Throughout the month of March, the Bethel YES Team (Youth Energized to Serve) will join forces with the congregation in working towards the challenge of raising 12,000 pounds and dollars to be donated to the Northfield Food Shelf. This is the 30th year for the Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign which raises more than
Lent 2012
Lenten Soup - A Simple Meal Wednesdays, through March 28 – Midweek Lenten Services at 11:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. with soup at noon and 5:30 p.m. Pastors Warren Broughton, Chuck Gunderson, John Dragelin, Curt Johnson, and Clark Cary will be leading the 11:30 a.m. worship services; Pastor Tim and Pastor Charlie will lead evening vespers.
During the season of Lent it has been Bethel’s tradition for MANY years to share a simple meal of bread and soup. I know we are all used to the fabulous Bistro meals on Wednesdays with all the trimmings so why not just continue with that? Lent is a simpler time. A time to reflect, repent, perhaps give up some of our luxuries as we journey towards Holy Week. Bread and soup are a simple, symbolic way to do this. In all honesty, the soups are always delicious and the bread is freshly made so it isn’t so much of a hardship, but it is certainly not the meal we are used to with salads, main courses, and those yummy desserts. The proceeds of soup meals (yes meals, as we serve at both noon and 5:30 on Wednesdays starting on February 29 and running through Holy Week) go to cover the food cost with any remaining profit given to the Northfield FoodShelf as a donation. Look for brochure about Lent at Bethel on the Welcome Stations or on our website for more details!
The Two L's: Locks and Lights! If you are part of a group meeting at Bethel in the evenings or on the weekends, please make sure that all outside doors are closed and locked before you leave the building. Bethel has experienced several significant thefts in recent years; anything we can do to secure our building is much appreciated!
Did you know that 111 Bethel households have pledged to turn off the lights when leaving a room or area in their home through the MN Energy Challenge? Awesome! Now we need to take the same responsible step at church. Too many lights get left on when folks leave a room. Let's put our care for creation to work by "flipping the switch." In one household, $14 can be saved annually by flipping the switch. Imagine what we could save at Bethel!
When needs from the community (via police, social worker, etc.) are
communicated to Pastor Tim, Pastor Charlie, or Pam Santerre this fund is the source of hope and help. Our Pastoral Care Team frequently gets requests for help with food, gasoline, rent, utilities, or some other one-time financial assistance. With continuing financial needs, the Good Samaritan Fund is running low. Please help by making a donation NOW.
Simply prepare a check and write Good Samaritan Fund on the memo line. You may place it in the offering basket or get it to Gloria West. Please think in amounts of $20, $25, $50 or more. We need to add about $1,000 so as to restore the fund to a satisfactory level.
The Bethel Community has a reputation of being generous in sharing. There should be no delay to help when a person is hungry or their family needs shelter or their children need clothing. As the old sea captain knew, no act of mercy is ever insignificant. Please support the Good Samaritan Fund now! Thank you for all you give.
~ Noel Stratmoen, Steward
Consider this illustration. An old sea captain retired to a cottage on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. His neighbors noticed that often following the receding tide, he would walk the hard sand and stoop to pick up stranded starfish and toss them back into the ocean. His neighbor reminded him that with the millions of miles of ocean shoreline and the millions and millions of stranded starfish, his every act of mercy was very insignificant. His reply? “It is not insignificant to the starfish I just tossed back in the ocean”.
We might consider our support of the Good Samaritan Fund from the perspective of the old sea captain. While some say the economic recovery is in progress, we know that is not true for everyone. No job! Unreliable transportation! No money for even the basics! Perhaps a health issue! For some of us, a tough decision may be, “Do I buy another coat or another TV.” But for some, their tough decision may be “Do I buy food to survive another day, or do I buy gasoline so I can look for work?”
The Good Samaritan Fund is money contributed by you to Bethel Lutheran Church to help our neighbors in a desperate situation. It is financially separate from our general budget; however, Bethel’s church accountant documents the contributions and the disbursements.
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Waage and Myrna Johnson will be Bethel's representatives to the Lutheran Home of the Cannon Valley (NRC).
Chuck Sandstrom was recognized for his many years of service on the Finance Committee as he ends his tenure with that group.
The Annual Meeting of the Congregation took place on Sunday, January 29, and packed a lot of action into 35 brief minutes
The congregation voted to modify Bethel's by-laws, adding one more at-large member, bringing the total of at-large members to three, and bringing the terms of all Council members to three years. By approving this modification, three members of Council will be up for election every year.
Pat Stahly will be taking over for Jerry Olson, who resigned earlier this year. Scott Stark was reelected to a second at-large term. He will be joined by Ryan Blumhoefer and Jan Stark, new at-large members. Ryan will be heading up the Church Council's efforts to update our constitution. If you wish to serve on this committee with Ryan, please contact the church office.
Bonnie Liebelt will be serving on the Nominating Committee. Curt & Ruth Johnson and Noel & Lois Stratmoen will serve as Bethels representatives to the Cannon River Conference. Muriel
Did You Miss Bethel's Annual Meeting 2012?
The congregation passed a budget of $873,934 for 2012 which means the average weekly gift per household will need to be roughly $36.
Complete minutes of the meeting will be approved at the 2013 Annual Meeting. For a copy of the Annual Report, contact the church office.
Help Wanted! Our long-time custodian, Mike Graff, has resigned from his position for a new job with
Benjamin Bus. Many thanks for your service to Bethel, Mike, and best wishes for your next adventure!
If you are interested in working for Bethel part-time as a custodian, please pick up an application in the church office. Applications must be received by March 2.
For more information, contact Blair Fowler, Bethel Trustee.
Be a Good Samaritan
personal effort into your faith relationship in order to draw yourself closer to God.
As a hearer of the gospel, this grates in my ears because the heart of the Christian gospel is that in Jesus, God has drawn intimately close to you - not the other way around.
Thus, I love the characterization of Lent as “falling into the river” (or over the side of the boat) into God’s love and life which has come close to you in Christ. It communicates that Lent is a time to splash, to repent from old wanderings and revisit the depths of who God is and what God has done for you.
This year at Bethel our Lenten theme focuses around the Shema, Hebrew for “hear”, which recalls verses in Deuteronomy 6:4-9 reading, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone. You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, (with all your
March 2012 Page 3
Friends in Christ,
There is a classic Ruud family story which my dad and I love to relive and tell about a time when we were fishing together and I hooked into a feisty northern pike and wrestled it to the boat only for the lively fish to suddenly dive and pull my 7-year-old frame right over the side of the boat and into the lake.
It came to mind as I read Pastor David L. Miller’s article in the February edition of The Lutheran magazine focusing on the season of Lent. He proposed approaching Lent as “falling into the river” of God’s life, love, and mercy.
I like that description because I’ve often encountered Lent in a negative way. The message has too often sounded like, “you’d better shape up” or “you need to be better for God,” and it is often articulated as a mandate for you to try harder or to put more
mind,) and with all your strength.”
Around this theme, Bethel will conduct Wednesday worships with soup dinner throughout Lent at both 11 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. focusing on different aspects – heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Added to this, we will host theologian and professor, Dorothy Bass, as a guest preacher and adult forum leader on Sunday, February 26. Prof. Bass specializes in how the Christian life is formed, lived out, and practiced every day. In connection to her visit, Sunday adult forums in the sanctuary throughout Lent will feature Bethel members speaking about their encounter with Christ in and throughout their lives.
I hope you take advantage of some or all of these opportunities as it promises to be a good way to fall into God’s river flowing in your life. How might God be yearning to pull you into the waters of Christ’s love and mercy this Lent, and what new depths will you discover of God drawing near to you?!
In God’s waters,
From the Associate Pastor...
Welcome to Our Newest Members Shirley Payne
Arlys Kreis
Kevin and Becky Johnson, Annika (15), Noah (13) and Isak (8)
Dan Hofrenning and Theo (17) and Gabe (14)
TORCH, the graduation rate of Latino students went from 36% to 90% in only four years. TORCH receives no funding from the Northfield School District although the school district is appreciative of TORCH.
The Mission of Hope Center is to "create zero tolerance for sexual and domestic violence through Healthy, Outreach, Prevention, and Education." This center offers direct support to victims of violence in Rice County, collaborative support to other organizations that serve victims, and educational support to the entire community.
Please take time during Lent to prayerfully consider your Easter gift, and pray for the recipient organizations. Thank you for all that you give!
Your Easter offering will be used to do local work for Christ's Kingdom. Half of this year's Easter offering will go the Rice County chapter of Habitat for Humanity. The other half will be divided equally between the TORCH program in Northfield and Hope Center in Faribault.
The TORCH (Tackling Obstacles and Raising College Hopes) program began in 2004. This organization works to raise the academic levels of Northfield students from low income families who have had no experiences with colleges. Through TORCH, students are able to attend academic camps on college campuses and learn to plan for brighter futures by concentrating on taking rigorous academic courses which prepare them for college. Among its other successes, with the help of
Your Easter Offering
this, please contact the church office right away.
Good Earth Village On the Road is Coming Back to Northfield! GEV On the Road, August 5-9, is a 5-day program for children who have completed Kindergarten through 4th grade. It brings the fun of camp to the camper and provides a great, Christ-centered week filled with games, worship, crafts, Bible study, and singing. Registration for GEV On the Road is done through Good Earth Village. Campers can register by completing an online form or downloading and printing the form at www.GoodEarthVillage.org. Questions? Contact Good Earth Village at 507-346-2494 or [email protected]. Forms are also available at the Bethel church
4th Grade Holy Worship Retreat – Sunday, March 4, Noon-5 p.m. – Please return your
registration form today, if you have not already done so. If you have a 4th grader who did not receive a mailing on
Page 4 The Bethel Banner
showed their love for God that day with their heart. Here are some ideas for each word:
Heart – Love God by showing the following to another person – kindness, caring, compassion, peacemaking, helping, forgiveness, patience, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, self-control, loyalty.
Soul – Love God by nurturing your faith and thus strengthening your soul – pray, read the Bible, worship, serve others, go to Sunday School, talk about faith with another.
Mind – Love God by using your brain – read, study, explore in all areas of learning and then think about how God wants you to use your knowledge. How does your love for God influence what you do with the knowledge you have?
You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart and soul and mind and strength. Deuteronomy 6:5.
This verse, often called the Shema, is our Lenten theme. Each week between now and Easter during BAM we will be focusing on one of the aspects of this verse. March 7 – Heart, March 14 – Soul, March 21 – Spring Break No BAM, March 28 – Mind, April 4 – Strength.
Why not keep these words before you and your family by posting a paper with the word of the week on your refrigerator or family bulletin board? Each day during your family, devotion, or meal time include an opportunity to share how each person showed their love for God with the word of the week. For example during the week of March 4-10, have each person share specific circumstances of how they
Strength – Love God by using your body to help others – hold the door for someone, help clean up the classroom, your home, or a friend’s room, do a favor for someone without being asked, pick up trash when you see it on the street or in your neighborhood.
Deuteronomy 6 goes on in verses 7-9 to say, Repeat these commands (to love God with heart, soul, mind, and strength) again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them on your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
May God guide you on your Lenten journey to use your heart, soul, mind, and strength to show your love for Him.
Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries
786-8878
Children’s Ministry Update
Church and Home Ministry ~ Partners in Faith By Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries
office but must be mailed into Good Earth Village. All campers must pre-register and space is limited, so please be sure to register as early as possible to insure your spot.
Pre-School Vacation Bible School will be held the same week as GEV On The Road – August 6-9. This experience is open to children who will be 4 years old by September 1, 2012, through those who have completed kindergarten in the spring of 2012. Registration information and details will be available in the Bethel Children’s Ministry Road Map that will be mailed out in late April.
Handbell Concert The St. Olaf Handbell Choir, directed by Bethel member Jill Mahr, will conclude their winter tour with a home concert on Monday, March 5, at 8:15 p.m., in Urness Recital Hall on the St. Olaf campus.
All are welcome!
Bethel Garage Sale. Sign-ups for both events are on the information table.
There's still time to join a fun senior bowling group! Come to Jesse James Lanes on Tuesdays at 2 p.m., through March 27. Just show up or contact Henry Mueller at 663-0143 if you have questions.
Sorenson (663-0503), [email protected].
The Monthly Senior Coffee folks will gather on March 5 in the
CLC. Bring some treats and enjoy relaxing fellowship with Bethel friends!
Remember! The deadline for the April issue of the Banner is March 15. If you would like to be added to the submission reminder email list, contact Lisa at [email protected]. Thanks!
Bethel Women Having Fun ~ On Tuesday, March 20, we visit the Minnesota State Capitol in St. Paul, leaving Bethel at 8:45, touring the beautiful Capitol building at 10 a.m. and have lunch at 11:30 a.m. at either the Department of Transportation or at the Centennial Building cafeterias. Because parking is such a problem, we will be taking a 31-passenger bus. The charge for the bus depends upon how many go. The minimum is $15. In April, BWHF will take a trip to the fabulous Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis to see the play Time Stands Still on Wednesday, April 25, at 1 p.m. Before the performance, we will dine at the Level Five Café. The cost for this trip including play and lunch is $46 payable to Lu Lindstrom before March 20. May will find us working at the
Calling all families with children ages 11 and younger! Join us for a Family Beach Night Festival on Friday, March 2, 6-
8:30 p.m., in the Youth Room and Center Pod. Wear your best beach attire! The cost is $5/child with a $10/family maximum. All proceeds will go toward Easter meals for those in need in Northfield, a project of Bethel’s 7th Graders. The fun will include beach ball volleyball, limbo, a game table, crafts, a bake sale, and much more. Plus there will be a movie with popcorn starting at 7 p.m. For more information, contact Kristin Kivell.
It's easier to believe this year than most — spring is truly around the corner, and it will soon be time for plants and flowers! The Bethel Youth Flower Sale has begun. Look for the table in the narthex through Sunday, March 18. Please stop by to place your order or contact one of our current 8th through 12th graders and place your order with them. All of the proceeds will go toward their summer trips. The last day to order will be Sunday, March 18. Delivery will be on Saturday, May 12. Any questions? Please contact Karen Adams (663-0254), [email protected] or Krista
Bethel Women Having Fun
Bethel News
March 2012 Page 5
All Bethel women are invited to join in the fun with this traveling monthly fellowship group!
Tuesday, March 20 - State Capitol, St. Paul
Tuesday or Wednesday, April 17 or 18, Theater (TBA)
May - No event (working on the Garage Sale)
Tuesday, June 19 - Lakewood Cemetery, Minneapolis
Tuesday, July 17 - Boat Ride
Tuesday, August 21 - Potluck at Judy Code’s house
Palm Sunday, April 1, Worship with Procession of Palms at 8:30 and 10:45 a.m., with Sunday School for all ages at 9:45 a.m.
Maundy Thursday, April 5, 7 p.m., worship with foot washing
Good Friday, April 6, worship at 11:30 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Easter Vigil, April 7, worship at 7:30 p.m. at Boe Chapel
Easter Sunday, April 8, worship at 8, 9:15, and 10:45 a.m. Coffee in the Youth Room between services, and Easter Dinner at noon
Find the Lent 2012 brochure at the Welcome Stations for more information.
Holy Week 2012
congregation and it gives Ruth and her crew a break during the season of Lent. If you’re available to help during any of these shifts, please sign up at the information station in the Bethel Youth Center or call or email Barb Farmer. Thanks, in advance, for your time!
Hi League will meet at 7 p.m. after Lent Vespers on the 14th of this month. Come join us for fun, relaxation, and faith talk in the Bethel Youth Center.
Summer trippers ~ Please remember - March 15 is your next payment date. Financial recaps were sent in the mail to all youth who are participating in a summer trip. The recaps give information about earnings from fundraisers, future fundraisers,
Confirmation classes will continue into Lent, with the final class of the year the week before spring break - Wednesday, March 14. We will celebrate the end of the Confirmation year with ice cream sundaes in the Youth Center at the end of class (about 7:55). Plan to stay until 8:30 p.m. for this celebration! Parents, if you have been a small group leader at any time during this school year, please join us for this event. We will also need some parents to help with set-up and serving the sundaes. If you’re available to help, please contact Barb Farmer.
Youth Soup Supper ~ The Bethel youth and families have been asked to serve one of the soup suppers during Lent. The date we’ve been assigned is Wednesday, March 14. We’ll need youth & parent volunteers for four shifts ~ 10 a.m.–noon (parents) - Cooking and serving noon meal 4–5:30 p.m. - Cooking 5–6:30 p.m. - Set up and serving 6 p.m.–finish - Clean-up
This is a wonderful service to our
March Food Drive ~ Be the Hero. Fight Hunger! That’s the theme that has been chosen by the Y.E.S. team (Youth Energized to Serve) for this year’s March Food Drive. If last year is any indication, we should have some fun adventures as we learn about hunger in our nation and this year’s drive! The need continues to be great. Please plan to be a part of this important effort by helping on the Y.E.S. team and bringing your donations of cash and non-perishable food items to Bethel during the month of March.
The last of three 6th Grade Lord’s Prayer Retreats will take place in the Bethel Youth Center on Sunday, March 4, from noon to 3 p.m. All 6th grade youth are invited; please RSVP by Wednesday, February 29.. Parents, if you are available to help with this retreat, please contact Barb Farmer.
6th Grade Connections will meet on Wednesdays, March 7, and March 28, this month.
Page 6 The Bethel Banner
Bethel Youth News
Barb Farmer, Director of Youth Ministries
786-8877
That’s quite a statement of Bethel’s commitment to loving our neighbor! Your generosity gives hope to many.
There’s another result of the drive, however, that is near and dear to my heart. Since 2004, Bethel’s March Food Drive has been led by Bethel youth with the help of caring, supportive adults. Your response to their efforts reinforces the message we try to instill in our Bethel youth – you are the church. Now. Not only in the future, not only when you graduate, not only when you become an adult, but now.
When you give to the March Food Drive, you help to ensure that the
March – a time for lots of snow, the hope of spring, March Madness, and of course, the March Food Drive. The March Food Drive has been a big focus of Bethel’s for years and the effort shows in our outstanding record of giving:
2001 3,248 pounds/dollars 2002 4,115 pounds/dollars 2003 4,869 pounds/dollars 2004 7,500 pounds/dollars 2005 8,825 pounds/dollars 2006 10,078 pounds/dollars 2007 11,651 pounds/dollars 2008 11,283 pounds/dollars 2009 14,586 pound/dollars 2010 13,504 pounds/dollars 2011 14,192 pounds/dollars
You, Yes You, are the Church By Barb Farmer, Director of Youth Ministries
YouthQuake, continued on Page 7.
Northfield Food Shelf will have the food needed to adequately serve the growing need of hunger in our community. And you also help our youth learn that they are God’s hands, that they have an important place in the wellness our community, that they can make a difference by responding to a need.
Thank you Bethel, for your always generous hearts. I know we’ll work together to reach this year’s March Food Drive goal and, in that endeavor, teach our youth some life-long lessons about being a neighbor.
A Fundraising Team meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Monday, March 26.
30-Hour Famine ~ All middle school youth will receive information soon about this exciting opportunity on Friday evening and Saturday morning, March 30-31, a night of fun and learning about world hunger. You may sign up at the 30-Hour Famine table in the narthex on Sundays during March or in the Bethel Youth Center. You may also call or email Barb Farmer to participate. Parents, we will need chaperones for this event; please check out the information station or call or email Barb if you are able to help.
Be sure to check out this month's nursery Rembrandt: Fletcher Aylin is the March Artist of
the Month! Stop by to see his creative works on the nursery bulletin board.
The nursery is always open on Wednesday afternoons and evenings, including Ash Wednesday and for Lenten vespers. The nursery
March 2012 Page 7
will also be available for use during all Holy Week services.
Mark your calendars.... our Nursery Bake Sale will be May 6!
Nursery News
Juley Jenkinson, Nursery Coordinator
786-6674 [email protected]
Please Call the Church Office If… ♦ You or a family member is
hospitalized.
♦ You are experiencing an extended illness.
♦ You have a new baby.
♦ You have a death in your family.
♦ You have a prayer request.
♦ You have a new address, phone number, or email address.
♦ You would like to learn more about membership at Bethel.
♦ You would like to be added to the mailing list.
♦ You would like to request home communion.
♦ You would like a Befriender to contact you.
♦ You would like a pastor to contact you.
Bethel's phone number is 786-6674.
and a current balance. If you have not received a Summer Trip Recap or have questions, please contact Barb Farmer.
8th Grade Mission Trip – Monday, March 12, 7 p.m.
Christikon – Tuesday, March 13, 7 p.m.
High School New Orleans Trip – Tuesday, March 13, 8 p.m.
Fundraiser information ~ Information packets have gone out about our next fundraiser, our annual Plant Sale! A sign-up sheet for helping with the plant delivery & pick-up on Friday and Saturday, May 11 and 12, will be in the Bethel Youth Center, or contact Barb Farmer to sign up.
YouthQuake, continued from page 16.
around Bethel. They truly appreciate your service! You can continue to sign-up in the youth room or on this link: http://www.volunteerspot.com/login/entry/732345631841830094.
March Food Drive - Be a hero! Help fight hunger! Will you help us?...We still need you! If you are interested in helping with the March Food Drive, be sure to let Barb Farmer or Cindy Kreis know.
The Y.E.S. team wants middle and high school youth to take part in opportunities to help others in our community and beyond. Current Y.E.S. opportunities are:
Meals on Wheels – We have just four Sundays in 2012 to fill up! Please give this service a try and help us complete our YES team commitment to deliver the Blue Route each Sunday after the second service. Grab a friend or go with your family. It takes less than 30 minutes delivering to people who live in the retirement centers
Just Say Y.E.S. … (That's Youth Energized to Serve)
Page 8 The Bethel Banner
Highlights of the January Church Council Meeting The Trustee reported that several of our pine
trees have been damaged by a spray we used
on our lawn and Dupont is going to reimburse
us for them. The lights have all been repaired
in the sanctuary. The janitors closet has been
rearranged and cleaned up.
The Personnel Officer reported that there has
been a change in some of the staff’s
supervision. Pastor Tim will now supervise
the janitorial staff and continue to supervise
the administrative staff. Pastor Charlie will
supervise the programming staff.
The Treasurer reported that we will be able to
fund $60,992 of the debt reserve for 2011 and
that money will go to prepay the building debt.
The building load is under $2 million as of the
end of the year 2011 and they are talking of
either re-financing or re-amatorizing the loan.
Chuck Sandstrom is retiring from the Finance
Committee and he will be very missed.
The Steward reported that they are working
on the Time and Talent Opportunity sheets
and Volunteer Appreciation.
At-Large members reported on Visual Arts,
the kitchen, and Mission and Justice.
The Nominating Committee is busy finishing
up the slate of candidates for the annual
meeting.
The Council restructure was reviewed.
March 2012 Page 9
Year-to-date
Benevolences
Enjoy the convenience of electronic giving
Bethel Lutheran Church offers electronic giving, which allows you to make donations on a scheduled, automatic basis. If you are writing checks and preparing envelopes every week, you will especially appreciate electronic giving. It is convenient for you and provides much-needed donation consistency for Bethel. Simply Giving can be used for your regular faith-based giving and/or building fund pledge.
How to get started ~ To set up electronic donations, simply complete the authorization form which can be found on Bethel’s website (bethelnorthfield.org) or on the information table in the narthex. Donations can be debited automatically from either a checking or savings account. Return the completed form to the church office, attention Gloria West. If you have any questions, please contact Gloria at 786-6687 or [email protected].
Financial News and Notes
Gloria West, Church Accountant
786-6687
Capital Campaign
Thanks for making Bethel your Thrivent Choice!!
Since September 2010, Bethel Lutheran Church has re-ceived $5,819 from the Thrivent Choice Dollars Program because Thrivent members have directed their dollars to Bethel. The number of Bethel Thrivent members who have made Bethel their choice has grown to 30. If you or a family member have questions about the program or need assistance visit Thrivent.com/thriventchoice or call 800-847-4836.
Stock Donations If you are considering or planning to donate stock to Bethel, please contact Gloria at [email protected] or 786-6687 before you make the transfer.
When stocks are transferred to Bethel's brokerage account, the name of the donor is not always available, so it is very important that you contact Gloria so she can credit your giving statement correctly and record your contribution per your instructions. If you need the delivery instructions to make the transfer from your account into Bethel's account, Gloria has that information also. Thanks for your generosity.
Capital Campaign 07/01/10 - 06/30/13
Results as of 1/31/2012
Pledges 1,746,659
Pledges Received (1,090,513)
Pledges to be Received 656,146
Non-Pledges Received 75,305
1/15/2009 Building Debt 3,500,000
Scheduled Principal payments (245,723)
Additional Principal payments (1,368,361)
1/31/2012 Building Debt 1,885,916
Building Debt
As of January 31, 2012
SE MN Synod 2,292
Lutheran Social Services 917
ELCA World Hunger 241
CAC Food Shelf 305
Good Samaritan Funds used 320
$4,075
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7 p.m
. Bef
rien
der
Tra
inin
g Follo
w-u
p
6 7 a.m
. 7th
Gra
de
Coura
ge R
etre
at
2 p.m
. Bet
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Pro
gram
min
g Staff
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ting
7 See
sch
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1:30
p.m
. Ste
war
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mitte
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4:30
p.m
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es S
tudy
7 p.m
. 6th
Gra
de
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tions
8 Via d
e Cristo R
etre
at
Men
's W
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d
8 a.m
. Bet
hel W
om
en's
Stu
dy
8:30
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. Men
of
Bet
hel
12:30
p.m
. Tro
ubad
ors
Reh
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7 p.m
. Boy Sco
ut
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op 3
44 m
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7 p.m
. Churc
h C
ouncil
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ting
9 Via d
e Cristo R
etre
at
Men
's W
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10
Via d
e Cristo R
etre
at
Men
's W
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9 a.m
. 'W
hat's S
o
Am
azin
g About
Gra
ce" book
study
11
See
sch
edule b
elow
Via d
e Cristo R
etre
at
Men
's W
eeken
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9:45
a.m
. Pra
cticin
g O
ur Faith
: Bet
hel
Mem
ber
Tes
tim
onies
12
4:30
p.m
. Northfield
Youth
Choir reh
earsal
7 p.m
. 8th
Gra
de
Mission T
rip m
eeting
13
9:30
a.m
. Ban
dag
e Fold
ing
2 p.m
. Bet
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Pro
gram
min
g Staff
mee
ting
6:30
p.m
. Lib
erty
Par
k Townhom
e Ass
n.
7 p.m
. Lyd
ia C
ircle
7 p.m
. Sco
ut D
en
Par
ent m
eeting
7
p.m
. Christik
on T
rip
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ting
8 p.m
. New
Orlea
ns
Trip m
eeting
14
See
sch
edule b
elow
4:30
p.m
. Jam
es S
tudy
7 p.m
. Hi Lea
gue
7:55
p.m
. Confirm
atio
n
Class
es S
undae
Par
ty
15
Via d
e Cristo R
etre
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Wom
en's W
eeken
d
8 a.m
. Bet
hel W
om
en's
Stu
dy
8:30
a.m
. Men
of
Bet
hel
12:30
p.m
. Tro
ubad
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Reh
earsal
7 p.m
. Boy Sco
ut
Tro
op 3
44 m
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16
Via d
e Cristo R
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Wom
en's W
eeken
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17
Via d
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etre
at
Wom
en's W
eeken
d
9 a.m
. 'W
hat's S
o
Am
azin
g About
Gra
ce" book
study
Calendar — March 2011
Page 10 The Bethel Banner
18
See
sch
edule b
elow
Via d
e Cristo R
etre
at
Wom
en's W
eeken
d
9:45
a.m
. Pra
cticin
g O
ur Faith
: Bet
hel
Mem
ber
Tes
tim
onies
19
9:30
a.m
. Mar
tha Circle
20
8:45
a.m
. Bet
hel
Wom
en H
avin
g Fun
2 p.m
. Bet
hel
Pro
gram
min
g Staff
mee
ting
21
9 a.m
. Bet
hel
Adm
inistrative Staff
mee
ting
11:30
a.m
. Mid
-Day
Len
ten S
ervice
12
p.m
. Len
t Soup
Lunch
4:30
p.m
. Jam
es S
tudy
5:30
p.m
. Len
t Soup
Supper
6:30
p.m
. Len
ten
Ves
per
s Ser
vice
22
8 a.m
. Bet
hel
Wom
en's S
tudy
8:30
a.m
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of
Bet
hel
12 p
.m. S
TARS
Lunch
eon
12:30
p.m
. Tro
ubad
ors
Reh
earsal
7 p.m
. Boy Sco
ut
Tro
op 3
44 m
eeting
23
24
9 a.m
. 'W
hat's S
o
Am
azin
g About
Gra
ce" book
study
25
See
sch
edule b
elow
9:45
a.m
. Pra
cticin
g O
ur Faith
: Bet
hel
Mem
ber
Tes
tim
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26
7 p.m
. Lois C
ircle
5:30
p.m
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Fundra
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m
mee
ting
27
9 a.m
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hel Q
uilt
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2 p.m
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min
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See
sch
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are
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"N
ourish
" 4:30
p.m
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es S
tudy
7 p.m
. 6th
Gra
de
Connec
tions
29
8 a.m
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hel
Wom
en's S
tudy
8:30
a.m
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of
Bet
hel
12:30
p.m
. Tro
ubad
ors
Reh
earsal
7 p.m
. Boy Sco
ut
Tro
op 3
44 m
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30
30-H
our Fam
ine Eve
nt 31
30
-Hour Fam
ine
Eve
nt
9 a.m
. 'W
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. Via d
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Ultre
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April 8 ~ Easter Sunday
April 26 ~ Thursday's Table
April 28 ~ Adopt-A-Highway Clean-Up Day
May 10 ~ STARS luncheons
May 18-19 ~ Bethel Garage Sale
March 2012 Page 11
Look for more information about events at Bethel on our
website at: www.bethelnorthfield.org
Mark Your Calendars
Weekly Wednesday Schedule
(except
ions
and
add
itions
noted
abo
ve)
9 a.m
. Adm
inistrative St
aff M
eeting
11:30
a.m
. Len
ten w
orship
Noon
Soup L
unch
3:30
p.m
.
BAM
5:30
p.m
.
Len
t So
up S
upper
6:30
p.m
. Ves
per
s
7 p.m
.
Bell C
hoir R
ehea
rsal
7 p.m
. Adult C
hoir R
ehea
rsal
7 p.m
. Confirm
atio
n (en
ds M
arch
14)
Weekly Sunday Schedule
(except
ions
and
add
itions
noted
abo
ve)
8:30
a.m
. W
orship
with H
oly C
om
mun
ion
9:45
a.m
. Su
nday
Sch
ool a
nd coffee
fello
wsh
ip
Adult o
ptions: M
athet
es, a
dult foru
ms
10:45
a.m
. Worship
with H
oly C
om
mun
ion
Page 12 The Bethel Banner
Challenge will present an adult forum in the sanctuary between services. Please come and learn more.
Creation Care Tip ~ We’ve already suggested that you install a programmable thermostat to save on heating your home, but did you know you can also save energy by turning down your water heat and turning up your refrigerator? According to the U.S. Department of Energy, each time you reduce the temperature on your hot water heater by 10 degrees Fahrenheit, you save between 3 and 5% in energy costs. Changing the setting from 140 degrees to 120 degrees or from “hot” to “warm” could save you up to 10% each year. The same goes for your refrigerator, one of the largest energy eaters in your home because it’s constantly on. By changing your fridge to about 38 degrees Fahrenheit and your freezer to 5 degrees Fahrenheit, you can save as much as 25% on your annual utility bill.
wash laundry in cold water, Bethel has now pledged to save a total of $81,281 annually in energy costs and cut down on carbon dioxide emissions by 921,953 lbs. Bethel households continue to show their care for creation by cutting down on energy use and at the same time, cutting down on pollution. Some information about what households are doing to cut back on energy use shows that 131 households have pledged to use at least 5 CFL bulbs; 111 have pledged to turn off lights when leaving a room or area; 100 have pledged to drive the speed limit; 83 households have pledged to use fans instead of air conditioning on cool summer nights; 72 households have pledged to "ditch the car" by combining trips, walking for errands and exercise, and biking; and 65 households have pledged to program a thermostat for smart heating and cooling. The list is more extensive, and you can learn more and sign up on your own at MN Energy Challenge.org.
On Sunday, April 15, Neely Crane Smith, the director of MN Energy
On March 4 and 11, you will have the opportunity
to learn more about Lutheran Partners in Global Mission, one of Bethel's partner organizations. Over 60 members of Bethel currently support an Indian student through LPGM and you may choose to add your name to that list. As Bethel focuses on human trafficking, a world-wide issue with many roots in India, you may keep a child from such a vicious cycle by providing an education that includes a strong emphasis on child-rights. Stop at the LPGM table in the narthex on March 4 and 11. To learn more, read the LPGM article on page 13.
MN Energy Challenge ~ Bethel added 20 new households to its MN Energy Challenge
Team in January. (Great job, Bethel members!) With their added pledges to turn off the lights, use CFLs, turn down the water heater to 120°, turn down the heat at least 8° at night, and
From the Mission and Justice Committee Vision Statement: Since we believe that service is both an obligation and a privilege of the Christian life, we seek to provide opportunities for Bethel members to learn about the needs of others in our world and to
put their knowledge into action, heeding Christ's call to "Love your neighbor as yourself."
ISLA News (Interfaith Services to Latin America)
Wanted to go on a winter trip to sunny Jalapa, Nicaragua but couldn't quite do it this year?
Don't despair, you can have a virtual trip and easily see some of the wonderful real-life work recently done by ISLA volunteers and their Nicaraguan partners on-line at our Facebook page. See photos and accounts of the construction team building a two-room mountain school despite unprecedented rains and other difficulties, the scholarship ceremonies helping over 120 high school students
stay in school and build their futures, the medical team's continued life-saving efforts to prevent cervical cancer, St. Olaf students learning experience in another culture, and more from the January trip!
Go to: www.Facebook.com/ISLA. Nicaragua. Sign in and "like" us, please. Then join in the fun, reconnect with other ISLAers through your own stories and photos.
Don't have a Facebook account? It's easy. You also don't have to tell
anything about yourself you don't want (except email address.) No reason to be intimidated and no evidence you'll be spammed.
We even have Nicaraguan friends you might recognize on Facebook! So catch up and enjoy being part of ISLA's ongoing tradition!
If you are still interested in a winter trip, March 15-27, let us know right away. Or there's always a lovely May 16-27 trip upcoming.
March 2012 Page 13
From Our Mission Interpreter... By Lois Stratmoen
current family ministry; evaluation of staff and volunteer positions; safety and security policies, practices and training; volunteer background check consultation, and visioning and planning for future ministry are just some of the partnerships evolving from this position.
Online Resources. This evolving resource currently includes a webpage (semnsynod.org/CYF) and a new monthly e-newsletter. Watch for this resource to continue to grow and provide ongoing and archived articles, resource lists, contacts, and ministry tools.
Synod CYF Prayer Team. Both lay and rostered people connected with CYF ministry comprise this network. Bi-monthly prayer petitions are sent via email. They lift up needs of the diverse families within the synod. Specific requests and petitions of thanksgiving as identified and received are also included. All are invited to join the team.
Synod Assembly 2012: God’s Work. Our Hands. God’s Family. The 2012 Synod Assembly (May 4 – 5; Rochester, MN) will focus on families. The schedule will feature conversation, resources, tools, and workshops to equip congregations and families. Saturday morning will include 20-30 workshops (including one led by Pastor Tim and Pam Vig) open to all, not just voters. Congregations are comprised of families of all shapes, sizes, ages and design. The 21st century family invites us to be God’s family in familiar, re-imagined, and new ways. The synod is your partner in ministry with all of God’s family, as we serve our neighbor and discover God’s abundance in the world.
conversations, tools, and resources which grow faith in our living and active God. Here are just some of the ways that the synod is supporting families and those who minister with them:
Synod CYF (Children, Youth and Family) Network Gatherings. These monthly gatherings are for all volunteers and staff who are a part of the CYF ministry in their congregation. The location around the synod and the topic of conversation change each month. Each event features two gatherings: one at noon and one in the evening to accommodate varying schedules.
NEW! A Synod Children, Youth and Family Ministry Coordinator. This position was added to the synod staff in 2011. Karen Kieseke’s role is to support congregations in a variety of needs: Developing new or re-imagining
Given Bethel’s strength in its youth programs and the number of young families and youth members we are blessed to have at Bethel, the following article from SE MN Synod’s last issue of The Bridge caught my attention. I chose it since I believe one of our missions at Bethel is to provide education for all of our members.
Supporting God’s Family
Mothers, fathers, spouses, grandparents, children, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, godparents – families are webs of support for one another. They are an integral part of the way faith communities grow and thrive.
The Southeastern Minnesota Synod cares about and supports all families on their faith journey. Partnering with congregations and families is a priority, especially as faith and families in the 21st century offer challenges and opportunities to re-imagine the
Touching the Life of a Child in India Lutheran Partners in Global Ministry, founded by Bethel members, Gordon and Betty Olson, is a global mission partner with Bethel. LPGM supports nearly 1,800 children in Lutheran schools and boarding homes in South India.
Over 60 members of Bethel currently support a child through LPGM and we together celebrate this amazing connection and unusual generosity. A board will be displayed starting on February 26 with photos of all the children and names of their Bethel sponsors.
You will have an opportunity on March 4 and 11 to add your name to the list of sponsors. Through this program you can connect directly with a child, age 6-18, providing food, clothing, exposure to the love of Jesus and hope for a better life through education. Personal relationships are encouraged through prayers and letter writing - a great way to introduce your family to a child from another culture and a different economic situation.
Stop at the LPGM table to check out what you can do to help and/or check out the LPGM website at www.lutheranpartners.org to donate or sponsor online. Cost: $25 a month. Reward: making a difference forever in the life of a child.
Adult Ed, continued on Page 15.
The Bethel Banner Page 14
Join a book study on What’s So Amazing About Grace? by Philip Yancey in which we will explore this question in depth. In 1987, an IRA bomb buried Gordon Wilson and his twenty-year-old daughter beneath five feet of rubble. Gordon alone survived. And forgave. He said of the bombers, “I have lost my daughter, but I bear no grudge. . . . I shall pray, tonight and every night, that God will forgive them.” His words caught the media's ear — and out of one man's grief, the world got a glimpse of grace. Grace is the church's great distinction. It's the one thing the world cannot duplicate, and the one thing it craves above all else — for only grace can bring hope and transformation to a jaded world. If grace is God's love for the undeserving, he asks, then what does it look like in action? And if Christians are its sole dispensers, then how are we doing at lavishing grace on a world that knows far more of cruelty and unforgiveness than it does of mercy? Contact Jill Eastman for details at 507-301-2822.
James a Book of Faith Study – with Lisa McDermott, Wednesdays, March 7 through March 28, 4:30-5:30 p.m. in Bethel Classroom 62 [Note new start date!] The key to understanding and appreciating the New Testament Letter of James is wisdom - the creative gift of God that enables God's people to live and grow in responsible maturity. As you participate in this four-session Book of Faith Bible study, you may well find comfort, strength, and power in the letter of James.
"The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil" - Sunday, April 29, 9:45 am. in Sanctuary. In 1990, when the Soviet Union fell, Cuba lost over half of its oil imports and survived. Some Cubans call it the "Special Period". How did they do it? What actions did they take? Sponsored by the Creation Care Team, the movie will begin promptly at 9:45.
Bethel is committed to building and equipping disciples for Christ and His Kingdom through our adult education offerings. We encourage every adult in our Bethel community to participate in the forums, classes, and retreats that are offered this year.
For all Adults on Sunday For all Adults on Sunday
MorningsMornings
Adult Ed Classes
Mathetes with Pastor Tim, 9:45-10:30 a.m., Fireside Room Learn through Scripture what it means to be a disciple of Christ, with a focus this winter on the Lord’s Prayer.
Membership Matters, April 15 – 12 to 1:30 p.m. If you are a Bethel visitor who is thinking about joining Bethel, you are invited to join the Bethel staff on one of the above dates for a casual pizza lunch and an informative gathering about Bethel congregation, its mission and ministries, and our hopes and dreams for the future. While not required, MM may help you decide if Bethel is the right congregation for you.
Adult Faith Forums Sunday Mornings, 9:45 – 10:30 a.m.
Neely Crane Smith, the director of MN Energy Challenge April 15.
Adult Ed Opportunities Adult Ed Opportunities
during the Weekduring the Week
A class on the overview of the Bethel Bible Series Old Testament meets every other Wednesday in the Bethel library from 10 to 11:15 a.m. This series helps us understand the Bible’s lessons by first understanding the historical and cultural context in which it was written. This class is led by Kris and Caryl Vohs. For more information, contact them at 645-6009.
What's So Amazing About Grace - with Jill Eastman, 9-10:30 a.m., Saturdays, through March 31, in the Fireside Room.
Ongoing and Upcoming Adult Education Genesis to Revelation – Wednesdays, April 4 – May 16, 2012, 4:30 – 5:30 pm, Bethel Classroom 62. A fun snapshot view and discussion of the Bible from cover to cover led by Pastor Charlie.
Bethel Women’s Study, Thursdays, 8 – 9 a.m., Bethel’s Fireside Room. Women of Bethel meet each Thursday for good coffee and rich conversation. On February 23, they began the book Practicing Our Faith: A Way of Life for a Searching People by Dorothy C. Bass. Copies of this book can be purchased from the Monkey See, Monkey Read bookstore in Northfield. New participants are always welcome!! Contact Pam Santerre at 786-8951 for more information.
Men of Bethel (MOB), Thursdays, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m., Bethel Classrooms 61 A&B. New participants are always welcome.
Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (WELCA) Bible Study The 2011-2012 Bible study is To Follow and To Serve: The Gospel of Mark by Patricia Lull. This study is an invitation to discipleship in the 21st century, emphasizing what it means to follow Jesus Christ today. Barb Holm will be leading a monthly study for WELCA circle leaders and anyone else who is interested. They will meet most months on the first Monday of each month, from 7-8 p.m. in the Fireside Room. Please contact Barb at 301-8184 if you plan to attend and need the study materials.
Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (WELCA) Circles Women gather together in their WELCA Circles monthly for Bible
From the Scrip Table... It's March and that gets most of us thinking about Spring!! You can use Scrip cards to prepare your garden, buy that new patio furniture, sports equipment, lawn mower, Easter dress, and more! Getting ready for graduation? Scrip can help with that too. With almost 200 local retailers, Scrip can help you budget for any occasion while building your trip account at the same time.
Buffalo Wild Wings $25 cards are now available to purchase at the table every Sunday along with $10 Pizza Hut cards.
Information from the adult forum presentation by Kyle Nordine, Northfield Retirement Community
President and CEO and Bethel member, is available at Bethel. Contact either Sandy Peterson or Pam Santerre for printouts of the presentation on H.E.AL.T.H.Y—Home Enhanced Automated Living Through Healthsense®. H.E.A.L.T.H.Y. is a system that applies the use of sensors and communication devices to assist older adults to maintain health and wellness for a more independent lifestyle.
From Across the Parking Lot...
Living Faith
Pam Santerre, Pastoral Minister
786-8951
The second reason I love this passage is that it's the only time (I know of) when Jesus first heals someone half-way, pauses, and then finishes up the job. It is this "in between" moment with which I identify, which often feels very much like a description of my own faith. Blindness and vision, doubt and certainty, sin and salvation, tomb and resurrection: I am here in the space between, longing for Jesus to lay his hands on me again, but filled with gratitude that in the meantime I am granted a blurred vision of people, like trees, walking.
Kaethe Schwehn
So what Bible verses are/have been precious to you on your faith journey? Email your reflection to [email protected] or drop it off at the church office.
Dorothy Bass noted in her book Practicing Our Faith: A Way of Life for a Searching People that Christian practice depends on prayer and “on ongoing, living encounter with scripture.”
In the following reflection, Kaethe Schwehn shares about one of her favorite Bible passages. Although I have read this story several times, Kaethe’s perspective brought it to life in a whole new way for me. That’s part of the wisdom we gain by engaging in a living encounter with God’s Word!
One of my favorite Biblical passages is when Jesus heals a blind man in Bethsaida (Mark 8:22-26). I love this story for two reasons. The first is that after Jesus puts saliva on the blind man's eyes, the blind man offers one of the Top Ten Best Biblical Metaphors to describe his half-returned vision: "I can see people, but they look like trees, walking."
March 2012 Page 15
study, prayer, and fellowship. Circles are open to all women; Bethel has several to fit any schedule. If you are interested in joining a circle, or would like to begin a new group, please contact Marcia Omdahl at 664-9052.
Workshops, Retreats, Workshops, Retreats,
Events, Support Groups Events, Support Groups
Via de Cristo is a Spanish phrase meaning "Way of Christ." A Via de Cristo weekend is a three-day retreat designed to strengthen and renew the faith of Christian people and bring them to a new awareness of living in God's grace. Via de Cristo is open to all adults, single or married. If you are interested in attending, or have already attended one and want to volunteer to work a weekend, please contact Mike and Sandy Ahrens or Roger and Vikki VanVeldhuizen for more information.
Upcoming Via de Cristo Retreats at Bethel: March 8-11, Men's weekend March 15-18, Women's
Bethel Seniors Together Bethel Seniors Together
At Retirements (STARS) At Retirements (STARS)
Quarterly eventsQuarterly events
Luncheon and Program at Bethel, Thursday, March 22, 2012, 12–2 p.m. at Bethel – You will not want to miss the next STARS event with guest speaker, Pastor Bruce Benson, retired college pastor at St. Olaf. Look for more information and sign-up at the information table in the narthex. Please register by March 20.
Luncheon and Program at Bethel, Thursday, May 10, 2012, 12 – 2 pm at Bethel – Save the date!
Adult Ed, continued from page 14.
The Bethel Banner Page 16
March Worship Servants
March 4 March 11 March 18 March 25
Assisting Minister Carol Lysne Mike Ahrens Lu Lindstrom Noel Stratmoen
Assisting Minister (10:45 a.m.)
Libby Glimsdal Mike Ahrens Christina Schwietz Knight Stanley
Reader (8:30 a.m.) Ann Etter Carol Cole Bethel Youth Kathy Tezla
Reader (10:45 a.m.) Alyce Nelson Mary Carlsen Bethel Youth Janelle Johnson
Acolytes (8:30 a.m.) Dan Nelson, Will Schuerman
Mikhail Geissler. Danielle Haines
Ben Selchow, Lilly Prestemon
Sam Hegseth, Maxwell Gorden Mercer
Acolytes (10:45 a.m.) Garrett Sawyer, Gabriella Vargas
Andrew Baumgartner, Grace Carlson
Gabby Yciano, Madelyn Meyer
Jack Brachmann, Nissa Christianson
Sacramental Ministers (8:30 a.m.)
Mike & Sandy Ahrens, Wendell Arneson & Beth Christensen, Kitty Runzheimer
Jill Eastman, Rose Turnacliff, Connie DeGrote, Sandy Ahrens, Carol Cole
Bethel Youth Abbie Meierbachtol, Kristi Huettl, Sandy Reiman, Marcia Omdahl, Connie DeGrote
Sacramental Ministers (10:45 a.m.)
Jean Mueller, Dan Foley, Pam Vig, Deb Peters, Cindy Kreis
Sandy Ahrens, Barb Neitzel, Barb Farmer, Cindy Kreis, Marci Groenewold
Bethel Youth Roger & Vikki VanVeldhuizen, Marci Groenewold, Pam Vig, Marcia Omdahl
Ushers (8:30 a.m.) Ellis Lysne, Bob Vanderhoof, Roger Glasgow, Dale Turnacliff
Marilyn & Gordon Kelley, Char & David Jacobsen
Bethel Youth Steve Meierbachtol, Kyle Nordine, Jim Moberg, Tony Huettl
Ushers (10:45 a.m.) Roger VanVeldhuizen, Mike Glampe, Barb & Tadd Henwood
Barry Vig, Marv Farmer, Chad & Juley Jenkinson
Bethel Youth Carol & Gerry Gengenbach, Ryan Blumhoefer, Chad Jenkinson
Greeters (8:30 a.m.) Jerry & Sandy Germundson Keith & Gail Setterstrom Mark & Judy Code Joyce Hoogenaker, Randy Christel
Greeters (10:45 a.m.) Alyce Nelson, Jim or Dottie Hammer
Alyce Nelson, Dan or Christine Kallman
Libby Glimsdal, Emily Blumhoefer
Allan & Paula Mathison
Nametags (8:30 a.m.) Janet Pritchard, Barb Holm Janet Pritchard, Mary Loven
Carroll Johnson, Kathy Hughitt
Adam Hackney, Tammy Christel
Nametags (10:45 a.m.) Patty & Tim Geary Carol & Steve O'Neill Carroll Johnson, Ryan Blumhoefer
Glen Peterson, Kathy Fredrickson
Coffee Servers Jerry & Sandy Germundson, Ruth Bolstad & Dave Chapman, Jim & Dottie Hammer, Beth Schultz
Jerry & Sandy Germundson, Keith & Gail Setterstrom, Mary Loven, Barb Holm, Mark & Michelle Murphy
Winnie Johnson, Heidi & Travis Grant, the Benedict/Miessler family, Emily & Ryan Blumhoefer
Joyce Hoogenaker, Robyn Peterson, Adam & Carrie Hackney, Dale & Rose Turnacliff, Alyce Nelson, Winnie Johnson
The Bethel Banner The Bethel Banner
March 2012 Page 17
A Measure of Our Commitment February Worship Attendance average per Sunday
2009 2010 2011 2012
516 534 487 535*
Average Year-to-date Worship Attendance
2009 2010 2011 2012
513 514 479 491*
*Not including February 26, 2012
The Bethel Banner is published monthly as a ministry of Bethel Lutheran Church of Northfield, Minnesota. The congregation is invited to submit articles to the church office. Articles are due by the 15th of each month. Questions, suggestions, or comments? Contact editor Lisa McDermott at [email protected], by phone at 645-0740, or call the church office at 786-6674.
March 2012 March 2012
March 4 March 11 March 18 March 25
Altar Care Carol Lysne Andra Hamilton Lu Lindstrom Connie & Gary DeGrote
Communion Angels
Alice Dale, Arlene Neil Sharon Stoeck, Kay Gredvig Carol Cole Elaine Deim, Dick and Orpah Johnson
A/V Room (8:30 a.m.) Seth Hanson V Liam Fisher A
Jordan Ett V Jack Beaumaster A
Seth Hanson V Ben Coleman A
Jordan Ett V Ruth Nelson A
A/V Room (10:45 a.m.)
David Kreis V Joe Kreis A
Mark Lewis V Patrick Walker A
Nathan Dahlen V Andrew Kivell A
Mark Lewis V Rose Mibus A
Service Group Chairperson: Rosemarie Lewis, 645-6406
Trained AARP Tax-Aide Volunteers will prepare and electronically file individual income tax returns for taxpayers of low and middle incomes, with special attention to those age 60 and older. Call 664-3700 for an appointment, which will take place at the Northfield Senior Center, Monday through Saturday, 8:30-11:30 a.m., February 6 through April 14.
Please bring with you:
� A copy of your 2010 tax return
� Social Security and ID cards, including one photo ID for taxpayer
Tax Preparation Help Available
� W-2 forms from your employer
� All 1099 forms that show social security income for 2011, pension income, interest or dividend income, and sale of stocks or mutual funds
� Other miscellaneous income
� If a renter, a copy of your 2011 Certificate of Rent Paid (CRP)
� If a homeowner, a copy of property tax paid in 2011 and, when received, a copy of tax payable in 2012.
Have an Urgent Pastoral Care Need? Our pastoral team seeks to be responsive to church members’ needs at all times. If you experience an immediate need for help (death in the family, health crisis, etc.) the Pastoral Care staff is available 24 hours a day:
Daytime, Monday through Friday: Call the church office at 786-6674.
Nights and Weekends: Call the Pastoral Care phone at 649-0323. Pastor Tim, Pastor Charlie, and Pam Santerre, Pastoral Minister, are available on a rotating basis via this cell phone number.
words per minute, but can listen at 300 words per minute!
Listening to another’s story helps with the healing of another’s pain. As the story is retold again and again, the pain associated with it lessens. In cases of severe trauma, a story may have to be told dozens of times. A caring individual is willing to listen as long as it takes. Perhaps you have been the recipient of a conversation where you truly felt heard and understood.
Perhaps you would like to give the gift of listening to another person. Take a moment on Sunday during fellowship time or during a soup supper during this Lenten season to give the gift of active listening to a fellow Bethelite, a family member, or a friend.
Blessings from Bethel's Befrienders
Conversations are everywhere. Throughout our lives we learn and grow
through conversations with our parents, siblings, spouses, friends, and colleagues.
The Bethel Befriender Ministry is primarily a listening ministry: one where individual conversations are listened to and responded to in a kind and loving manner. However, to be a good listener, one needs to respond appropriately to let the person know you are really being heard. Little comments like, “How interesting” or “Tell me more” help people realize you are actually listening to them.
Has your mind ever wandered while listening to another’s story? It might be because we speak about 150-200
herself so moved by the people and children of Uganda that she knew her calling was to return and care for them. She has given up a relatively comfortable life—at a young age—to care for the less fortunate of this world. She was so moved by the need she witnessed, she’s centered her life around meeting that need. Katie, a charismatic and articulate young woman, is in the process of adopting thirteen children in Uganda, and she completely trusts God for daily provision for her and her family. Despite the rough conditions in which Katie lives, she has found a life of service to God to be one of great joy. Katie’s children bring constant delight and help her help others by welcoming whoever comes to their door. As the challenges grow, so does Katie’s faith and her certainty that what she’s doing in Uganda, one person at a time, will
New to the Bethel Library this month are the book and DVD Courageous, from the creators of Fireproof. While four law enforcement officers
consistently give their best on the job, good enough seems to be all they can muster as dads. But they're quickly discovering that their standard is missing the mark. When tragedy hits home, these men are left wrestling with their hopes, their fears, their faith, and their fathering. Can a newfound urgency help these dads draw closer to God and to their children?
Also new to the Bethel library is the inspiring biography Kisses from Katie, a Story of Relentless Love and Redemption. Katie Davis left over Christmas break her senior year for a short mission trip to Uganda and her life was turned completely inside out. She found
have far-reaching rewards. It isn’t the life she planned, but it is the life she loves.
You know spring is near when children’s books about Easter start appearing on the store shelves. Use the library to preview these sweet stories of the resurrection:
The Angel & the Dove by Sophie Piper
The Legend of the Sand Dollar by Chris Auer
Easter in the Garden by Pamela Kennedy
The Sparrow’s Easter Song by Michelle Medlock Adams
Benjamin’s Box by Melody Carlson
The Easter Cave by Carol S. Wedeven
Library Corner
Befrienders By Marci Groenewold
The Bethel Banner Page 18
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A core Befriender principle: “Active Listening." For more information, call Marci Groenewold, (649-0760), Knight Stanley (612-877-0893 ), Jean Miller (645-5353), or the Bethel office (786-6674).
Befriender Calendar at a Glance:
Follow-up Befriender training: March 6, 7 p.m., “Making Meaning” and a welcome to the newly trained Befrienders, at St. Dominic's in the Devney-Hughes Room. This is a joint meeting of the Bethel and St Dominic Befrienders.
Life as a Befriender: April 19, 7 p.m., Bethel Fireside Room.
Thank you, Bethel congregation, for your prayers, your visits, your support these past months since I was diagnosed with acute leukemia. You have made a difference in my life. I am experiencing God's healing power at work, and I am hopeful it will continue as I receive treatment at Mayo Clinic.
Larry Petterson
Thank you to all the Bethel members who volunteered at Thursday's Table in October and/or January. The members volunteered to do table set-up, room set-up, the serving of food, as table cleaners and re-setters, and as dining room cleaning crew. Their work is appreciated by the 200 or more community members who enjoy this free dinner that is served weekly. The volunteers were: Carol Cole, Shirley Lilliencrantz, Sandy Peterson, Trudy Breitag, Barb Henwood, Sandra Germundson, Alyce Nelson, Lois Stratmoen, Brian and Carolyn Walker,
Sharon Stoeck, Karen Adams, Gary and Connie DeGrote, Tom Moen, Leone Larson, Lois Cary, Julie Anderson, and Warren and Karen Broughton. Bethel's next volunteer opportunity at Thursday's Table will be on Thursday, April 26.
Thank you for your recent gift of $690 to support the mission and ministry of the ELCA through ELCA Good Gifts. Your generosity is appreciated now more than ever. Your gifts help grow our congregations, inspire new leaders, engage young people in the life of this church, share the gospel with others and care for those living with hunger and poverty. As the ELCA, we do more together than we ever could do alone. We are a church that rolls up its sleeves and solves problems — doing God's work in the world. Thank you for your support.
Christina Jackson-Skelton, ELCA
Please accept our deepest gratitude for your generous gift to Lutheran Partners in Global Ministry from proceeds from Bethel's Alternative Giving Fair ($1,482). We are thankful for your support of LPGM and the life-changing ministries we engage in with our many partners in the world. The vision of LPGM is to raise up generations who inspire hope by walking with and serving in the worldwide church. Your gift will help to make this vision possible, and each day we give thanks to God for allowing us to work with partners like you.
Mark Warpmaeker, LPGM
� Bethel often receives more thank you notes than we have space available. Some of those published are edited due to space constraints. Thank you for all you give!
We have so much to be thankful for...
March 2012 Page 19
Order Your Easter Flowers Please help beautify our church sanctuary for Easter. Orders are being taken from now until March 25, and you are welcome to take your flowers home after Easter.
Flower Cost How Many Total
Easter lilies $7.00 x _____ = _________
Hydrangeas $20.00 x _____ = _________
Mums $11.00 x _____ = _________
Begonias $12.00 x _____ = _________
Total _____ = _________
Names of all who donate flowers for the sanctuary will be listed in the Easter bulletins.
Person ordering: _________________________________________
In Honor of: ____________________________________________________
In Memory of: ___________________________________________________
Please make your check payable to Bethel Lutheran Church. You may place your order and check in the offering plate or mail it to:
Bethel Lutheran Church, 1321 North Avenue, Northfield, MN 55057
Bethel Lutheran Church is a body of believers redeemed by Christ who Call and welcome all people; Act to serve our neighbors in need; Respond with God’s love to one another; and Encourage spiritual growth.
Bethel Staff Timothy McDermott, Senior Pastor ................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Charlie Ruud, Associate Pastor ......................................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Barb Farmer, Director of Youth Ministries .................... 786-8877 .......... [email protected] Rhonda Reece, Director of Music and Worship ............ 786-8874 .......... [email protected] Sandy Peterson, Office Administrator ............................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Pam Santerre, Pastoral Minister ........................................ 786-8951 .......... [email protected] Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries ..................... 786-8878 .......... [email protected] Gloria West, Church Accountant ...................................... 786-6687 .......... [email protected] Paula Mathison, Secretary/Receptionist .......................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Ken Hu, Janitor .................................................................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Dan Kallman, Adult Choir Director ................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Jill Mahr, Youth Handbell Director .................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Elizabeth Shepley, Children’s Choir Director ................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Juley Jenkinson, Nursery Coordinator ............................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Tim Freeland, A/V Room Manager ................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Church Library ..................................................................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Bethel Banner submissions ................................................ ........................... [email protected] Pastoral Care Emergencies ................................................. 649-0323
Bethel Lutheran Church 1321 North Avenue Northfield, MN 55057 ● ● ● Phone: 507-786-6674 Web: www.bethelnorthfield.org
www.facebook.com/bethellutheran Email: [email protected]
● ● ● Return Service Requested
Non-Profit Organization
U.S. Postage Paid
Northfield, MN
55057
Permit No. 138