Hello Bethlehem,

Christ is risen! We hope you had a wonderful Easter celebration. Special thanks to the many leaders, volunteers and musicians who assisted with our worship service. A recording of Bethlehem’s Easter Sunday Worship is available on our YouTube channel.

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This week

Wednesday Night Suppers: served at 5:00pm in the lower level dining hall. All are welcome. Donations accepted; this meal is FREE! Upcoming meals:

• April 8 — Spaghetti, garlic toast & salad

• April 15 — Chicken, mashed potatoes, veggie & roll

• April 22 — Hamburger/Cheeseburger, cold pasta salad & chips

• April 29 — Ham/turkey sandwich, potato salad & pickles

• May 6 — End of the year picnic at Spring Lake Park, Shelter 1

Bibles & Brews meets this Thursday, 6-8pm at Weggy’s. Join Pastor Jacie and BLC friends for conversations on faith and culture.

Adult Forum: Join us April 12 for a Semi-Annual Meeting Preview and a chance to learn about Bethlehem’s Small Groups. We will gather at 10:45 in Grounds for Joy. The Semi-Annual Meeting will be held at 10:45am in the lower level dining hall. Quorum needed; donuts provided. We will see you there!

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semi-annual meeting — April 19

Bethlehem will hold its spring semi-annual meeting on Sunday, April 19 at 10:45 am in the Dining Room.  The election of new Council and board/committee members will take place along with the presentation of annual reports and discussion of other important topics. Please review the following documents available on our website on the Council Documents page as background for this meeting:

• Agenda

• Election Ballot

• Annual Reports

We look forward to seeing you at the meeting. We need a quorum of 75 members in attendance to conduct official business. Donuts provided!

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family Faith formation

• Registration is now open for Service & Sun and the Youth Lock-In!

• Youth Bible Study: This Wednesday, 2-3:30pm at Mom & Pop’s. Contact Anna to RSVP

• Our annual Cinnamon Roll Fundraiser is Sunday, May 3rd. Keep an eye out for pre-order forms to reserve a tray!

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Announcements

Bethlehem Wants YOU! Bethlehem is looking for motivated and dedicated members interested in serving on the following boards and committees for next year:

• Children's

• Community & Global Missions

• Nominating

• Welcome & Inclusion

• Youth

The Spring Musicorum Concert will be held at Bethlehem on April 18th.

If you would like to serve Bethlehem on one of these groups, contact Bob Ihrig at: robert.ihrig1@gmail.com or 507-388-1953. We would love to add your name to one of these leadership groups for our church. YOU can help to make a difference in 2026-27!

Beware of scams: We have been alerted to instances of Bethlehem Staff and Council members being impersonated through texts and email requesting donations. Bethlehem Pastors and leaders will never solicit funds online or via text. Please report any suspicious activity. If you have questions about online giving, please contact our office to confirm legitimacy.

The Bethlehem Endowment Fund Scholarship application form is now live! College students, please apply by May 1 for 2026-2027 scholarships. Scholarship recipients will attend worship on June 7th to receive their scholarship.

VITA Tax services are taking calls and working in our building this season. If you or someone you know needs to schedule an appointment, call the tax line, which is a separate phone number not affiliated with Bethlehem. Their number is (507) 386-5570

Even as our days are getting longer and warmer, Connections Shelter continues to serve guests through the month of May.  Please consider signing up to serve a meal or provide food. Please follow the link to sign up for providing dessert or any other meal option.

COPAL extends thanks to the members of Bethlehem for providing food and support during this time of need.  COPAL is still collecting items on behalf of immigrant families and community members.  Of particular need are the following: Maseca, Instant coffee, Rice, Beans - Black, Red, Pinto, Sugar, Salt, Boxed milk, Toilet paper

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our April Monthly Mission Partner is the WELCOME Team. This team is a partnership between 5 local ELCA Lutheran churches who have been sponsoring a family seeking legal asylum in the United States for the past 3 years. The team is continuing to help the family navigate ever challenging times as they continue forward in their immigration process. The family continues to live each day with hope that God will continue to provide for them through the love and support of this community. Your support and prayers are greatly appreciated by the family! You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Susan Brown

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Gatchang Duach

Dee Saman 

Family & Friends of Natalie Brase & Joyce Heinis

We pray for peace and justice in all places.

Lectionary Readings

April 8, Matthew 28:1-10

April 12 & 15, John 20:19-31

Hello Bethlehem,

Thank you for joining us for Palm Sunday Worship, led by the BLC Youth and Children. Join us for Holy Week worship services:

• Maundy Thursday Worship — 6:15pm April 2

• Good Friday Worship — 6:15pm April 3

• Easter Sunday Worship — 9:30am April 5

Enjoy some photos from an exciting weekend with Bethlehem!

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This week

Tuesday, March 31, is the Trans Day of Visibility. All are welcome to join PRISM for a Community Fair, Dinner and Speaker in St. Peter tomorrow evening. More information is available at prismorganizing.org Register online.

Reminder: No Wednesday Night Supper, worship or activities this week! Join us instead for Maundy Thursday and Good Friday worship services, both at 6:15pm and streamed on our Facebook page.

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family Faith formation

We celebrated our 4th grade communion milestone on Sunday!

Registration is now open for Service & Sun and the Youth Lock-In!

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Announcements

Bethlehem Wants YOU! Bethlehem is looking for motivated and dedicated members interested in serving on the following boards and committees for next year:

• Children's

• Community & Global Missions

• Nominating

• Welcome & Inclusion

• Youth

If you would like to serve Bethlehem on one of these groups, contact Bob Ihrig at: robert.ihrig1@gmail.com or 507-388-1953. We would love to add your name to one of these leadership groups for our church. YOU can help to make a difference in 2026-27!

The Semi-Annual Meeting is on April 19th! Join us April 12 for a Semi-Annual Meeting Preview and a chance to learn about Bethlehem’s Small Groups. We will gather at 10:45 in Grounds for Joy. The Semi-Annual Meeting will be held at 10:45am in the lower level dining hall. Quorum needed; donuts provided. We will see you there!

Beware of scams: We have been alerted to instances of Bethlehem Staff and Council members being impersonated through texts and email requesting donations. Bethlehem Pastors and leaders will never solicit funds online or via text. Please report any suspicious activity. If you have questions about online giving, please contact our office to confirm legitimacy.

The Bethlehem Endowment Fund Scholarship application form is now live! College students, please apply by May 1 for 2026-2027 scholarships. Scholarship recipients will attend worship on June 7th to receive their scholarship.

VITA Tax services are taking calls and working in our building this season. If you or someone you know needs to schedule an appointment, call the tax line, which is a separate phone number not affiliated with Bethlehem. Their number is (507) 386-5570

Even as our days are getting longer and warmer, Connections Shelter continues to serve guests through the month of May.  Please consider signing up to serve a meal or provide food. Please follow the link to sign up for providing dessert or any other meal option.

COPAL extends thanks to the members of Bethlehem for providing food and support during this time of need.  COPAL is still collecting items on behalf of immigrant families and community members.  Of particular need are the following: Maseca, Instant coffee, Rice, Beans - Black, Red, Pinto, Sugar, Salt, Boxed milk, Toilet paper

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our March Monthly Mission Partner is House of Hope. Founded in 1971 in Mankato, House of Hope provides integrated, non-residential treatment for those seeking to address substance use and mental health issues. With caring and accompanying staff, those seeking staff receive comprehensive assessments and recommendations for recovery. The goal is to increase client capacity for ongoing recovery. Bethlehem’s Endowment Board is matching donations in March, so give today and your dollars will go twice as far! You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

Our April Monthly Mission Partner is the WELCOME Team. This team is a partnership between 5 local ELCA Lutheran churches who have been sponsoring a family seeking legal asylum in the United States for the past 3 years. The team is continuing to help the family navigate ever challenging times as they continue forward in their immigration process. The family continues to live each day with hope that God will continue to provide for them through the love and support of this community. Your support and prayers are greatly appreciated by the family!

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Susan Brown

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Our Savior’s Lutheran in Austin

Faith Lutheran in Janesville

St. John Evangelical Lutheran in Waseca

Yiiw Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Kinambeu Lutheran in Tanzania

Castillo Fuerte Lutheran in Colombia

Lectionary Readings

Maundy Thursday — April 2, John 13:1-17,31b-35

Good Friday — April 3, John 18:1-19

Easter Sunday — April 5, Matthew 28:1-10

Hello Bethlehem,

Lenten Wednesday worship services will conclude this week. We have enjoyed coming together each week as a different area preacher explores a question around the theme, “I’ve been meaning to ask you.” Our final preacher is Bethlehem’s own Pastor Jay Dahlvang, exploring the question, “What are you looking for?” Wednesday night worship services begin at 6:15pm and will be livestreamed on the Bethlehem Facebook page.

Join us this Sunday, March 29, for Palm Sunday worship at 9:30am led by BLC Youth and Children. Here is Bethlehem’s Holy Week Schedule:

• Maundy Thursday Worship — 6:15pm April 2

• Good Friday Worship — 6:15pm April 3

• Easter Sunday Worship — 9:30am April 5

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This Week

Wednesday Night Suppers: served at 5:00pm in the lower level dining hall. Upcoming meals:

• March 25 — Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, veggies and roll

• April 1 — Holy Week — No Meal

• April 8 — Spaghetti, garlic toast & salad

• April 15 — Chicken, mashed potatoes, veggie & roll

• April 22 — Hamburger/Cheeseburger, cold pasta salad & chips

• April 29 — Ham/turkey sandwich, potato salad & pickles

• May 6 — End of the year picnic, offsite

Easter Flower Orders due soon! Pick up at the Welcome Kiosk or order your flowers online by March 29th. 

Bethlehem members are invited to join an ecumenical Palm Sunday Path next Sunday afternoon. Area Christians are invited to gather and affirm their Christian values as Jesus defines them in Matthew 25:31-46 on this prayer walk. We will depart from Grace Lutheran Church at 2pm and walk to the City of Mankato Intergovernmental Center.

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Welcome new members

On Sunday, March 22, Bethlehem welcomed these new members. We give thanks for them and welcome them into the Bethlehem community!

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family Faith formation

We had so much fun at our FLIGHT K&G Gymnastics event this weekend!

Upcoming Events:

• March 28 — BLC Family Easter Egg Hunt

• March 29 — Youth-Led Palm Sunday Worship

• April 8 — Youth Bible Study at Mom & Pop’s

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Announcements

The Bethlehem Endowment Fund Scholarship application form is now live! College students, please apply by May 1 for 2026-2027 scholarships. Scholarship recipients will attend worship on June 7th to receive their scholarship.

VITA Tax services are taking calls and working in our building this season. If you or someone you know needs to schedule an appointment, call the tax line, which is a separate phone number not affiliated with Bethlehem. Their number is (507) 386-5570

Even as our days are getting longer and warmer, Connections Shelter continues to serve guests through the month of May.  Please consider signing up to serve a meal or provide food. Please follow the link to sign up for providing dessert or any other meal option.

COPAL extends thanks to the members of Bethlehem for providing food and support during this time of need.  COPAL is still collecting items on behalf of immigrant families and community members.  Of particular need are the following: Maseca, Instant coffee, Rice, Beans - Black, Red, Pinto, Sugar, Salt, Boxed milk, Toilet paper

---

Monthly Mission Partner

Our March Monthly Mission Partner is House of Hope. Founded in 1971 in Mankato, House of Hope provides integrated, non-residential treatment for those seeking to address substance use and mental health issues. With caring and accompanying staff, those seeking staff receive comprehensive assessments and recommendations for recovery. The goal is to increase client capacity for ongoing recovery. Bethlehem’s Endowment Board is matching donations in March, so give today and your dollars will go twice as far! You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Susan Brown

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

The families & friends of Gerry Morris and Jan Prouse

Fountain Lutheran in Fountain

First Evangelical Lutheran in Kenyon

Greenfield Lutheran in Harmony

Kaselya Lutheran in Tanzania

Kisonga Lutheran in Tanzania

Ulemo Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

March 25, John 1:35-51

Palm Sunday — March 29, Matthew 26:14-27:66

Maundy Thursday — April 2, John 13:1-17,31b-35

Good Friday — April 3, John 18:1-19

Easter Sunday — April 5, Matthew 28:1-10

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Resurrection garden created by BLC kiddos.

Hello Bethlehem,

Lenten Wednesday worship services continue this week with Holden Evening Prayer with the BLC Praise Band and a rotation of area pastors exploring the theme, “I’ve been meaning to ask you.”

• March 18 - Pastor Jacie Richmond “What Do You Need?”

• March 25 - Pastor Jay Dahlvang “What Are you Looking For?”

Wednesday night worship services begin at 6:15pm and will be livestreamed on the Bethlehem Facebook page during Lent.

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This Week

The Lincoln Park Community Meeting is tonight at 6:30 PM in Grounds for Joy. This meeting will be shortened as attendees will be heading across the street to tour 729 S. 2nd St., one of the oldest church building structures of Mankato which has been refurbished and repurposed.    

Wednesday Night Suppers: served at 5:00pm in the lower level dining hall. Upcoming meals:

• March 18 — Hamburger goulash, salad & roll

• March 25 — Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, veggies and roll

• April 1 — Holy Week — No Meal

• April 8 — Spaghetti, garlic toast & salad

• April 15 — Chicken, mashed potatoes, veggie & roll

• April 22 — Hamburger/Cheeseburger, cold pasta salad & chips

• April 29 — Ham/turkey sandwich, potato salad & pickles

• May 6 — End of the year picnic, offsite

Prayer Shawl Makers are meeting this Thursday, 2-4pm in the library. Crocheters, knitters, learners and crafters are welcome!

Adult Forums: Join us Sundays at 10:45am in Grounds for Joy for coffee, donuts and conversation. This Sunday March 22, join us as we hear from Pastor Jacie and our WELCOME team members share an update on the Cruz family and their asylum journey. There is much to learn given the immigration controversy in Minnesota during the past two months. The coffee pot will be on and donuts waiting for you starting at 10:30 am. The forum will begin at 10:45 am. See you in Grounds for Joy

New Member Orientation: March 22. We are excited to welcome our new members! Contact the office or one of the pastors if you are interested in becoming a member of Bethlehem.

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family Faith formation

We have a lot of fun opportunities coming up for our children, youth and families!

• March 22 FLIGHT Event — Jump & Play at K&G Gymnastics

• March 28 — BLC Family Easter Egg Hunt

• March 29 — Palm Sunday Worship

• April 8 — Youth Bible Study at Mom & Pop’s

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Announcements

The Bethlehem Endowment Fund Scholarship application form is now live! College students, please apply by May 1 for 2026-2027 scholarships. Scholarship recipients will attend worship on June 7th to receive their scholarship.

Easter Flower Order forms are now available! Pick up at the Welcome Kiosk or order your flowers online by March 29th. 

VITA Tax services are taking calls and working in our building this season. If you or someone you know needs to schedule an appointment, call the tax line, which is a separate phone number not affiliated with Bethlehem. Their number is (507) 386-5570

COPAL extends thanks to the members of Bethlehem for providing food and support during this time of need.  COPAL is still collecting items on behalf of immigrant families and community members.  Of particular need are the following: Maseca, Instant coffee, Rice, Beans - Black, Red, Pinto, Sugar, Salt, Boxed milk, Toilet paper

Online giving just got easier. Bethlehem now has Venmo! You can find us @BLCMankato to pay for tickets, fundraisers or make your offering online. Just note what your giving is for in the transaction description. Please note, online and automatic giving through Breeze is still available and not going anywhere!

Even as our days are getting longer and warmer, Connections Shelter continues to serve guests through the month of May.  Please consider signing up to serve a meal or provide food. Please follow the link to sign up for providing dessert or any other meal option.

---

Monthly Mission Partner

Our March Monthly Mission Partner is House of Hope. Founded in 1971 in Mankato, House of Hope provides integrated, non-residential treatment for those seeking to address substance use and mental health issues. With caring and accompanying staff, those seeking staff receive comprehensive assessments and recommendations for recovery. The goal is to increase client capacity for ongoing recovery. Bethlehem’s Endowment Board is matching donations in March, so give today and your dollars will go twice as far! You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Gerry Morris

Susan Brown

Roger Pipes

St. Paul Evangelical in Lewiston

Spring Garden Lutheran in Cannon Falls

Mansfield Lutheran in Alden

Grace Lutheran in Austin

Palliative Care Program at Iambi Hospital in Tanzania

CELCO (Colegio de la Evangelica Luterana de Colombia) in Paz de Ariporo

Lectionary Readings

March 18, Job 2:11-13; 2 Timothy 4:9-18

March 22, John 11:1-45

March 25, John 1:35-51

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Hello Bethlehem,

Lenten Wednesday worship services continue this week with Holden Evening Prayer with the BLC Praise Band and a rotation of area pastors exploring the theme, “I’ve been meaning to ask you.”

• March 11 - Pastor Sarah Deutsch “Where Are You From?”

• March 18 - Pastor Jacie Richmond “What Do You Need?”

• March 25 - Pastor Jay Dahlvang “What Are you Looking For?”

Wednesday night worship services begin at 6:15pm and will be livestreamed on the Bethlehem Facebook page during Lent.

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This Week

The Bethlehem Endowment Fund Scholarship application form is now live! College students, please apply by May 1 for 2026-2027 scholarships. Scholarship recipients will attend worship on June 7th to receive their scholarship.

Wednesday Night Suppers: served at 5:00pm in the lower level dining hall. Upcoming meals:

• March 11 — Scalloped potatoes & ham, salad & roll

• March 18 — Hamburger goulash, salad & roll

• March 25 — Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, veggies and roll

• April 1 — Holy Week — No Meal

Bibles & Brews meets Thursday, 6-8pm at Weggy’s for meaningful conversation on faith and culture.

Adult Forums: Join us Sundays at 10:45am in Grounds for Joy for coffee, donuts and conversation. March 15 Forum: Mankato/North Mankato ACT on Alzeheimers with speaker, Sandi (Heaberlin) Lubrant - Team Leader. NOTE: This is a rescheduled forum from February 22. This forum will complement the "Dementia & Aging" forum presented by Jane Unzeitig that day. More to learn about as we all age! Coffee, donuts & conversation will be served starting at 10:30 am with the forum to begin at 10:45 am. Bring your friends and family!

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family Faith formation

The 5th Grade Communion Retreat is March 15! Watch for Anna’s email to RSVP.

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Announcements

New Member Orientation: March 22. Contact Pastor Jay, Pastor Jacie or the BLC office if you are interested in joining Bethlehem and attending the orientation!

Easter Flower Order forms are now available! Pick up at the Welcome Kiosk or order your flowers online by March 29th. 

VITA Tax services are taking calls and working in our building this season. If you or someone you know needs to schedule an appointment, call the tax line, which is a separate phone number not affiliated with Bethlehem. Their number is (507) 386-5570

COPAL extends thanks to the members of Bethlehem for providing food and support during this time of need.  COPAL is still collecting items on behalf of immigrant families and community members.  Of particular need are the following: Maseca, Instant coffee, Rice, Beans - Black, Red, Pinto, Sugar, Salt, Boxed milk, Toilet paper

Online giving just got easier. Bethlehem now has Venmo! You can find us @BLCMankato to pay for tickets, fundraisers or make your offering online. Just note what your giving is for in the transaction description. Please note, online and automatic giving through Breeze is still available and not going anywhere!

Even as our days are getting longer and warmer, Connections Shelter continues to serve guests through the month of May.  Please consider signing up to serve a meal or provide food. Please follow the link to sign up for providing dessert or any other meal option.

Bethlehem, we are headed to the Boundary Waters with the Wilderness Canoe Base once again this summer! This time, we’re opening the trip up to youth AND adults to join. Registration is now open with a $150 deposit due by March 11th. Please contact Anna with any questions. Here is the link to sign up: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/form/BWCA2026

NEW! For adults and families who might want a BWCA experience while staying cabins, we're going to try offering a separate Intergen Camp on the same dates. I haven't confirmed those details yet, but we'll have more info soon. Stay tuned! Contact Anna or Pr. Jacie with any questions.

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Thank you

Spring Break will be here in less than a week, and students are still flocking to our Tuesday lunches! We are thankful and blessed to have Bethlehem Lutheran Church and your volunteers as partners in our ministry to feed students through our Lunch For-a-Buck program. On Tuesday, March 3rd, faithful servants Jan Blaisdell and Sue Larsen served a luncheon that was a hit with all who dined with us. Thirty-five lunch-goers feasted on lasagna, macaroni & cheese, Italian bread, organic spring mix salad, and assorted cookies for dessert. Sue and Jan also collected $22.00 in donations that will be used to purchase the salad supplies, beverages, dinnerware, and other items for lunches during the school year. 

If your congregation is interested in monthly food collections for the Campus Cupboard food shelf, some items we are always in need of include ramen, rice, and spaghetti/pasta. Feminine hygiene products are desperately needed as well.

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, April 7th. We couldn't do what we do without you!! 

Gratefully,

Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our March Monthly Mission Partner is House of Hope. Founded in 1971 in Mankato, House of Hope provides integrated, non-residential treatment for those seeking to address substance use and mental health issues. With caring and accompanying staff, those seeking staff receive comprehensive assessments and recommendations for recovery. The goal is to increase client capacity for ongoing recovery. Bethlehem’s Endowment Board is matching donations in March, so give today and your dollars will go twice as far! You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Gerry Morris

Barb Girtz

Tom Sanger

Audrey Simonson

Pat Nelson

Marilyn Biedscheid

Susan Brown

Roger Pipes

North Prairie Lutheran in Lanesboro

St. Paul Lutheran in Conger

Central Freeborn Lutheran in Albert Lea

St. Paul Kyengege Lutheran in Tanzania

Ishenga Lutheran in Tanzania

Mazoezi Singa Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

March 11, Genesis 2:4b-15; John 1:35-51

March 15, John 9:1-41

March 18, Job 2:11-13; 2 Timothy 4:9-18

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Hello Bethlehem,

Lenten Wednesday worship services continue this week with Holden Evening Prayer with the BLC Praise Band and a rotation of area pastors exploring the theme, “I’ve been meaning to ask you.”

• March 4 - Pastor LaDonna Thomas “Where Does It Hurt?”

• March 11 - Pastor Sarah Deutsch “Where Are You From?”

• March 18 - Pastor Jacie Richmond “What Do You Need?”

• March 25 - Pastor Jay Dahlvang “What Are you Looking For?”

Wednesday night worship services begin at 6:15pm and will be livestreamed on the Bethlehem Facebook page during Lent.

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This Week

Wednesday Night Suppers: served at 5:00pm in the lower level dining hall. Upcoming meals:

• March 4 — Chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, vegetable & roll

• March 11 — Scalloped potatoes & ham, salad & roll

• March 18 — Hamburger goulash, salad & roll

Adult Forums: Join us Sundays at 10:45am in Grounds for Joy for coffee, donuts and conversation. March 8 Forum: Feeding Our Communities Partners (FOCP) will be the topic of Sunday's adult forum at Bethlehem.  Heather Bierer, Community Outreach Coordinator, will share information about the work of this vital local nonprofit dedicated to providing weekend meals to students facing food insecurity. Learn how FOCP is making a real difference for youth and families. Join us for coffee and conversation at 10:30 am after morning worship and the forum at 10:45 am in Grounds for Joy.

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family Faith formation

NightLIGHT and TorchLIGHT resume as usual this week! Lent Mentors and Mentees will meet after worship.

The 5th Grade Communion Retreat is March 15! Look for an email from Anna soon to RSVP.

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Announcements

New Member Orientation: March 22. Contact Pastor Jay, Pastor Jacie or the BLC office if you are interested in joining Bethlehem and attending the New Member Orientation!

Easter Flower Order forms are now available! Pick up at the Welcome Kiosk or order your flowers online by March 29th. 

VITA Tax services are taking calls and working in our building this season. If you or someone you know needs to schedule an appointment, call the tax line, which is a separate phone number not affiliated with Bethlehem. Their number is (507) 386-5570

COPAL extends thanks to the members of Bethlehem for providing food and support during this time of need.  COPAL is still collecting items on behalf of immigrant families and community members.  Of particular need are the following: Maseca, Instant coffee, Rice, Beans - Black, Red, Pinto, Sugar, Salt, Boxed milk, Toilet paper

Online giving just got easier. Bethlehem now has Venmo! You can find us @BLCMankato to pay for tickets, fundraisers or make your offering online. Just note what your giving is for in the transaction description. Please note, online and automatic giving through Breeze is still available and not going anywhere!

Give the gift of time! Whether it is over the holidays or into the new year, Connections Shelter warmly welcomes the volunteer time that you, your family, or small group are able to provide for the guests at Connections.  To sign up to be a Meal Server, please follow this link. Please follow the link to sign up for providing dessert or any other meal option.

Bethlehem, we are headed to the Boundary Waters with the Wilderness Canoe Base once again this summer! This time, we’re opening the trip up to youth AND adults to join. Registration is now open with a $150 deposit due by March 11th. Please contact Anna with any questions. Here is the link to sign up: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/form/BWCA2026

NEW! For adults and families who might want a BWCA experience while staying cabins, we're going to try offering a separate Intergen Camp on the same dates. I haven't confirmed those details yet, but we'll have more info soon. Stay tuned! Contact Anna or Pr. Jacie with any questions.

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Council Corner

February 24 Council Corner Below is the Council Corner for the February 24 meeting of the BLC Council. The Council met one week later than usual to avoid a conflict with Fat Tuesday activities on its usual meeting date. The Corner summarizes the major discussion topics and decisions of the Council. Complete minutes are posted on the BLC website.

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our March Monthly Mission Partner is House of Hope. Founded in 1971 in Mankato, House of Hope provides integrated, non-residential treatment for those seeking to address substance use and mental health issues. With caring and accompanying staff, those seeking staff receive comprehensive assessments and recommendations for recovery. The goal is to increase client capacity for ongoing recovery. Bethlehem’s Endowment Board is matching donations in March, so give today and your dollars will go twice as far! You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Gerry Morris

Barb Girtz

Lori Ruthenbeck

Tom Sanger

Fred Gruhlke

St. Luke Lutheran in Goodhue

Mabel First Lutheran in Mabel

St. John Lutheran in Kasson

Pontoppidan Lutheran in Ellendale

Nkonkilangi Lutheran in Tanzania

Mang’onyi Lutheran in Tanzania

Projecting My Future Ministry in Colombia

Lectionary Readings

March 4, 1 Samuel 5:1-18; Mark 5:21-43

March 8, John 4:5-42

March 18, Job 2:11-13; 2 Timothy 4:9-18

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Hello Bethlehem,

Lenten Wednesday worship services begin this week with a rotation of area pastors exploring the theme, “I’ve been meaning to ask you.”

• February 25 - Pastor John Odegard “Where Are We Going From Here?”

• March 4 - Pastor LaDonna Thomas “Where Does It Hurt?”

• March 11 - Pastor Sarah Deutsch “Where Are You From?”

• March 18 - Pastor Jacie Richmond “What Do You Need?”

• March 25 - Pastor Jay Dahlvang “What Are you Looking For?”

Wednesday night worship services begin at 6:15pm and will be livestreamed on the Bethlehem Facebook page during Lent.

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This Week

Easter Flower Order forms are now available! Pick up at the Welcome Kiosk or order your flowers online by March 29th. 

VITA Tax services are taking calls and working in our building this season. If you or someone you know needs to schedule an appointment, call the tax line, which is a separate phone number not affiliated with Bethlehem. Their number is (507) 386-5570

No NightLIGHT or TorchLIGHT this week! NightLIGHT and TorchLIGHT will not meet this Wednesday, February 25. Lent mentors and mentees will still meet after worship.

Wednesday Night Suppers: served at 5:00pm in the lower level dining hall. Upcoming meals:

• February 25 — Taco buffet with rice & beans

• March 4 — Chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, vegetable & roll

• March 11 — Scalloped potatoes & ham, salad & roll

• March 18 — Hamburger goulash, salad & roll

Adult Forums: Join us Sundays at 10:45am in Grounds for Joy for coffee, donuts and conversation. This Sunday's adult forum will feature House of Hope with Mark Johnson as our guest speaker. This is your opportunity to learn about all of the good work performed by this vital community asset.  House of Hope is the March monthly mission of the BLC Community & Global Mission Board. YOU can show your support by attending Sunday's forum and providing $$ to fund its work. Every $$ makes a real difference! The Bethlehem Endowment Board will be matching funds in March, so donate in March and your dollars will go twice as far! See you on Sunday, March 1 at 10:30 am for coffee and conversation and at 10:45 am for Mark's presentation. We look forward to seeing you!

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Thank you

Thank you for joining us for another successful Fat Tuesday Dinner & Silent Auction! We had a great evening of food, music and laughs while raising funds for BLC Youth. Thank you to all the youth, volunteers, organizers, and auction donors and bidders!

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Announcements

Synod Assembly Delegates Want to learn more about the work of our ELCA synod in so many vital areas? Want to connect with ELCA members from other congregations in southeastern Minnesota? Want to meet and hear from Bishop Regina Hassanally? Want to make a real difference for your church?  Sign up to be one of 3 BLC delegates to the Saturday, May 2, 2026 SE MN Synod Assembly at the Mayo Civic Center here in Mankato! Contact Bob Ihrig at robert.ihrig1@gmail.com by Friday, March 13. We want YOU!

The Spring Worship Volunteer schedule is now available on our website!

Online giving just got easier. Bethlehem now has Venmo! You can find us @BLCMankato to pay for tickets, fundraisers or make your offering online. Just note what your giving is for in the transaction description. Please note, online and automatic giving through Breeze is still available and not going anywhere!

We are collecting COPAL donations in the narthex! COPAL invites you to join the Shared Table program to feed immigrant families in the Mankato area.

Requested donations include: white rice, dry beans, lentils, pasta, corn flour, canned beans, cooking oil, shelf-stable milk, cereal, salt, spices, canned tomatoes or sauce, hot chocolate, instant coffee, eggs, popcorn packets, tortillas, fruit cups, tuna packets, laundry detergent, dish soap, toilet paper, bar soap, wipes, shampoo, feminine hygiene products, and finally, small notes of encouragement or greeting for the families with just your first name.

Bethlehem, we are headed to the Boundary Waters with the Wilderness Canoe Base once again this summer! This time, we’re opening the trip up to youth AND adults to join. Registration is now open with a $150 deposit due by March 11th. Please contact Anna with any questions. Here is the link to sign up: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/form/BWCA2026

NEW! For adults and families who might want a BWCA experience while staying cabins, we're going to try offering a separate Intergen Camp on the same dates. I haven't confirmed those details yet, but we'll have more info soon. Stay tuned! Contact Anna or Pr. Jacie with any questions.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT More and more members of our community are stepping into caregiving roles. Without support, caregiving can be difficult and isolating. VINE Faith in Action offers four Caregiver Support Groups that are open to anyone caring for a loved one. Groups are limited to 10 participants, so pre-registration is required. There is no charge; donations are appreciated. Please feel welcome to attend one of the following monthly groups:

• 1st Tuesday, 10:00-11:00 am

• 2nd Wednesday, 1:00-2:30 pm

• 3rd Wednesday, 5:15-6:30 pm

• 3rd Thursday, 3:00-4:00 pm

If you prefer to meet one-on-one rather than in a group, VINE also offers Caregiver Consultation. Call or email VINE for consultation and to pre-register for one of the groups, (507) 387-1666, joycek@vinevolunteers.org.

Give the gift of time! Whether it is over the holidays or into the new year, Connections Shelter warmly welcomes the volunteer time that you, your family, or small group are able to provide for the guests at Connections.  To sign up to be a Meal Server, please follow this link. Please follow the link to sign up for providing dessert or any other meal option.

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our February Monthly Mission Partner is ECHO Food Shelf. Born out of a church basement in 1981, ECHO has addressed hunger and food insecurity in our community for decades. In 2025, ECHO distributed 2.5 million pounds of food and tallied over 35,000 family visits. As needs continue to rise, so must our support. February contributions will be amplified with a proportional match during MN FoodShare’s March Campaign. Join us in our goal of raising $5,000 for this vital resource. You can give online or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Gerry Morris

Barb Girtz

Lori Ruthenbeck

Tom Sanger

Fred Gruhlke

St. John Lutheran in Elkton

Trinity Fellowship ELCA in Rushford

Root Prairie Lutheran in Chatfield

Ruruma Lutheran in Tanzania

Bishop Regina Girls Secondary School in Kititimo, Tanzania

Mission of San Juan in Bucaramanga, Colombia

Lectionary Readings

February 25, Ruth 1:1-22; John 10

March 1, John 3:1-17

March 4, 1 Samuel 5:1-18; Mark 5:21-43

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Hello Bethlehem,

Fat Tuesday is tomorrow! Join us in the lower level from 5:30-7:00pm for our annual Dinner & Silent Auction raising money for BLC youth. Forgot to get tickets? No worries! Walk-ins will be accepted at the door. The online portion of the Silent Auction has closed, so come ready to bid on those in-person only items tomorrow night!

Join us for Ash Wednesday worship at 6:15pm this week. Lenten worship services will be livestreamed on the Bethlehem Facebook page.

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This Week

Tuesday: Fat Tuesday Dinner & Silent Auction 5:30-7:00pm

Wednesday Night Suppers: served at 5:00pm in the lower level dining hall. Upcoming meals:

• February 18 — Grilled chicken with a bun, potato salad & pickles

• February 25 — Taco buffet with rice & beans

• March 4 — Chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, vegetable & roll

Ash Wednesday Worship 6:15pm

Thursday: Prayer Shawl Makers and crafters will meet in the Library this Thursday, 2:00-4:00pm.

Adult Forums: Join us Sundays at 10:45am in Grounds for Joy for coffee, donuts and conversation. February 22 Adult Forum: Is It Dementia or Typical Aging? Join Jane Unzeitigd (RN, BSN, Certified Independent Coach) as she explores the many dimensions of aging and dementia at this coming Sunday's adult forum. Have coffee and donuts with us at 10:30 and join the forum conversation with Jane at 10:45 am in Grounds for Joy. We look forward to seeing all of you! 

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Thank you

Thank you for joining us at our Mortgage Pay Off Celebration! We gathered on Sunday after worship to burn the mortgage and enjoy a meal and brief program celebrating this incredible occasion. A video of the program is available on our YouTube channel.

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Family Faith formation

Lent Mentorships begin this week after Ash Wednesday worship. NightLIGHT and TorchLIGHT will continue to meet throughout Lent, except for next Wednesday, February 25.

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Announcements

The Spring Worship Volunteer schedule is now available on our website!

Online giving just got easier. Bethlehem now has Venmo! You can find us @BLCMankato to pay for tickets, fundraisers or make your offering online. Just note what your giving is for in the transaction description. Please note, online and automatic giving through Breeze is still available and not going anywhere!

We are collecting COPAL donations in the narthex! COPAL invites you to join the Shared Table program to feed immigrant families in the Mankato area.

Requested donations include: white rice, dry beans, lentils, pasta, corn flour, canned beans, cooking oil, shelf-stable milk, cereal, salt, spices, canned tomatoes or sauce, hot chocolate, instant coffee, eggs, popcorn packets, tortillas, fruit cups, tuna packets, laundry detergent, dish soap, toilet paper, bar soap, wipes, shampoo, feminine hygiene products, and finally, small notes of encouragement or greeting for the families with just your first name.

Bethlehem, we are headed to the Boundary Waters with the Wilderness Canoe Base once again this summer! This time, we’re opening the trip up to youth AND adults to join. Registration is now open with a $150 deposit due by March 11th. Please contact Anna with any questions. Here is the link to sign up: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/form/BWCA2026

NEW! For adults and families who might want a BWCA experience while staying cabins, we're going to try offering a separate Intergen Camp on the same dates. I haven't confirmed those details yet, but we'll have more info soon. Stay tuned! Contact Anna or Pr. Jacie with any questions.

Office Volunteers needed. Hours: Tuesdays 1-3:15pm. Sign up to cover the office while Molly Nelson, your Congregational Services Coordinator, attends seminary classes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nxd0zC1srJ9wmMnMgpeWnrHulk3XGNilC67bmT8xi3w/edit?usp=sharing

CAREGIVER SUPPORT More and more members of our community are stepping into caregiving roles. Without support, caregiving can be difficult and isolating. VINE Faith in Action offers four Caregiver Support Groups that are open to anyone caring for a loved one. Groups are limited to 10 participants, so pre-registration is required. There is no charge; donations are appreciated. Please feel welcome to attend one of the following monthly groups:

• 1st Tuesday, 10:00-11:00 am

• 2nd Wednesday, 1:00-2:30 pm

• 3rd Wednesday, 5:15-6:30 pm

• 3rd Thursday, 3:00-4:00 pm

If you prefer to meet one-on-one rather than in a group, VINE also offers Caregiver Consultation. Call or email VINE for consultation and to pre-register for one of the groups, (507) 387-1666, joycek@vinevolunteers.org.

Give the gift of time! Whether it is over the holidays or into the new year, Connections Shelter warmly welcomes the volunteer time that you, your family, or small group are able to provide for the guests at Connections.  To sign up to be a Meal Server, please follow this link. Please follow the link to sign up for providing dessert or any other meal option.

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our February Monthly Mission Partner is ECHO Food Shelf. Born out of a church basement in 1981, ECHO has addressed hunger and food insecurity in our community for decades. In 2025, ECHO distributed 2.5 million pounds of food and tallied over 35,000 family visits. As needs continue to rise, so must our support. February contributions will be amplified with a proportional match during MN FoodShare’s March Campaign. Join us in our goal of raising $5,000 for this vital resource. You can give online or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Gerry Morris

Barb Girtz

Lori Ruthenbeck

Tom Sanger

St. John’s Lutheran in Northfield

Community Lutheran in Geneva

Our Savior’s Lutheran in Cleveland

First Lutheran in Lake City

Dr. Martin Luther Lutheran in Tanzania

Mazoezi Mwankoko Lutheran in Tanzania

Mading Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Lectionary Readings

February 18, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21

February 22, Matthew 4:1-11

February 25, Ruth 1:1-22; John 10

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Hello Bethlehem,

RSVP for February 15 Mortgage Celebration All BLC members are invited to attend the February 15 Mortgage Celebration. This is our opportunity to celebrate the payoff of our mortgage and to envision a future filled with new promise. We thank you for your generous financial support in helping us achieve our payoff goal 13 years early. Kudos to all of you!

To ensure that we have enough food prepared (lasagna, salad, garlic bread) for the luncheon, we ask you to RSVP by Wednesday, February 11. 

Connect with Amy Haigh via phone or text (507) 995-6141 or email haigh29@yahoo.com We look forward to seeing you on Sunday, February 15 for morning worship, the burning of the mortgage outside and the special luncheon and program in our dining room. It will be a great day to celebrate at Bethlehem!

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This Week

High school students are invited to attend the Youth Bible Study with Pastor Jacie and Anna this Wednesday, February 11 from 2-3:00pm at the Fillin Station! Rides from East and West high schools are available, just let Anna know at (507) 213-9276

Wednesday Night Suppers: served at 5:00pm in the lower level dining hall. Upcoming meals:

• February 11 — Spaghetti, garlic toast & salad

• February 18 — Grilled chicken with a bun, potato salad & pickles

• February 25 — Taco buffet with rice & beans

• March 4 — Chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, vegetable & roll

Bibles & Brews meets this Thursday, 6-8pm at Weggy’s. Join Pastor Jacie and your BLC friends for casual conversations on faith and culture.

Adult Forums: Join us Sundays at 10:45am in Grounds for Joy for coffee, donuts and conversation.

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Family Faith formation

Youth will be selling Fat Tuesday Tickets on Sunday after worship, but walk-ins will be accepted next Tuesday! The online portion of the Silent Auction is now live on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/share/1LGjqjG7Jj/) and will be open until this Sunday at 7 pm.

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Announcements

Bethlehem, we are headed to the Boundary Waters with the Wilderness Canoe Base once again this summer! This time, we’re opening the trip up to youth AND adults to join. Registration is now open with a $150 deposit due by March 11th. Please contact Anna with any questions. Here is the link to sign up: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/form/BWCA2026

NEW! For adults and families who might want a BWCA experience while staying cabins, we're going to try offering a separate Intergen Camp on the same dates. I haven't confirmed those details yet, but we'll have more info soon. Stay tuned! Contact Anna or Pr. Jacie with any questions.

Office Volunteers needed. Hours: Tuesdays 9-10:30am and 1-3:15pm. Sign up to cover the office while Molly Nelson, your Congregational Services Coordinator, attends seminary classes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nxd0zC1srJ9wmMnMgpeWnrHulk3XGNilC67bmT8xi3w/edit?usp=sharing

CAREGIVER SUPPORT More and more members of our community are stepping into caregiving roles. Without support, caregiving can be difficult and isolating. VINE Faith in Action offers four Caregiver Support Groups that are open to anyone caring for a loved one. Groups are limited to 10 participants, so pre-registration is required. There is no charge; donations are appreciated. Please feel welcome to attend one of the following monthly groups:

• 1st Tuesday, 10:00-11:00 am

• 2nd Wednesday, 1:00-2:30 pm

• 3rd Wednesday, 5:15-6:30 pm

• 3rd Thursday, 3:00-4:00 pm

If you prefer to meet one-on-one rather than in a group, VINE also offers Caregiver Consultation. Call or email VINE for consultation and to pre-register for one of the groups, (507) 387-1666, joycek@vinevolunteers.org.

NEW! We are collecting COPAL donations in the narthex! COPAL invites you to join the Shared Table program to feed immigrant families in the Mankato area. Find out more by visiting their website.

Give the gift of time! Whether it is over the holidays or into the new year, Connections Shelter warmly welcomes the volunteer time that you, your family, or small group are able to provide for the guests at Connections.  To sign up to be a Meal Server, please follow this link. Please follow the link to sign up for providing dessert or any other meal option.

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Thank you

Happy New Year!! Spring Term began on January 12th, and students arrived hungry! We are thankful and blessed to have Bethlehem Lutheran Church and your volunteers as partners in our ministry to feed students through our Lunch For-a-Buck program. On Tuesday, February 3rd, faithful servants Jan Blaisdell, Karen Sandersfeld, and Sue Larsen prepared and served a luncheon that was an absolute hit with all who dined with us. Thirty lunch-goers feasted on Frito pie, spinach alfredo, buttered Italian bread, organic spring mix salad, and homemade bars and brownies. Jan's Frito pie received rave reviews from the students, and Karen's Norwegian bars were the stuff that dreams are made of! The ladies also collected $26.90 in donations that will be used to purchase the salad supplies, beverages, dinnerware, and other items for lunches during the school year. 

If your congregation is interested in monthly food collections for the Campus Cupboard food shelf, some items we are always in need of include ramen, rice, and spaghetti/pasta. Feminine hygiene products are desperately needed as well.

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 3rd. We couldn't do what we do without you!! 

Gratefully,

Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry

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Minneapolis Synod - Welcome fund

As we’ve seen over the last weeks, the targeting of our immigrant neighbors is only increasing. Our faith and our church’s social teachings call us to respond, to stand with and support our neighbors, and to step boldly into this moment.

The Synod’s Immigration Task Force has developed a Welcome Fund to provide direct financial support to immigrant communities in our Synod. With generous contributions from St. Paul’s Home (a sister organization of San Pablo-St. Paul’s), and matching dollars from the Synod’s Resurrection Fund, we are thrilled to get started with $75,000. We know that the support needed in this moment is significant, and you and your congregation are invited to contribute to this fund. You can send checks to the Minneapolis Area Synod and include Welcome Fund in the designation or donate online.

The Welcome Fund will support mutual aid for immigrant and refugee communities, advocacy efforts related to immigration and immigrant rights, and training opportunities for Minneapolis Area Synod members and congregations working with immigrant communities. Congregations and Synod Authorized Worshipping Communities in the Minneapolis Area Synod can request funding for:

• Mutual aid: addressing basic needs for community members like rent, groceries, child-care, transportation, legal fees, and support for immigrants and those navigating the immigration system.

• Advocacy efforts related to local immigration policy: hosting town halls with elected leaders, letter writing campaigns, or community meetings.

• Training and education: legal observer training, know your rights training, education about immigration policy, etc.

Questions about the Welcome Fund can be directed to the Immigration Task Force co-chairs – Pastor Hierald Osorto and Pastor Rhonda Hlavinka, Assistant to the Bishop for Faith and Neighboring, Nicholas Tangen, or the Synod Treasurer Ross Eichelberger.

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our February Monthly Mission Partner is ECHO Food Shelf. Born out of a church basement in 1981, ECHO has addressed hunger and food insecurity in our community for decades. In 2025, ECHO distributed 2.5 million pounds of food and tallied over 35,000 family visits. As needs continue to rise, so must our support. February contributions will be amplified with a proportional match during MN FoodShare’s March Campaign. Join us in our goal of raising $5,000 for this vital resource. You can give online or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Gerry Morris

Barb Girtz

Lori Ruthenbeck

Sue Bruhn

Gatchang Duach

Tom Sanger

Hayward Lutheran in Hayward

Faith Lutheran in Wabasha

Marshall Lutheran in Adams

Mazoezi Tumuli Lutheran in Tanzania

Asivida Ministry in Colombia

Choma Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

February 11, Matthew 5:13-20

February 15, Matthew 17:1-9

February 18, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21

February 22, Matthew 4:1-11

February 25, Ruth 1:1-22; John 10

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Hello Bethlehem,

Thank you for joining us for RIC Sunday! If you missed this special worship service, we hope you will join us this Wednesday for RIC Wednesday worship at 6:15pm as Bethlehem celebrates 5 years of RIC. You are invited to wear your BLC shirt and bring water from home or a special place to add to the baptismal font during the Thanksgiving for Baptism.

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This Week

Wednesday Night Suppers: served at 5:00pm in the lower level dining hall. Upcoming meals:

• February 4 — Hamburger & rice hotdish, salad & roll

• February 11 — Spaghetti, garlic toast & salad

• February 18 — Grilled chicken with a bun, potato salad & pickles

• February 25 — Taco buffet with rice & beans

• March 4 — Chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, vegetable & roll

BLC Men gather this Saturday, February 7 for a Minneopa Hike. RSVP to Pastor Jay.

Second Harvest Adult Forum - Sunday, February 8 Luisa Trapero, Neighbor Services Outreach Advisor for Second Harvest Heartland, will be with us on Sunday, February 8 for our morning adult forum. Luisa will share information about the history, operations, successes and challenges facing this major food assistance program in Minnesota. Learn how Second Harvest is making a real difference for our fellow Minnesotans facing food insecurity. Join us for coffee, donuts and food for thought from 10:30 - 11:45 in Grounds for Joy.

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Family Faith formation

Fat Tuesday Tickets are now available!

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Announcements

A message from Molly Nelson, your Congregational Services Coordinator at Bethlehem: I am currently attending Wartburg Theological Seminary, and this semester I have a class which will interfere with my Tuesday office hours from 9am-10:30am. I am seeking volunteers to cover the office during that time. On days when there are no office volunteers, the building will be opened at the usual time, but the office may be closed until 10:30am. Thank you, Bethlehem, for your continued support, understanding, and encouragement in my seminary journey. This would not be possible without you. Link to sign up to cover the office Tuesday mornings from 9-10:30am: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1nxd0zC1srJ9wmMnMgpeWnrHulk3XGNilC67bmT8xi3w/edit?usp=sharing

CAREGIVER SUPPORT More and more members of our community are stepping into caregiving roles. Without support, caregiving can be difficult and isolating. VINE Faith in Action offers four Caregiver Support Groups that are open to anyone caring for a loved one. Groups are limited to 10 participants, so pre-registration is required. There is no charge; donations are appreciated. Please feel welcome to attend one of the following monthly groups:

• 1st Tuesday, 10:00-11:00 am

• 2nd Wednesday, 1:00-2:30 pm

• 3rd Wednesday, 5:15-6:30 pm

• 3rd Thursday, 3:00-4:00 pm

If you prefer to meet one-on-one rather than in a group, VINE also offers Caregiver Consultation. Call or email VINE for consultation and to pre-register for one of the groups, (507) 387-1666, joycek@vinevolunteers.org.

COPAL invites you to join the Shared Table program to feed immigrant families in the Mankato area. Find out more by visiting their website.

Save the Date: the Mortgage Payoff Celebration is February 15th!

2025 Contribution Reports have been sent out electronically. If you need a paper, please reach out to the church office.

Help Us Serve More Meals—Your Gift Is Matched! Connections is looking for meal donations and volunteer servers to help nourish our neighbors experiencing homelessness. We have lots of openings in February and March! Can't make a meal or come and serve? We have another option that might be even better: An anonymous donor is matching up to $500 in donations made specifically for meals—doubling your impact!
Donate here: https://connectionsmin.breezechms.com/give/online
Be sure to put #mealmatch in the notes so your gift counts toward the match. Whether you can give, cook, or serve, your support helps ensure no one leaves our doors hungry. Thank you for caring for our community. We could not do this work without all of you!

Minneapolis synod - Welcome fund

As we’ve seen over the last weeks, the targeting of our immigrant neighbors is only increasing. Our faith and our church’s social teachings call us to respond, to stand with and support our neighbors, and to step boldly into this moment.

The Synod’s Immigration Task Force has developed a Welcome Fund to provide direct financial support to immigrant communities in our Synod. With generous contributions from St. Paul’s Home (a sister organization of San Pablo-St. Paul’s), and matching dollars from the Synod’s Resurrection Fund, we are thrilled to get started with $75,000. We know that the support needed in this moment is significant, and you and your congregation are invited to contribute to this fund. You can send checks to the Minneapolis Area Synod and include Welcome Fund in the designation or donate online.

The Welcome Fund will support mutual aid for immigrant and refugee communities, advocacy efforts related to immigration and immigrant rights, and training opportunities for Minneapolis Area Synod members and congregations working with immigrant communities. Congregations and Synod Authorized Worshipping Communities in the Minneapolis Area Synod can request funding for:

• Mutual aid: addressing basic needs for community members like rent, groceries, child-care, transportation, legal fees, and support for immigrants and those navigating the immigration system.

• Advocacy efforts related to local immigration policy: hosting town halls with elected leaders, letter writing campaigns, or community meetings.

• Training and education: legal observer training, know your rights training, education about immigration policy, etc.

Questions about the Welcome Fund can be directed to the Immigration Task Force co-chairs – Pastor Hierald Osorto and Pastor Rhonda Hlavinka, Assistant to the Bishop for Faith and Neighboring, Nicholas Tangen, or the Synod Treasurer Ross Eichelberger.

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our February Monthly Mission Partner is ECHO Food Shelf. Born out of a church basement in 1981, ECHO has addressed hunger and food insecurity in our community for decades. In 2025, ECHO distributed 2.5 million pounds of food and tallied over 35,000 family visits. As needs continue to rise, so must our support. February contributions will be amplified with a proportional match during MN FoodShare’s March Campaign. Join us in our goal of raising $5,000 for this vital resource. You can give online or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Gerry Morris

Barb Girtz

Lori Ruthenbeck

The family & friends of Barbara Ringgenberg

Our Savior’s Lutheran in Rochester

Grace Lutheran in Peterson

St. Michael Lutheran in Waltham

Good Shepherd Lutheran in Rochester

Gambella Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

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

Lectionary Readings

February 4, Matthew 4: 12-23

February 8 & 11, Matthew 5:13-20

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