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BLC Weekly, April 7

Hello Bethlehem,

Join us for Holy Week. Palm Sunday worship, led by the BLC youth and kiddos, begins at 9:30 AM. Maundy Thursday and Good Friday worship begin at 6:00 PM. There will be no Wednesday evening programming next week.


This week

The Endowment Fund Scholarship application is now open! Students in or entering college must apply online by May 1st. 

The Trio performing special music during Sunday worship.

Wednesday Night Supper: This week we are serving grilled chicken on a bun with potato salad and baked beans. Join us at 5:00pm in the lower level. The meal is free. All are welcome.

Join us at 6:15 in the sanctuary each Wednesday in Lent for a guest preacher exploring the topic of Hope. Last but certainly not least, worship this Wednesday April 9 will be led by Pastor Roger Haug. 

Bibles & Brews meets this Thursday. Join Pastor Jacie at Weggy’s, 6:00 PM, for meaningful conversation on faith and culture. 

The Musicorum Spring Concert, Enduring, will be held at Bethlehem this Saturday at 6:30 PM. Tickets are $15, students and youth are $5. Learn more at musicorum-mn.org. 

Order flowers in honor or memory of your loved ones. Easter Flower orders are now open online or you can pick up a form from the Welcome Kiosk. Please order by April 15th. Flowers can be picked up after worship on Easter Sunday. 


Family Faith Formation

FREE: Youth Mental Health First Aid Training May 10th, 9am-5pm 127 S 2nd Street. Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) equips adults with the knowledge and skills to recognize signs of mental health struggles, provide support, and connect young people with appropriate resources. Having informed, compassionate adults ready to step in can prevent youth mental health crises, reduce stigma, and foster a culture of understanding. Whether you are a parent, educator, coach, or community leader, your role in supporting youth mental health is invaluable. This training empowers you to be that first line of support, ensuring that no young person has to navigate their struggles alone. Don't miss this opportunity to gain lifegiving skills and make a real difference in the lives of young people. Register here.  Please note: additional dates are available if May 10th won’t work for you!


Announcements

Kato Sleep-Out 2025

Join team Bethlehem for the 2025 Kato Sleep-Out fundraiser to support Connections Shelter. Give your donations to Bob Ihrig for Team Bethlehem! Help us to Three-Peat as the top team for financial donations again. You can make a difference! Volunteer to sleep-out on April 25 as a Bethlehem team member. Contact Bob Ihrig if interested and available to join Pr. Jacie.

Connections Shelter Sleep Out Update - Team Bethlehem

Thank you so much for your generous support of the 2025 Sleep Out for the Connections Ministry! As of today, we have received a total of $982.95 from 9 BLC members. Those donations move us closer to meeting and exceeding last year's total BLC contributions of $4,341. We have achieved 23% of that goal.

You can add to this total with a contribution today! Read for details in the Sleep Out flyer.

Thank you also to Pr. Jacie & Amy Haigh for volunteering to represent Team Bethlehem at the Sleep Out on Friday, April 25. If you want to join them, let Bob Ihrig know and we will add you to our "sleepers". The more, the merrier!

Join Us in Serving Students Through Campus Cupboard!

Crossroads Campus Ministry is looking for dedicated volunteers to help with our Campus Cupboard Food Pantry! This vital ministry provides food and essential items to students in need, ensuring they have the support necessary to focus on their education.

We need volunteers to assist with:

  • Stocking and restocking shelves

  • Helping students find products

  • Organizing inventory

  • Giving tours to new registrants

  • Assisting with checkout

Your time and effort make a real difference! Whether you can help weekly or occasionally, we’d love to have you join us. The Campus Cupboard thrives because of volunteers like YOU!

Location: Crossroads Campus Ministry- 331 Dillon Ave. Mankato, MN 56001
Flexible shifts available

Interested? Contact Pastor Jenna Couch (pastorjenna@gmail.com) or stop by to learn more!


THANK You

Thank you for your support of the Fiesta of Joy! Last Thursday hundreds gathered at Christ the King for dinner, music, a silent auction and programming. There are just ten centerpieces left for sale. They will be available for purchase before and after worship this Sunday, $25-$35, cash or check only. Thank you for supporting the WELCOME Team! 

“Spring break flew by faster than a supersonic jet, and now we're over half-way through Spring Term! We are always thrilled to welcome students to Crossroads, and we feel tremendously blessed to have Bethlehem Lutheran Church and your volunteers as partners in our ministry to feed them through our Lunch For-a-Buck program. On Tuesday, April 1st, faithful servants Jan Blaisdell and DeAnn Bennett prepared and/or served chicken alfredo, spinach alfredo, Italian bread, salad, and homemade cookies and bars to 39 hungry lunch-goers. They also collected $41.40 in donations that will be used to purchase the salad supplies, beverages, dinnerware, and other items for lunches during the school year. God bless you for your generosity and for supporting the students and our ministry at Crossroads. We look forward to seeing you again on the final lunch of the school year on May 6th. We couldn't do this without you!”

Grace and peace,

Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry


Monthly mission partner

Our April monthly mission partner is the WELCOME Team, formed with members from five area ELCA churches assisting with an asylum seeking family in our area. They have been working on their education, language skills, obtained driver’s licenses and have gained employment. Support this organization’s mission of welcome.

You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Gail Ihrig

The families & friends of Joan Stoffel, Florence Sassenberg, and Don Grotta

Trinity Lutheran in Wanamingo Root Prairie Lutheran in Chatfield

Trinity Lutheran in Thompson Iambi Lutheran in Tanzania

Disaster Preparation & Response Ministry in Colombia

CELCO (Colegio de la Evangelica Luterana de Colombia) in Cocuy Easces

Lectionary Readings

April 9, Psalm 71:1-14

April 13, Luke 23:1-49


BLC Weekly, March 31

Hello Bethlehem,

Order flowers in honor or memory of your loved ones. Easter Flower orders are now open online or you can pick up a form from the Welcome Kiosk. Please order by April 15th. Flowers can be picked up after worship on Easter Sunday. 


This week

Wednesday Night Supper: This week we are serving sub sandwiches with potato chips and cold pasta salad. Join us at 5:00pm in the lower level. The meal is free. All are welcome.

Join us at 6:15 in the sanctuary each Wednesday in Lent for a guest preacher exploring the topic of Hope. Preaching Schedule: 

  • April 2 - Pastor Heather Hammond

  • April 9 - Pastor Roger Haug

The Fiesta of Joy is this Thursday 5:00pm at Christ the King. Come celebrate the work of the WELCOME Team, enjoy music, shop silent auction baskets, and savor a delicious south of the border meal created by Bethlehem’s Jim Christensen and celebrity chef, Jordan Mendez, owner and manager of Mazatlan. See you Thursday! 

April 6 Adult Forum: WELCOME Team.

The Cruz family has been with us in Mankato since late 2022. They seek to start a new life as legal asylum seekers. Bethlehem, along with 4 other local churches, have sponsored their journey during this time. Join us as we learn the latest of developments both locally and nationally and how we can continue to walk with them. We will gather in Grounds for Joy at 10:45 am on Sunday, April 6 for coffee and conversation with members of the WELCOME Team.


Family Faith Formation

Photos from the BLC Youth Bake Off last Friday! 

BLC Family Easter Egg Hunt coming up on Saturday, April 12th. Requesting candy donations to fill eggs! Drop off in the main office by April 6th. Thank you!

FREE: Youth Mental Health First Aid Training 

May 10th, 9am-5pm 127 S 2nd Street. Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) equips adults with the knowledge and skills to recognize signs of mental health struggles, provide support, and connect young people with appropriate resources. Having informed, compassionate adults ready to step in can prevent youth mental health crises, reduce stigma, and foster a culture of understanding. Whether you are a parent, educator, coach, or community leader, your role in supporting youth mental health is invaluable. This training empowers you to be that first line of support, ensuring that no young person has to navigate their struggles alone. Don't miss this opportunity to gain lifegiving skills and make a real difference in the lives of young people. Register here. 


Announcements

Kato Sleep-Out 2025

Join team Bethlehem for the 2025 Kato Sleep-Out fundraiser to support Connections Shelter. Give your donations to Bob Ihrig for Team Bethlehem! Help us to Three-Peat as the top team for financial donations again. You can make a difference! Volunteer to sleep-out on April 25 as a Bethlehem team member. Contact Bob Ihrig if interested and available to join Pr. Jacie.

Join Us in Serving Students Through Campus Cupboard!

Crossroads Campus Ministry is looking for dedicated volunteers to help with our Campus Cupboard Food Pantry! This vital ministry provides food and essential items to students in need, ensuring they have the support necessary to focus on their education.

  • We need volunteers to assist with:

  • Stocking and restocking shelves

  • Helping students find products

  • Organizing inventory

  • Giving tours to new registrants

  • Assisting with checkout

Your time and effort make a real difference! Whether you can help weekly or occasionally, we’d love to have you join us. The Campus Cupboard thrives because of volunteers like YOU!

Location: Crossroads Campus Ministry- 331 Dillon Ave. Mankato, MN 56001
Flexible shifts available

Interested? Contact Pastor Jenna Couch (pastorjenna@gmail.com) or stop by to learn more!


THANK You

Pastor Lisa Kipp with Lutheran World Relief thanked Bethlehem during her Adult Forum on Sunday for our continued partnership and generosity. 


Monthly mission partner

Our March monthly mission partner is THEE Alliance for Forgiving Medical Debt. Their mission is to combine expertise and compassion. $1 forgives $100 of financial hardship family debt. Many people are just one medical emergency away from a financial crisis. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

Our April monthly mission partner is the WELCOME Team, formed with members from five area ELCA churches assisting with an asylum seeking family in our area. They have been working on their education, language skills, obtained driver’s licenses and have gained employment. Support this organization’s mission of welcome.


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Al Rossow Gail Ihrig

Steven Chima Peggy Schulze

The families & friends of Joan Stoffel and Florence Sassenberg

Community Lutheran in Geneva Salem Lutheran in Albert Lea

Christ Lutheran in Preston Whalan Lutheran in Lanesboro

Mwanga Lutheran in Tanzania Kier Wan Lutheran Parish in South Sudan Iambi Hospital in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

April 2, Jeremiah 29:10-14

April 6, John 12:1-8


BLC Weekly, March 24

Hello Bethlehem,

You’re invited to a Fiesta of Joy! The WELCOME Committee, made up of five area Lutheran churches, invites you to join them Thursday, April 3rd from 5 to 8 pm at Christ the King.

Event Details: 

  • Celebrity Chef Jordan Mendez, owner/manager of Mazatlan, has partnered with Bethlehem member Jim Christensen to create a truly authentic south of the border meal of chicken breasts smothered in fajita seasoned vegetables, complimented by a simple lettuce salad and the traditional beans and rice.  We trust that this free-will offering meal will be strongly supported through your generosity. 

  • Preceding and continuing throughout the meal is our Silent Auction with nearly 40 baskets displayed and ready for your bids.  You will also have the opportunity to purchase our artist-designed centerpieces which reflect the Nicaraguan heritage of our special family, thanks to the inspiration and leadership of Paulette Bertrand, another Bethlehem member. 

  • At 7 PM, the Silent Auction closes as we transition to the sanctuary to enjoy classical Latin American songs with a mariachi style, courtesy of Luis Orozco.  The evening will conclude with words of gratitude shared by the Cruz family themselves.

It’s now the last call to RSVP online! You can also reserve your spot at no cost by calling Christ the King at 345-5056. 


This week

Wednesday Night Supper: This week we are serving hamburger goulash with salad and roll. Join us at 5:00pm in the lower level. All are welcome.

Join us at 6:15 in the sanctuary each Wednesday in Lent for a guest preacher exploring the topic of Hope. Preaching Schedule: 

  • March 26 - Pastor Jacie Richmond 

  • April 2 - Pastor Heather Hammond

  • April 9 - Pastor Roger Haug


Family Faith Formation

BLC Youth Night for 5th-12th Grade Youth. Sign up here by March 26th: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/form/YouthEvent1

BLC Family Easter Egg Hunt coming up on Saturday, April 12th. Requesting candy donations to fill eggs! Drop off in the main office by April 6th. Thank you!


Announcements

Kato Sleep-Out 2025

Join us for the 2025 Kato Sleep-Out fundraiser to support Connections Shelter. Give your donations to Bob Ihrig for Team Bethlehem! Help us to Three-Peat as the top team for financial donations again. You can make a difference! Volunteer to sleep-out on April 25 as a Bethlehem team member. Contact Bob Ihrig if interested and available to join Pr. Jacie.

Join Us in Serving Students Through Campus Cupboard!

Crossroads Campus Ministry is looking for dedicated volunteers to help with our Campus Cupboard Food Pantry! This vital ministry provides food and essential items to students in need, ensuring they have the support necessary to focus on their education.

  • We need volunteers to assist with:

  • Stocking and restocking shelves

  • Helping students find products

  • Organizing inventory

  • Giving tours to new registrants

  • Assisting with checkout

Your time and effort make a real difference! Whether you can help weekly or occasionally, we’d love to have you join us. The Campus Cupboard thrives because of volunteers like YOU!

Location: Crossroads Campus Ministry- 331 Dillon Ave. Mankato, MN 56001
Flexible shifts available

Interested? Contact Pastor Jenna Couch (pastorjenna@gmail.com) or stop by to learn more!


Monthly mission partner

Our March monthly mission partner is THEE Alliance for Forgiving Medical Debt. Their mission is to combine expertise and compassion. $1 forgives $100 of financial hardship family debt. Many people are just one medical emergency away from a financial crisis. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Al Rossow Gail Ihrig

Pastor Jay Dahlvang Steven Chima Peggy Schulze

The families & friends of Joan Stoffel and Florence Sassenberg

Grace Lutheran in Albert Lea First Lutheran in Blooming Prairie

Christ the King Lutheran in Mankato Solo Por Fe Lutheran in Colombia

Mazoezi Kikio Lutheran in Tanzania Yerusalemu Ilunda Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

March 26, Mark 14:1-11

March 30, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32


BLC Weekly, March 17

Hello Bethlehem,

This weekend Bethlehem will be hosting Ignite: Via de Cristo, a weekend designed to strengthen and renew the faith of Christian people and bring them to a new awareness of living in God’s grace. A Via de Cristo weekend begins on Thursday evening and ends on Sunday evening. There is music and singing, food and fellowship, a time for laughter and a time for prayer. Christians of all denominations are welcome. The objective of the movement is to inspire, challenge and equip people for Christian action in their homes, churches and communities. Via de Cristo is the adult-version of TEC, or Teens Encounter Christ. Contact the Wagners or Marian Mallory if you are interested in attending or learning more about this event.


This week

The Lincoln Park Neighborhood Association will meet tonight at 6:30 PM in Grounds for Joy. Bethlehem members are welcome to attend and learn more about our neighborhood community. 

Wednesday Night Supper: This week we are serving lasagna with salad and rolls. Join us at 5:00pm in the lower level. All are welcome.

Join us at 6:15 in the sanctuary each Wednesday in Lent for a guest preacher exploring the topic of Hope. Preaching Schedule: 

  • March 19 - Pastor Becky Sullivan 

  • March 26 - Pastor Shelly Olson

  • April 2 - Pastor Heather Hammond

  • April 9 - Pastor Roger Haug

Prayer Shawl Makers will meet in the library this Thursday from 6:00-8:00 PM. Knitters, crocheters and beginners are welcome! 

BLC Men are taking a Schell’s Brewery tour this Saturday! Email Pastor Jay for details. 

Adult forum

March 23 - Caring Circle for Community Connections

NicBluCares is the national pilot of a successful worldwide movement called ‘Compassionate Communities’. The people of Nicollet and Blue Earth Counties in Minnesota are building a safety net of community support, strengthening our compassion and capacity to care for one another in difficult times. 

A Compassionate Community acknowledges that the care for one another during life’s most challenging moments is not solely a task for medical and social services but is everyone’s responsibility. We belong. We take care of each other.

Join Mary Ann Boe this coming Sunday, March 23 at 10:45 am in Grounds for Joy to learn about 'Compassionate Communities' and the activities of NicBluCares in the greater Mankato area community. Enjoy coffee and conversation with our speakers and other Bethlehem members. 


Family Faith Formation

Yesterday our 4th graders had their communion retreat here at Bethlehem. They designed chalices, baked communion bread and learned about the practice of communion.

BLC Family Easter Egg Hunt coming up on Saturday, April 12th. Requesting candy donations to fill eggs! Drop off in the main office by April 6th. Thank you!

BLC Youth Night for 5th-12th Grade Youth. Sign up here by March 26th: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/form/YouthEvent1

Torchlight, Nightlight, and LIGHT kids are preparing to lead us in worship on Palm Sunday!


Announcements

Meet Your Neighbors!

The New Compassionate Community Center at Emy Frentz Art Building - 523 S 2nd Street. "The Compassionate Community Center provides community-driven, non-medical holistic care and comfort support for individuals and their families facing end of life. Rooted in the belief that everyone has a role to play, the Center fosters learning and service, grounded in kindness and shared humanity."

Breakfast with the Bishop:

The SE MN Lutheran Men in Mission Board is sponsoring Breakfast with the Bishop on Saturday, April 26th  at 9:00 AM at Cabela’s Owatonna. Everyone, and especially young men, are invited to attend this special event. Asst. to the Bishop, Matt Larson will be sharing a Devotion. John Sundquist, Executive Director of Lutheran Men in Mission (LMM), will be the Keynote Speaker.  Cost: $15/person (under 20 yrs. Old $10) Send reservations and check by Friday, April 18 to:
Russell Tesch 906 4th Ave SE Waseca, MN 56093


Fiesta of Joy

Thursday, April 3rd from 5 to 8 pm at Christ the King

RSVP online or by calling Christ the King at 345-5056 by March 23rd. The WELCOME Committee is already floored by the generosity and creativity of our basket donors! If you are donating items or a basket, please drop off your items in the BLC office by March 23rd. 

Event Details:

  • Celebrity Chef Jordan Mendez, owner/manager of Mazatlan, has partnered with Bethlehem member Jim Christensen to create a truly authentic south of the border meal of chicken breasts smothered in fajita seasoned vegetables, complimented by a simple lettuce salad and the traditional beans and rice.  We trust that this free-will offering meal will be strongly supported through your generosity. 

  • Preceding and continuing throughout the meal is our Silent Auction with nearly 40 baskets displayed and ready for your bids.  You will also have the opportunity to purchase our artist-designed centerpieces which reflect the Nicaraguan heritage of our special family, thanks to the inspiration and leadership of Paulette Bertrand, another Bethlehem member. 

  • At 7 PM, the Silent Auction closes as we transition to the sanctuary to enjoy classical Latin American songs with a mariachi style, courtesy of Luis Orozco.  The evening will conclude with words of gratitude shared by the Cruz family themselves.

Pastor Jacie said it best:  The Welcome Team “believes that all people who are fleeing violence, poverty and environmental injustices should be allowed to seek new lives for themselves where they are better able to receive those basic human rights.” We hope to see you there!

-The WELCOME Team


Monthly mission partner

Our March monthly mission partner is THEE Alliance for Forgiving Medical Debt. Their mission is to combine expertise and compassion. $1 forgives $100 of financial hardship family debt. Many people are just one medical emergency away from a financial crisis. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Al Rossow Gail Ihrig

Rita Gibbs Pastor Jay Dahlvang

The family & friends of Joan Stoffel

Urland Lutheran in Cannon Falls First of Highland Lutheran in Lanesboro

North Prairie Lutheran in Lanesboro Lutheran School of Theology (IELCO) in Bogota

Iguguno Lutheran in Tanzania The True Vine Ministry in Colombia Zion Lutheran in Stewartville

Lectionary Readings

March 19, 1 Peter 3:15b-16a

March 23, Luke 13:1-9


BLC Weekly, March 10

Hello Bethlehem,

Lenten worship services begin this week. Join us at 6:15 in the sanctuary each Wednesday in Lent for a guest preacher exploring the topic of Hope. 

Lent Preaching Schedule: 

  • March 12 - Pastor Dennis Frank

  • March 19 - Pastor Becky Sullivan 

  • March 26 - Pastor Shelly Olson

  • April 2 - Pastor Heather Hammond

  • April 9 - Pastor Roger Haug


This week

Wednesday Night Supper: This week we are serving beef stew, biscuit, and salad. Join us at 5:00pm in the lower level. All are welcome.

Bibles & Brews meets this Thursday, 6:00 PM at Weggy’s. Join Pastor Jacie for meaningful conversation on faith and culture. 


Fat Tuesday Success!

Thank you to everyone who helped out with our annual Fat Tuesday fundraiser! When we’ve calculated everything we will share how much money was raised. Thank you for supporting our youth! 


Family Faith Formation

This Wednesday NightLIGHT and TorchLIGHT will be meeting in the dining room after worship. 7th and 8th grade confirmation students will meet with their mentors in Grounds for Joy. 

Our 4th grade communion retreat is next Sunday from noon to 3:00 PM. Look for an email from Anna this week with details. 


Announcements

Synod Assembly Delegates The SE MN Synod will hold its annual assembly on Friday-Saturday, May 30-31 at the Mayo Event Center in Mankato. Bethlehem is entitled to 2 adult lay delegates and 1 young adult delegate along with our pastors. If you are interested in serving as a delegate, contact Bob Ihrig by Friday, March 14. The Council will approve  BLC delegates at its March 18 meeting.

Our friends at VITA Tax preparation are back in the building and donating their time to help anyone in need of tax preparation assistance. If you know someone who could benefit from their services, their number is (507) 386-5570. 

Breakfast with the Bishop: The SE MN Lutheran Men in Mission Board is sponsoring Breakfast with the Bishop on Saturday, April 26th  at 9:00 AM at Cabela’s Owatonna. Everyone, and especially young men, are invited to attend this special event. Asst. to the Bishop, Matt Larson will be sharing a Devotion. John Sundquist, Executive Director of Lutheran Men in Mission (LMM), will be the Keynote Speaker.  Cost: $15/person (under 20 yrs. Old $10) Send reservations and check by Friday, April 18 to:
Russell Tesch 906 4th Ave SE Waseca, MN 56093


Fiesta of Joy

It’s coming!  Are you ready?

Pastor Jacie said it best:  The Welcome Team “believes that all people who are fleeing violence, poverty and environmental injustices should be allowed to seek new lives for themselves where they are better able to receive those basic human rights.”

 To that end we humbly invite you to join us for “A Fiesta of Joy” on Thursday, April 3rd from 5 to 8 pm at Christ the King Church in Mankato.

Celebrity Chef Jordan Mendez, owner/manager of Mazatlan, has partnered with Bethlehem member Jim Christensen to create a truly authentic south of the border meal of chicken breasts smothered in fajita seasoned vegetables, complimented by a simple lettuce salad and the traditional beans and rice.  We trust that this free-will offering meal will be strongly supported through your generosity. 

Preceding and continuing throughout the meal is our Silent Auction with nearly 40 baskets displayed and ready for your bids.  You will also have the opportunity to purchase our artist-designed centerpieces which reflect the Nicaraguan heritage of our special family, thanks to the inspiration and leadership of Paulette Bertrand, another Bethlehem member. 

At 7 PM, the Silent Auction closes as we transition to the sanctuary to enjoy classical Latin American songs with a mariachi style, courtesy of Luis Orozco.  The evening will conclude with words of gratitude shared by the Cruz family themselves.

In order to prepare enough food, we ask that you RSVP by calling Christ the King at 345-5056 or leave word with our office staff as soon as you can!

- The WELCOME Team


Thank you

“Winter break flew by faster than one can say, "Praise God!," and now we're almost half-way into Spring Term with spring break next week! We are always thrilled to welcome students to Crossroads, and we feel tremendously blessed to have Bethlehem Lutheran Church and your volunteers as partners in our ministry to feed them through our Lunch For-a-Buck program. On Tuesday, March 4th, faithful servants Jan Blaisdell, Alex Blaisdell, and Kathy Piehl prepared and served a student favorite of chicken burritos, bean burritos, tortilla chips & cheese sauce, salad, cookies, and crispy bars to 37 hungry lunch-goers. They also collected $29.20 in donations that will be used to purchase the salad supplies, beverages, dinnerware, and other items for lunches during the school year. God bless you for your generosity and for supporting the students and our ministry at Crossroads.  We look forward to seeing you on April 1st. We couldn't do this without you!”

Have a blessed New Year,

Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry


Monthly mission partner

Our March monthly mission partner is THEE Alliance for Forgiving Medical Debt. Their mission is to combine expertise and compassion. $1 forgives $100 of financial hardship family debt. Many people are just one medical emergency away from a financial crisis. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Al Rossow Gail Ihrig

Joan Stoffel Rita Gibbs Pastor Jay Dahlvang

Urland Lutheran in Cannon Falls First of Highland Lutheran in Lanesboro

North Prairie Lutheran in Lanesboro Lutheran School of Theology (IELCO) in Bogota

Iguguno Lutheran in Tanzania The True Vine Ministry in Colombia Zion Lutheran in Stewartville

Lectionary Readings

March 12, 1 Peter 3:15a-16a

March 16, Luke 13:31-35


BLC Weekly, March 3

You are invited to join us for Ash Wednesday this Wednesday, March 5th. Services will be held at noon and 6:15pm in the sanctuary. 


This week

Our annual Fat Tuesday dinner and silent auction is tomorrow! Join us for a jambalaya dinner and silent auction with proceeds raised to help send our youth to the ELCA Youth Gathering. Tickets will be available at the door if you have not yet purchased them. The online portion of the Silent Auction has concluded; please pick up your items on Tuesday evening if able and come check out the exclusive in-person items. See you tomorrow! 

Wednesday Night Supper: This week we are serving turkey or ham sandwiches with potato salad and pickles. Join us at 5:00pm in the lower level. All are welcome.

Prayer Shawl makers will meet in the library this Thursday from 6:00-8:00pm.


Family faith formation

Lent mentorships begin this week after worship. 

Last week NightLIGHT kiddos took part in burning last year’s Palm Sunday palms to create this year’s Ash Wednesday ashes. 


Announcements

Synod Assembly Delegates The SE MN Synod will hold its annual assembly on Friday-Saturday, May 30-31 at the Mayo Event Center in Mankato. Bethlehem is entitled to 2 adult lay delegates and 1 young adult delegate along with our pastors. If you are interested in serving as a delegate, contact Bob Ihrig by Friday, March 14. The Council will approve  BLC delegates at its March 18 meeting.

The WELCOME Team invites you to Our Grateful Gathering: A Fiesta of Joy, Thursday, April 3rd at Christ the King in Mankato. Join WELCOME for a silent auction, music, programming, and south of the border dinner, with all proceeds supporting  the family’s application for asylum status. Auction baskets and items can be dropped off in the BLC office. The event is free; free will offering is gratefully accepted. Space is limited. Call Christ the King at (507) 345-5056 by March 14th to RSVP. Thank you for supporting our mission of welcome! 

Our friends at VITA Tax preparation are back in the building and donating their time to help anyone in need of tax preparation assistance. If you know someone who could benefit from their services, their number is (507) 386-5570. 

Breakfast with the Bishop: The SE MN Lutheran Men in Mission Board is sponsoring Breakfast with the Bishop on Saturday, April 26th  at 9:00 AM at Cabela’s Owatonna. Everyone, and especially young men, are invited to attend this special event. Asst. to the Bishop, Matt Larson will be sharing a Devotion. John Sundquist, Executive Director of Lutheran Men in Mission (LMM), will be the Keynote Speaker.  Cost: $15/person (under 20 yrs. Old $10) Send reservations and check by Friday, April 18 to:
Russell Tesch 906 4th Ave SE Waseca, MN 56093


Monthly mission partner

Our March monthly mission partner is THEE Alliance for Forgiving Medical Debt. Their mission is to combine expertise and compassion. $1 forgives $100 of financial hardship family debt. Many people are just one medical emergency away from a financial crisis. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Al Rossow Gail Ihrig

Charlene Zimmerman Joan Stoffel

Moscow Lutheran in Austin Trinity Lutheran in Owatonna

Cedar Valley Lutheran in Winona Zumbro Lutheran in Rochester

Gach Jal Lutheran Parish in South Sudan St. Augustine Ngamu Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

March 5, Matthew 6:1-6; 16-21, 1 Peter 3:15b-16a

March 9, Luke 4:1-13


BLC Weekly, February 24

Hello Bethlehem,

Fat Tuesday is just around the corner!

You may have seen all the lovely silent auction baskets we had on display before and after worship on Sunday. If you would like to bid on an item in the Fat Tuesday Silent Auction, click through the photos in the Facebook photo album in the discussion tab of our Facebook event. Comment on an individual picture with your bid. (Note: some items will only be available for bidding during the dinner.) Bidding is open now through next Sunday, March 2nd at 7 pm. If you're nervous about bidding online and would like a staff member to do it on your behalf, just send Anna an email (annawencl@blcmankato.org).

Also, for those who would prefer not to pay for their Fat Tuesday tickets online, we will sell them after worship next Sunday, March 2nd.

And thank you again to all the generous boards, committees, and congregation members who put some much heart and love into the baskets and/or donations. We appreciate you and your generosity!


This week

Wednesday Night Supper: This week we are serving up a taco buffet with rice and beans. Join us at 5:00pm in the lower level. Wednesday night worship begins at 6:15pm in the chapel. All are welcome.

Adult Forum THEE Alliance for Forgiving Medical Debt works to forgive medical debt for Minnesotan families. Since 2020, they have forgiven $108 million dollars for financial hardship families. Join THEE Staff for an adult forum this Sunday, March 2 at 10:45 AM in Grounds for Joy to learn more about their work and how to get involved. 


Family faith formation

Brave Conversations continue this Wednesday. The 5th-8th grade youth and trusted adults will tackle the topic, “How Do We Have Healthy Relationships?” Conversation will be held from 7-8 PM following worship. 

Families with kiddos ages 3-years to 6th grade are invited to Ice Skating at All Seasons Arena on Sunday, March 2nd from 2:00 - 3:30pm. 


Announcements

Synod Assembly Delegates The SE MN Synod will hold its annual assembly on Friday-Saturday, May 30-31 at the Mayo Event Center in Mankato. Bethlehem is entitled to 2 adult lay delegates and 1 young adult delegate along with our pastors. If you are interested in serving as a delegate, contact Bob Ihrig by Friday, March 14. The Council will approve  BLC delegates at its March 18 meeting.

Due to a recent change on Facebook, new livestream videos will only be available for 30 days. Therefore, we are going to begin uploading worship services to YouTube. You can still view livestreams on Facebook, but if you’d like to revisit a worship video after 30 days, please visit our YouTube channel. Thank you! 

The WELCOME Team invites you to Our Grateful Gathering: A Fiesta of Joy, Thursday, April 3rd at Christ the King in Mankato. Join WELCOME for a silent auction, music, programming, and south of the border dinner, with all proceeds supporting  the family’s application for asylum status. Auction baskets and items can be dropped off in the BLC office. The event is free; free will offering is gratefully accepted. Space is limited. Call Christ the King at (507) 345-5056 by March 14th to RSVP. Thank you for supporting our mission of welcome! 

Ash Wednesday is March 5th. Join us for worship services at noon and 6:15pm. 

Our friends at VITA Tax preparation are back in the building and donating their time to help anyone in need of tax preparation assistance. If you know someone who could benefit from their services, their number is (507) 386-5570. 

Breakfast with the Bishop: The SE MN Lutheran Men in Mission Board is sponsoring Breakfast with the Bishop on Saturday, April 26th  at 9:00 AM at Cabela’s Owatonna. Everyone, and especially young men, are invited to attend this special event. Asst. to the Bishop, Matt Larson will be sharing a Devotion. John Sundquist, Executive Director of Lutheran Men in Mission (LMM), will be the Keynote Speaker.  Cost: $15/person (under 20 yrs. Old $10) Send reservations and check by Friday, April 18 to:
Russell Tesch 906 4th Ave SE Waseca, MN 56093


thank you

Thank you to Nick and Linda Frederick for building and providing our beautiful baptism chests! Each child baptized at Bethlehem takes home a handmade chest filled with gifts from our congregation to help begin their journey in faith. Thank you, Fredericks! 


Monthly mission partner

Our February monthly mission is ECHO Food Shelf. Serving our area since 1981, ECHO provides regular food orders, a summer feeding program, home deliveries, and much more. There is minimal paperwork to obtain food and no one is turned away. ECHO serves over 600 families a week. Join us in supporting this vital service and mission in our area. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed at ECHO. Visit their website to volunteer. Our goal is $3,500.You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 

Double your giving! When we give ECHO our donation in March, our dollars will be doubled by matching funds. Donate to this monthly mission and your dollars will go twice as far!


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Al Rossow Gail Ihrig

Charlene Zimmerman Joan Stoffel

Good Shepherd Lutheran in Plainview First English Lutheran in Faribault

Grace Lutheran in Fairmont Nuru Itaja Lutheran in Tanzania

Yiiw Lutheran Parish in South Sudan Mazoezi Muungano Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

February 26, Luke 6:27-38

March 2, Luke 9:28-36

March 5, Matthew 6:1-6; 16-21, 1 Peter 3:15b-16a


Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, February 17

Hello Bethlehem,

The WELCOME Team invites you to Our Grateful Gathering: A Fiesta of Joy, Thursday, April 3rd at Christ the King in Mankato. Join WELCOME for a silent auction, music, programming, and south of the border dinner, with all proceeds supporting  the family’s application for asylum status. 

Auction baskets and items can be dropped off in the BLC office. The event is free; free will offering is gratefully accepted. Space is limited. Call Christ the King at (507) 345-5056 by March 14th to RSVP. Thank you for supporting our mission of welcome! 


This week

Quilters are not meeting tomorrow morning; join them again the first Tuesday in March! 

Wednesday Night Supper: This week we are serving chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, vegetables and roll. Join us at 5:00pm in the lower level. All are welcome.

February 23 Adult Forum Join Chuck Piehl, chairperson of the BLC Endowment Board, as he shares the latest news and activities of the board. Learn about our investment strategy and giving plans to maximize the financial rewards of our endowment fund. We are making a real difference in the lives of individuals and groups in our community.

5th-12th graders and their friends are invited to Wow!Zone Laser Tag on Sunday, February 23rd beginning at 3:00 PM. Sign up online. 


Family faith formation

Families with kiddos ages 3-years to 6th grade are invited to Ice Skating at All Seasons Arena on Sunday, March 2nd from 2:00 - 3:30pm. 

Fat Tuesday is March 4th and dinner tickets are now on sale! We hope you will join us for our annual silent auction and jambalaya dinner, with in-person and takeout meal options. Get your tickets here! The online portion of the silent auction will open on our Facebook event on February 23rd.


The BLC Choir

Announcements

Pastor Kristen Engstrom has moved to Madagascar! Learn more about her journey as an ELCA global missionary in her most recent blog post. 

Ash Wednesday is March 5th. Join us for worship services at noon and 6:15pm. 

Our friends at VITA Tax preparation are back in the building and donating their time to help anyone in need of tax preparation assistance. If you know someone who could benefit from their services, their number is (507) 386-5570. 

Breakfast with the Bishop: The SE MN Lutheran Men in Mission Board is sponsoring Breakfast with the Bishop on Saturday, April 26th  at 9:00 AM at Cabela’s Owatonna. Everyone, and especially young men, are invited to attend this special event. Asst. to the Bishop, Matt Larson will be sharing a Devotion. John Sundquist, Executive Director of Lutheran Men in Mission (LMM), will be the Keynote Speaker.  Cost: $15/person (under 20 yrs. Old $10) Send reservations and check by Friday, April 18 to:
Russell Tesch 906 4th Ave SE Waseca, MN 56093


Monthly mission partner

Our February monthly mission is ECHO Food Shelf. Serving our area since 1981, ECHO provides regular food orders, a summer feeding program, home deliveries, and much more. There is minimal paperwork to obtain food and no one is turned away. ECHO serves over 600 families a week. Join us in supporting this vital service and mission in our area. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed at ECHO. Visit their website to volunteer. Our goal is $3,500.You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 

Double your giving! When we give ECHO our donation in March, our dollars will be doubled by matching funds. Donate to this monthly mission and your dollars will go twice as far!


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Al Rossow Gail Ihrig

Bob Blom Lynor Blom Charlene Zimmerman

Joan Stoffel Warren Beaty

Messiah Lutheran in North Mankato Our Savior’s Lutheran in Faribault

Solor Lutheran in Webster Justice y Vida Ministry in Colombia

Wembere Lutheran in Tanzania Ilongero Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

February 19, Luke 6 17-26

February 23 & 26, Luke 6:27-38


Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, February 10

Hello Bethlehem,

Fat Tuesday is March 4th and dinner tickets are now on sale! We hope you will join us for our annual silent auction and jambalaya dinner, with in-person and takeout meal options. Get your tickets here! Please drop off baskets in the office by Sunday, February 16th. The online portion of the silent auction will open on our Facebook event on February 23rd.


This week

Wednesday Night Supper: This week we are serving spaghetti, garlic toast and salad. Join us at 5:00pm in the lower level. All are welcome. 

Bibles & Brews meets this Thursday, February 13, at 6:00 pm at Weggy’s. Join Pastor Jacie for casual conversations on faith and culture. 

BLC Men will watch MSU Men’s Basketball and then enjoy Jake’s Pizza on Saturday, February 15th. Contact Pastor Jay to join.


Family faith formation

5th-12th graders and their friends are invited to Wow!Zone Laser Tag on Sunday, February 23rd beginning at 3:00 PM. Sign up online. 

Families with kiddos ages 3-years to 6th grade are invited to Ice Skating at All Seasons Arena on Sunday, March 2nd from 2:00 - 3:30pm. 


Announcements

Ash Wednesday is March 5th. Join us for worship services at noon and 6:15pm. 

Our friends at VITA Tax preparation are back in the building and donating their time to help anyone in need of tax preparation assistance. If you know someone who could benefit from their services, their number is (507) 386-5570. 

The WELCOME Team invites you to Our Grateful Gathering: A Fiesta of Joy, Thursday, April 3rd at Christ the King in Mankato. Join WELCOME for a silent auction, music, programming, and south of the border dinner, with all proceeds supporting  the family’s application for asylum status. At this time the WELCOME Team is looking for silent auction items. There are four ways to give: create your own basket, team up with friends to create a basket together, connect with your favorite local businesses to see if they are willing to donate items, or donate new, individual items and the WELCOME Team will incorporate those items into a basket. There will be a basket in the narthex through the month of February to collect auction items, or you can connect with Carrol Meyers-Dobler to give her items directly. Thank you for supporting our mission of welcome!


THank you

Thank you to Bishop Regina Hassanally for joining us on Sunday! The Bishop preached the sermon during worship and then led a Q&A session at the Adult Forum. We appreciate her leadership and wisdom. Thank you, Bishop Hassanally! Learn more about Bishop Hassanally here.

“Winter break flew by faster than the speed of light! We were thrilled to welcome students back to Crossroads on January 13, and we feel tremendously blessed to have Bethlehem Lutheran Church and your volunteers as partners in our ministry to feed hungry students through our Lunch For-a-Buck program. On Tuesday, February 4th, faithful servants Jan Blaisdell, Kathy Piehl, and Sue Larsen, prepared and/or served a delicious meal of chicken fajitas, beans & rice, bean & cheese burritos, salad, and brownies & lemon bars to 51 hungry lunch-goers. They also collected $31.00 in donations that will be used to purchase the salad supplies, beverages, dinnerware, and other items for lunches during the school year. God bless you for your generosity and for supporting the students and our ministry at Crossroads. We look forward to seeing you again on Tuesday, March 4th as we continue feeding the Lord's sheep. We couldn't do this without you!” -Crossroads Campus Ministry


Monthly mission partner

Our February monthly mission is ECHO Food Shelf. Serving our area since 1981, ECHO provides regular food orders, a summer feeding program, home deliveries, and much more. There is minimal paperwork to obtain food and no one is turned away. ECHO serves over 600 families a week. Join us in supporting this vital service and mission in our area. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed at ECHO. Visit their website to volunteer. Our goal is $3,500.You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 

Double your giving! When we give ECHO our donation in March, our dollars will be doubled by matching funds. Donate to this monthly mission and your dollars will go twice as far!


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Al Rossow Gail Ihrig

Bob Blom Lynor Blom Charlene Zimmerman

Dorothy Knedel Joan Stoffel

Pontoppidan Lutheran in Ellendale Vista Lutheran in New Richland

Calvary Lutheran in Mankato Disabilities Learning & Education Ministry in Colombia

Mazoezi Igurubi Lutheran in Tanzania Lutheran Institute Kiomboi in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

February 12, Luke 5:1-11

February 16 & 19, Luke 6 17-26


Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, February 3

Hello Bethlehem,

Bishop Regina Hassanally will be joining us for worship and will lead our Adult Forum this Sunday, February 9th. She has served as Bishop of the Southeastern Minnesota Synod, ELCA since 2019. Learn more about Bishop Hassanally here. We hope you will join us in welcoming Bishop Hassanally to Bethlehem! 


This week

Wednesday Night Supper: this week we are serving chicken, mashed potatoes, salad and rolls, served at 5:00pm in the lower level. All are welcome. 

Prayer Shawl Makers: Knitters, crocheters and learners are invited to join us in the Bethlehem library from 6-8pm again this Thursday to learn to make prayer shawls. You can RSVP to Marcia Nagel at (507) 420-9692. Please bring a #10 ½ or #11 30-36 inch circular knitting needle OR size K, L or M (7.0, 8.0, 9.0 mm) crochet hook. All skill levels and beginners are welcome!

Our friends at VITA Tax preparation are back in the building and donating their time to help anyone in need of tax preparation assistance. If you know someone who could benefit from their services, their number is (507) 386-5570. 


Family faith formation

Camp Youth sharing a song during worship on Sunday.

We’ll celebrate Camp Week again during worship this Wednesday.

5th-12th graders and their friends are invited to Wow!Zone Laser Tag on Sunday, February 23rd beginning at 3:00 PM. Sign up online. 

Families with kiddos ages 3-years to 6th grade are invited to Ice Skating at All Seasons Arena on Sunday, March 2nd from 2:00 - 3:30pm. 

Fat Tuesday is March 4th! We hope you will join us for our annual silent auction and jambalaya dinner. Tickets are available here. The online portion of the silent auction will open on our Facebook event on February 23rd! 


Announcements

Prayer for Black History Month, from the ELCA

The WELCOME Team invites you to Our Grateful Gathering: A Fiesta of Joy, Thursday, April 3rd at Christ the King in Mankato. Join WELCOME for a silent auction, music, programming, and south of the border dinner, with all proceeds will support the family’s application for asylum status. At this time the WELCOME Team is looking for silent auction items. There are four ways to give: create your own basket, team up with friends to create a basket together, connect with your favorite local businesses to see if they are willing to donate items, or check your home for great condition items you no longer use, and the WELCOME Team will incorporate those items into a basket. There will be a basket in the narthex through the month of February to collect auction items, or you can connect with Carrol Meyers-Dobler to give her items directly. Thank you for supporting our mission of welcome!

Upcoming events: Bibles & Brews meets February 13 and BLC Men will watch MSU Men’s Basketball and enjoy Jake’s Pizza on February 15th. 


THank you

Thank you to all our wonderful volunteers who gave their Saturday morning to clean the church kitchens. Special thanks to Cindy Zacharias for organizing. The church was left absolutely sparkling. We are so grateful for these wonderful stewards of our lovely building. 


Monthly mission partner

Our February monthly mission is ECHO Food Shelf. Serving our area since 1981, ECHO provides regular food orders, a summer feeding program, home deliveries, and much more. There is minimal paperwork to obtain food and no one is turned away. ECHO serves over 600 families a week. Join us in supporting this vital service and mission in our area. Volunteers are always needed and welcomed at ECHO. Visit their website to volunteer. Our goal is $3,500.You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Al Rossow

Garness Trinity Lutheran in Mabel Cannon River Lutheran in Welch

St. John Lutheran in Montgomery Bricelyn Lutheran in Bricelyn

Ruruma Lutheran in Tanzania Pulguori Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Lectionary Readings

February 5, Luke 4:21-30

February 9 & 12, Luke 5:1-11


Bethlehem LutheranComment