Bethlehem Lutheran
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BLC Weekly, July 15

Hello Bethlehem,

And they’re off! BLC Youth and chaperones left yesterday for New Orleans. We pray they have a safe, blessed and fun week at the ELCA Youth Gathering! If you want to follow along with their journey, check out the daily event livestream on the ELCA website.

Family faith formation

VBS is almost here! Register today for VBS! All youth ages 3 years to 6th grade are invited to join us July 22-25. Please sign up ASAP so that we can begin getting a head count. Our theme this year is Wholly Holy and together we will remember Jesus’ words from John 10:10b, “I came so everyone would have life, and have it fully.” We will learn about wellness and our connection to God. 

BLC Youth are invited to join us at ValleyFair on August 21. Registration is now open! 

Prayer Partners: pick up cards for your pen pal at the Welcome Kiosk! Contact Anna Wencl with any questions.

The 2nd Annual Women’s Event is scheduled for November 9th. We want your group to join in the fun at a tour of tables! This year’s theme is Warm your Heart with Plaid! Be creative and advertise your group.

  • Bring a plaid tablecloth 

  • Decorate the table with a centerpiece celebrating your group

  • Plates/napkins are provided but optional to bring if your group has something in mind!

Interested? Contact Joy Dykema, dykemajoy@gmail.com

Worship Technology Volunteers wanted! We are looking for folks interested in operating the worship livestream and slideshow. Basic computer skills will get you by, and we will train you! Contact Molly Nelson if interested: mnelson@blcmankato.org

ANNOuncements

We have successfully completed the NEXTREX Recycling Challenge! Please note the collection bins will be returned this week, so please take your future plastic recycling to other NEXTREX recycling collection locations in town, including Cub Foods and HyVee. Thank you for your awesome support! 


Summer Organ Recitals are returning to Bethlehem! Recitals will take place Tuesdays at 12:10pm in the sanctuary, July 16 through August 13. 

  • July 16 -   Thomas Andrews 

  • July 23 -  Kaleb Schmidt  

  • ​July 30 -  John Stender   

  • August 6 - Kraig Windschitl    

  • August 13 - Christine Schulz 

YOU’re Invited

  • NicBluCares will host a Caring Circle centered on grief and loss this evening at 6pm in Grounds for Joy. 

  • The Lincoln Park Neighborhood Association meets this evening, July 15, at 6:30pm in the Heritage Room. BLC members are welcome to attend. 

  • Summer organ recitals at Bethlehem begin this week! Catch Thomas Andrews this Tuesday at 12:10pm in the sanctuary. 

  • Deborah Circle invites you to their Summer Bible Study! Join them this Saturday, July 20, at 10am in Grounds for Joy. Copies of the study will be available for any who don’t have a subscription to Gather magazine. All are welcome, we hope to see you there!

  • Retirement Party for Simon Hernandez! Saturday, July 27th from 1PM - 4PM at the Mapleton Leisure Center 304 2nd Ave NE, Mapleton, MN 56065. The family invites BLC members to come and celebrate this milestone with Simon!

Monthly Mission

Bethlehem’s July Monthly Mission partner is Partners for Housing. For 40 years Partners for Housing has worked to support stable permanent housing for those in need. Blue Earth County has been labeled a “severe cost-burdened county” meaning many in our area spend more than 50% of their household income on housing. Partners for Housing provides emergency shelter and offers affordable transitional and permanent housing, as well as case management and other support services. Our giving goal is $1,300. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the memo line: Monthly Mission, Partners for Housing. Thank you for giving generously. 

Monthly Mission Match! BLC Endowment is currently matching your monthly mission contributions $1 for $1 for the rest of the summer! Designate a special gift to Bethlehem for any or all of these projects and the Endowment Fund will double it!

This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Les Biesterfeld Anna Moses Jim Freyberg

Barb Girtz Mark Woelfel Tracy Carter

Amy Grams Haugesag Michael Buesing Anne Ferris

Nancy Bartell The Kunkel family

The family & friends of Allan Asleson

Trinity Lutheran in Hayfield Bethlehem Lutheran in Lanesboro

Our Savior’s Lutheran in Cleveland Amani Lutheran in Tanzania

Mampanta Lutheran in Tanzania Puma Lutheran in Tanzania


Lectionary Readings

July 21, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56

July 28, John 6:1-21

Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, July 8

Hello Bethlehem,

Register today for VBS! All youth ages 3 years to 6th grade are invited to join us July 22-25. Please sign up ASAP so that we can begin getting a head count. Our theme this year is Wholly Holy and together we will remember Jesus’ words from John 10:10b, “I came so everyone would have life, and have it fully.” We will learn about wellness and our connection to God. Interested in volunteering with VBS? Check out some volunteer and donation opportunities: 

  • Youth and adult VBS volunteers can use this form. 

  • The Wish Tree is up in the narthex! Stop by and see if you’d like to donate something we need. Please drop off donations ASAP so we can start preparations. 

  • If your board or committee would like to sponsor a meal that week, please contact Kaitlin Carter or Anna Wencl for more details. We need sponsors, servers, and cleanup crew.

Family faith formation

Mark your calendar: we’re going to ValleyFair! BLC Youth are invited to join us at ValleyFair on August 21. Keep an eye out for more details! 

Youth Gathering Prayer Partners: pick up cards for your pen pal at the Welcome Kiosk! Contact Anna Wencl with any questions. 

The 2nd Annual Women’s Event is scheduled for November 9th. We want your group to join in the fun at a tour of tables! This year’s theme is Warm your Heart with Plaid! Be creative and advertise your group.

  • Bring a plaid tablecloth 

  • Decorate the table with a centerpiece celebrating your group

  • Plates/napkins are provided but optional to bring if your group has something in mind!

Interested? Contact Joy Dykema, dykemajoy@gmail.com

Worship Technology Volunteers wanted! We are looking for folks interested in operating the worship livestream and slideshow. Basic computer skills will get you by, and we will train you! Contact Molly Nelson if interested: mnelson@blcmankato.org

ANNOuncements

NEXTREX Recycling Challenge Update: Bethlehem joined the NexTrex Recycling Challenge in March. We had 365 days to collect 1,000 lbs of plastic bags and we are thrilled to share that we have already almost met that goal! The receptacle will remain in the library area for a limited time. If you’d like to continue to donate plastic in the future, you can take bags directly to NexTrex recycling locations here in town, including HyVee. Thank you so much for your support!

Summer Organ Recitals are returning to Bethlehem! Recitals will take place Tuesdays at 12:10pm in the sanctuary, July 16 through August 13. 

  • July 16 -   Thomas Andrews 

  • July 23 -  Kaleb Schmidt  

  • ​July 30 -  John Stender   

  • August 6 - Kraig Windschitl    

  • August 13 - Christine Schulz 

Monthly Mission

Monthly Mission Match! BLC Endowment will match your contributions $1 for $1 for the next four Monthly Mission Projects inlcuding: July: Partners for Housing and August: Crossroads Campus Ministry. Designate a special gift to Bethlehem for any or all of these projects and the Endowment Fund will double it!

Bethlehem’s July Monthly Mission partner is Partners for Housing. For 40 years Partners for Housing has worked to support stable permanent housing for those in need. Blue Earth County has been labeled a “severe cost-burdened county” meaning many in our area spend more than 50% of their household income on housing. Partners for Housing provides emergency shelter and offers affordable transitional and permanent housing, as well as case management and other support services. Our giving goal is $1,300. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the memo line: Monthly Mission, Partners for Housing. Thank you for giving generously. 

This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Les Biesterfeld Anna Moses Jim Freyberg

Barb Girtz Mark Woelfel Tracy Carter

Amy Grams Haugesag Michael Buesing Anne Ferris

Nancy Bartell The Kunkel family

Trinity Lutheran in Hayfield Bethlehem Lutheran in Lanesboro

Our Savior’s Lutheran in Cleveland Amani Lutheran in Tanzania

Mampanta Lutheran in Tanzania Puma Lutheran in Tanzania


Lectionary Readings

July 14, Mark 6:14-29

July 21, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56

Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, July 1

Hello Bethlehem,

BLC Youth had a great week at Service & Sun! They spent Monday assembling health kits for Global Health Ministries, then set off for the Kerfoot High Ropes Adventure Course. On Tuesday they did yard work at the Harry Meyering Center before viewing Inside Out 2. On Wednesday they painted at Connections Shelter and went swimming at Spring Lake Park. Thank you to all the youth and volunteers who made this week possible! Check out the photos on our Service & Sun Facebook album. 

Family faith formation

Register today for VBS! All youth ages 3 years to 6th grade are invited to join us July 22-25. Please sign up soon so that we can begin getting a head count. Our theme this year is Wholly Holy and together we will remember Jesus’ words from John 10:10b, “I came so everyone would have life, and have it fully.” We will learn about wellness and our connection to God. Interested in volunteering with VBS? Check out options in the Volunteer Opportunities section below!

Mark your calendar: we’re going to ValleyFair! BLC Youth are invited to join us at ValleyFair on August 21. Keep an eye out for more details! 

Youth Gathering Prayer Partners: pick up cards for your pen pal at the Welcome Kiosk! Contact Anna Wencl with any questions. 

Crisis Nursery On-Call Volunteers Needed! Keeping children safe & promoting child & family well-being are the primary goals of the Crisis Nursery (CN). We provide short-term childcare when families are experiencing stress.

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota CN volunteers answer calls during non-business hours.  Volunteers take incoming calls, listen non-judgmentally, gather data, share resource information &, when appropriate, arrange for placement with one of our foster / day care providers or childcare centers.  All contact between families & volunteers is via technology - normally phone, but sometimes text & e-mail. This volunteer position can be done from your home! 

 Volunteers need:

  • To understand & follow data privacy rules

  • Professional boundaries

  • Ability to pass a background check

  • Smartphone

  • A way to get completed forms to the family, provider & LSS (scan & e-mail, photo & text, etc.)

Contact kate.hengy-gretz@lssmn.org or 507-995-9259 for more information. 

Volunteer opportunities

VBS Volunteers & Donors: 

  • Youth and adult VBS volunteers can use this form. 

  • The Wish Tree is up in the narthex! Stop by and see if you’d like to donate something we need. Please drop off donations ASAP so we can start preparations. 

  • If your board or committee would like to sponsor a meal that week, please contact Kaitlin Carter or Anna Wencl for more details.  We need sponsors, servers, and cleanup crew.

Worship Technology Volunteers wanted!

We are looking for folks interested in operating the worship livestream and slideshow. Basic computer skills will get you by, and we will train you! Contact Molly Nelson if interested: mnelson@blcmankato.org

The 2nd Annual Women’s Event is scheduled for November 9th. We want your group to join in the fun at a tour of tables! This year’s theme is Warm your Heart with Plaid! Be creative and advertise your group.

  • Bring a plaid tablecloth 

  • Decorate the table with a centerpiece celebrating your group

  • Plates/napkins are provided but optional to bring if your group has something in mind!

Interested? Contact Joy Dykema, dykemajoy@gmail.com

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Summer Organ Recitals are returning to Bethlehem! Recitals will take place Tuesdays at 12:10pm in the sanctuary, July 16 through August 13.  Here is the schedule:

  • July 16 -   Thomas Andrews 

  • July 23 -  Kaleb Schmidt  

  • ​July 30 -  John Stender   

  • August 6 - Kraig Windschitl    

  • August 13 - Christine Schulz 

Monthly Mission

Monthly Mission Match! BLC Endowment will match your contributions $1 for $1 for the next four Monthly Mission Projects:

June: Lutheran World Relief

July: Partners for Housing

August: Crossroads Campus Ministry

Designate a special gift to Bethlehem for any or all of these projects and the Endowment Fund will double it!

Bethlehem’s July Monthly Mission partner is Partners for Housing. For 40 years Partners for Housing has worked to support stable permanent housing for those in need. Blue Earth County has been labeled a “severe cost-burdened county” meaning many in our area spend more than 50% of their household income on housing. Partners for Housing provides emergency shelter and offers affordable transitional and permanent housing, as well as case management and other support services. Our giving goal is $1,300. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the memo line: Monthly Mission, Partners for Housing. Thank you for giving generously. 

This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Les Biesterfeld Anna Moses Jim Freyberg

Barb Girtz Mark Woelfel Tracy Carter

Amy Grams Haugesag Michael Buesing

Anne Ferris Nancy Bartell

The family & friends of Mark Kreger

First English Lutheran in Cannon Falls Elstad Lutheran in Peterson

Jackson Lake Lutheran in Amboy Ihanja Lutheran in Tanzania

Mission of San Juan in Bucaramanga, Colombia


Lectionary Readings

July 7, Mark 6:1-13

July 14, Mark 6:14-29

Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, June 24

Hello Bethlehem,

We are praying for all impacted by the recent flooding in our area and the unfolding situation with the Rapidan Dam failure. Please exercise caution and listen to local officials for safety and evacuation information. So far Bethlehem activities have not been affected but we will keep you informed. If you are in need of assistance and Bethlehem can be of any help, please contact the office. For emergencies, contact 911.

Service & Sun is underway

BLC Youth at Service & Sun were at Global Health Ministries today sorting medical supplies which will be shipped to one of our partner medical providers in Africa. The youth will be in the area community all week for Service & Sun.

Thank you to all who were able to join us at the Juneteenth Celebration last week! 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The 2nd Annual Women’s Event is scheduled for November 9th. We want your group to join in the fun at a tour of tables! This year’s theme is Warm your Heart with Plaid! Be creative and advertise your group.

  • Bring a plaid tablecloth

  • Decorate the table with a centerpiece celebrating your group

  • Plates/napkins are provided but optional to bring if your group has something in mind!

Interested? Contact Joy Dykema, dykemajoy@gmail.com

Happy Pride Month! Thank you for helping us build our ark where all are welcome! Stop by the narthex and see the Ark put together by your Welcome & Inclusion Committee. Bethlehem is an RIC Congregation. Learn more about what it means to be RIC on our website or by visiting Reconciling Works.

Family Faith Formation

Vacation Bible School Updates

  • Our VBS Registration is open! All youth ages 3 years to 6th grade are invited to join us July 22-25. Our theme this year is Wholly Holy and together we will remember Jesus’ words from John 10:10b, “I came so everyone would have life, and have it fully.” We will learn about wellness and our connection to God. We are also looking for volunteers! Youth and adult VBS volunteers can use this form. 

  • The Wish Tree is up in the narthex! Stop by and see if you’d like to donate something we need.

  • Thank you to the donor who took care of our Amazon wish list!

  • If your board or committee would like to sponsor a meal that week, please contact Kaitlin Carter or Anna Wencl for more details.  We need sponsors, servers, and cleanup crew.

Mark your calendar: we’re going to ValleyFair! BLC Youth are invited to join us at ValleyFair on August 21. Keep an eye out for more details! 

We are looking for 3 more summer trip prayer partners for our kids and youth attending camp and the ELCA Youth Gathering. You’d send them a postcard and pray for them during the summer, and receive a response from your prayer partner before the summer is over. Email our Family Faith Director Anna at annawencl@blcmankato.org if you’d like to be a partner! 

Monthly Mission

Monthly Mission Match! We are excited to share BLC Endowment will match your contributions $1 for $1 for the next four Monthly Mission Projects: May, House of Hope; June, Lutheran World Relief; July, Partners for Housing; and August, Crossroads Campus Ministry. Give to any or all of these missions and your donation will go twice as far!

Bethlehem’s June Monthly Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. Lutheran World Relief tackles global poverty by helping people adapt to the challenges that threaten their livelihoods and well-being. Werner Fick and Bethlehem members have donated over 100,000 school kits to this mission, as well as quilts and other donations. Our goal is to raise $7,000. You can give online or with a check.

This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Les Biesterfeld Anna Moses Jim Freyberg

Barb Girtz Mark Woelfel Tracy Carter

Amy Grams Haugesag Michael Buesing Shirley Davis

Anne Ferris Nancy Bartell

The family & friends of Mark Kreger

Greenfield Lutheran in Harmony Redeemer Lutheran in Alden

Saint Paul Lutheran in Pine Island San Juan Lutheran in Colombia

Sepuka Lutheran in Tanzania Gumanga Lutheran in Tanzania


Lectionary Readings

June 30, Mark 5:21-43

July 7, Mark 6:1-13

Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, June 17

Hello Bethlehem,

This Wednesday! June 19th, also known as Juneteenth, is a holiday to celebrate the emancipation of enslaved people in the US. The Mankato Juneteenth celebration will take place on Wednesday, June 19th from 2-7 pm. We are looking for volunteers to represent Bethlehem by marching in the Freedom Walk and/or working the booth during the event. Help us show our community that when we say ALL are welcome, we mean it! Look for the sign-up sheet in the narthex. -Welcome & Inclusion Board

Learn more about Juneteenth and Wednesday’s event by visiting the Greater Mankato Diversity Council website. Please note, the Bethlehem office will be closed on Wednesday in recognition of this holiday.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Happy Pride Month! Thank you for helping us build our ark where all are welcome! Stop by the narthex and see the Ark put together by your Welcome & Inclusion Committee. Bethlehem is an RIC Congregation. Learn more about what it means to be RIC on our website or by visiting Reconciling Works. 

The 2nd Annual Women’s Event is scheduled for November 9th, and we want YOUR group to join in the fun at our tour of tables! This year’s theme is Warm your Heart with Plaid! Be creative and advertise your group.

  • Bring a plaid tablecloth

  • Decorate the table with a centerpiece celebrating your group

  • Plates/napkins are provided but optional to bring if your group has something in mind!

Interested? Contact Joy Dykema, dykemajoy@gmail.com

Family Faith Formation

Mark your calendar: we’re going to ValleyFair! BLC Youth are invited to join us at ValleyFair on August 21. Keep an eye out for more details! 

Our VBS Registration is open! All youth ages 3 years to 6th grade are invited to join us July 22-25. Our theme this year is Wholly Holy and together we will remember Jesus’ words from John 10:10b, “I came so everyone would have life, and have it fully.” We will learn about wellness and our connection to God. If you’re interested in donating to VBS, check out the donation tree in the narthex or visit our Amazon wishlist! 

We are looking for 24 summer trip prayer partners for our kids and youth attending camp and the ELCA Youth Gathering. You’d send them a postcard and pray for them during the summer, and receive a response from your prayer partner before the summer is over. Email our Family Faith Director Anna at annawencl@blcmankato.org if you’d like to be a partner!    

Service and Sun is coming up! Registration is closed, please contact Anna Wencl if you have any questions or would still like to attend. 

LEADERSHIP

Bethlehem Strategic Plan

Check out the Strategic Plan Status Update on our website to learn about all that we did as a congregation and staff this year to bring life to the 2022-26 BLC strategic plan. We made great progress in advancing our mission and ministry. Thank you!

We Want You!!

Bethlehem wants YOU to consider serving in one of several open positions for the next 3 years on our Council, boards and committees:

  • Vice-President/President-Elect/President

  • Stewardship Board (1 position)

  • Finance Committee (3 positions)

Check with Bob Ihrig (507-388-1953  robert.ihrig1@gmail.com) for more details about the responsibilities and time commitment expected for each position. This is YOUR opportunity to use your time and talents to serve the mission and ministry of Bethlehem. Thank you!

Monthly Mission

Monthly Mission Match! We are excited to share BLC Endowment will match your contributions $1 for $1 for the next four Monthly Mission Projects: May, House of Hope; June, Lutheran World Relief; July, Partners for Housing; and August, Crossroads Campus Ministry. Give to any or all of these missions and your donation will go twice as far!

Bethlehem’s June Monthly Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. Lutheran World Relief tackles global poverty by helping people adapt to the challenges that threaten their livelihoods and well-being. Werner Fick and Bethlehem members have donated over 100,000 school kits to this mission, as well as quilts and other donations. Our goal is to raise $7,000. You can give online or with a check.

This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Les Biesterfeld Anna Moses Jim Freyberg

Barb Girtz Mark Woelfel Tracy Carter

Amy Grams Haugesag Michael Buesing Shirley Davis

Mark Krieger Anne Ferris Matt Anderson

Grace Lutheran in Waseca First Lutheran in Albert Lea

Central Freeborn Lutheran in Albert Lea Mansfield Lutheran in Alden

Ngimu Lutheran in Tanzania Igengu Lutheran in Tanzania


Lectionary Readings

June 23, Mark 4:35-41

June 30, Mark 5:21-43

Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, June 10

Hello Bethlehem,

Bethlehem held a School’s Out Celebration for our PK-6th graders and their families on Friday to officially kick off summer. Check out some photos of the fun. We hope you all have a safe and blessed summer!

Welcome & inclusion

Photo of the BLC Ark, submitted by Jill Contreras.

June 19th, also known as Juneteenth, is a holiday to celebrate the emancipation of enslaved people in the US. The Mankato Juneteenth celebration will take place on Wednesday, June 19th from 2-7 pm. We are looking for volunteers to represent Bethlehem by marching in the Freedom Walk and/or working the booth during the event. Help us show our community that when we say ALL are welcome, we mean it! Look for the sign-up sheet in the narthex. -Welcome & Inclusion Board

Happy Pride Month! Thank you for helping us build our ark where all are welcome! Stop by the narthex and see the Ark put together by your Welcome & Inclusion Committee. Bethlehem is an RIC Congregation. Learn more about what it means to be RIC on our website or by visiting Reconciling Works. 

Family Faith Formation

Mark your calendar: we’re going to ValleyFair! BLC Youth are invited to join us at ValleyFair on August 21. Keep an eye out for more details! 

Our VBS Registration is open! All youth ages 3 years to 6th grade are invited to join us July 22-25. Our theme this year is Wholly Holy and together we will remember Jesus’ words from John 10:10b, “I came so everyone would have life, and have it fully.” We will learn about wellness and our connection to God. If you’re interested in donating to VBS, check out the donation tree in the narthex or visit our Amazon wishlist! 

We are looking for 24 summer trip prayer partners for our kids and youth attending camp and the ELCA Youth Gathering. You’d send them a postcard and pray for them during the summer, and receive a response from your prayer partner before the summer is over. Email our Family Faith Director Anna at annawencl@blcmankato.org if you’d like to be a partner!    

Service and Sun is coming up! Registration is closed, please contact Anna Wencl if you have any questions or would still like to attend. 

LEADERSHIP

Bethlehem Strategic Plan

Check out the Strategic Plan Status Update on our website to learn about all that we did as a congregation and staff this year to bring life to the 2022-26 BLC strategic plan. We made great progress in advancing our mission and ministry. Thank you!

We Want You!!

Bethlehem wants YOU to consider serving in one of several open positions for the next 3 years on our Council, boards and committees:

  • Vice-President/President-Elect/President

  • Stewardship Board (1 position)

  • Finance Committee (3 positions)

Check with Bob Ihrig (507-388-1953  robert.ihrig1@gmail.com) for more details about the responsibilities and time commitment expected for each position. This is YOUR opportunity to use your time and talents to serve the mission and ministry of Bethlehem. Thank you!

Monthly Mission

Monthly Mission Match! We are excited to share BLC Endowment will match your contributions $1 for $1 for the next four Monthly Mission Projects: May, House of Hope; June, Lutheran World Relief; July, Partners for Housing; and August, Crossroads Campus Ministry. Give to any or all of these missions and your donation will go twice as far!

Bethlehem’s June Monthly Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. Lutheran World Relief tackles global poverty by helping people adapt to the challenges that threaten their livelihoods and well-being. Werner Fick and Bethlehem members have donated over 100,000 school kits to this mission, as well as quilts and other donations. Our goal is to raise $7,000. You can give online or with a check.

Thank you!

Cruz family update

Thank you to our Head Custodian, Kevin, who has been busy shampooing the carpets throughout the building. Thanks for all you do to keep Bethlehem beautiful!

Randy won a new bike at Roosevelt Elementary in a drawing for those who participated in “Bike to School Day.” He is also enrolled in a summer soccer league. 

Ariac is quite handy and is able to work for cash with a recommended pay of $20 per hour, if anyone is in need of help. 

Ariac could use some volunteers who would be willing to help him with his driving lessons in addition to his lessons at the driving school. 

The Cruz Family will spend 6 days at Camp House this summer after receiving a scholarship from GLLM.

This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Les Biesterfeld Anna Moses Jim Freyberg

Barb Girtz Mark Woelfel Tracy Carter

Amy Grams Haugesag Michael Buesing Shirley Davis

Mark Krieger Anne Ferris Matt Anderson

Faith Lutheran in Janesville Sudanese Dinka Community at Grace Lutheran in Austin

Union Prairie Lutheran in Lanesboro Kinampanda Lutheran in Tanzania

Mgori Lutheran in Tanzania Sayuni Mipilo Lutheran in Tanzania



Lectionary Readings

June 16, Mark 4:26-34

June 23, Mark 4:35-41

Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, June 3

Hello Bethlehem,

Thank you for helping us build our BLC ark where all are welcome! Stop by the narthex and see the ark put together by your Welcome & Inclusion Committee. Bethlehem is an RIC Congregation. Learn more about what it means to be RIC on our website or by visiting Reconciling Works.

LEADERSHIP

All Boards Meeting: Bethlehem’s All Boards Night is tonight Monday, June 3. We invite all board and committee members to join us at 5:30pm in Grounds for Joy for pizza and conversation. 

We Want You!!

Bethlehem wants YOU to consider serving in one of several open positions for the next 3 years on our Council, boards and committees:

  • Vice-President/President-Elect/President

  • Stewardship Board (1 position)

  • Finance Committee (3 positions)

Check with Bob Ihrig (507-388-1953  robert.ihrig1@gmail.com) for more details about the responsibilities and time commitment expected for each position. This is YOUR opportunity to use your time and talents to serve the mission and ministry of Bethlehem. Thank you!

Family Faith Formation

Today your BLC staff was hard at work testing the scooters for VBS. We hope you will join us for the fun!

Our VBS Registration is now live! All youth ages 3 years to 6th grade are invited to join us July 22-25. Our theme this year is Wholly Holy and together we will remember Jesus’ words from John 10:10b, “I came so everyone would have life, and have it fully.” We will learn about wellness and our connection to God. If you’re interested in donating to VBS, check out the donation tree in the narthex or visit our Amazon wishlist!

We are looking for 24 summer trip prayer partners for our kids and youth attending camp and the ELCA Youth Gathering. You’d send them a postcard and pray for them during the summer, and receive a response from your prayer partner before the summer is over. Email our Family Faith Director Anna at annawencl@blcmankato.org if you’d like to be a partner!    

Service and Sun is coming up in June! Youth who are going into 6th-12th grades are invited to participate in this half-week of service and fun with Mankato-area ELCA youth. Cost us $20/day or $60 for all three days. Scholarships available. Please register by June 5th. https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/form/ServiceandSun

Monthly Mission

Monthly Mission Match! We are excited to share BLC Endowment will match your contributions $1 for $1 for the next four Monthly Mission Projects: May, House of Hope; June, Lutheran World Relief; July, Partners for Housing; and August, Crossroads Campus Ministry. Give to any or all of these missions and your donation will go twice as far!

Bethlehem’s June Monthly Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. Lutheran World Relief tackles global poverty by helping people adapt to the challenges that threaten their livelihoods and well-being. Werner Fick and Bethlehem members have donated over 100,000 school kits to this mission, as well as quilts and other donations. Our goal is to raise $7,000. You can give online or with a check.

REMINDERS

BLC Community Garden plots are now available for sign-up! Plots are available on a first come, first serve basis and plots are limited. Sign up online or contact Sarah Morgan to reserve. 

Fraud alert: We want to remind all BLC community members to be aware of scams. Bethlehem’s pastors will never directly solicit you for funds. Please give in-person, online or mail to our office. If you have any questions, please contact the office. 

June 19th, also known as Juneteenth, is a holiday to celebrate the emancipation of enslaved people in the US. The Mankato Juneteenth celebration will take place on Wednesday, June 19th from 2-7 pm. We are looking for volunteers to represent Bethlehem by marching in the Freedom Walk and/or working the booth during the event. Help us show our community that when we say ALL are welcome, we mean it! Look for the sign-up sheet in the narthex. -Welcome & Inclusion Board

Congratulations!

Congratulations to our scholarship recipients! This year the Endowment Board awarded 17 scholarships to members of the Bethlehem community pursuing higher education.

This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Les Biesterfeld Anna Moses Jim Freyberg

Barb Girtz Mark Woelfel Tracy Carter

Amy Grams Haugesag Jodi Orchard Don Grotta

Michael Buesing Shirley Davis Mark Krieger

LeSueur River Lutheran in New Richland First Evangelical Lutheran in Kenyon

St. Michael Lutheran in Waltham Kijota Lutheran in Tanzania

Mazoezi Mughamo Lutheran in Tanzania Mazoezi Nkhoiree Lutheran in Tanzania


Lectionary Readings

June 9, Mark 3:20-35

June 16, Mark 4:26-34

Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, May 28

Hello Bethlehem,

Bethlehem’s All Boards Night is coming up on Monday, June 3. We invite all board and committee members to join us at 5:30pm in Grounds for Joy for pizza and conversation.

community announcements

BLC Community Garden plots are now available for sign-up! Plots are available on a first come, first serve basis and plots are limited. Sign up online or contact Sarah Morgan to reserve. 

Centenary United Methodist Church will host a Plant Sale on Saturday June 1 and Sunday June 2 from 8:00 am until noon. Stop by 501 South Second Street to purchase hostas, pollinators, asters, ornamental grasses and more. All proceeds support Holy Grounds, serving community breakfast 6 days a week. 

June 19th, also known as Juneteenth, is a holiday to celebrate the emancipation of enslaved people in the US. The Mankato Juneteenth celebration will take place on Wednesday, June 19th from 2-7 pm. We are looking for volunteers to represent Bethlehem by marching in the Freedom Walk and/or working the booth during the event. Help us show our community that when we say ALL are welcome, we mean it! Look for the sign-up sheet in the narthex. -Welcome & Inclusion Board

Family Faith Formation

We are looking for 24 summer trip prayer partners for our kids and youth attending camp and the ELCA Youth Gathering. You’d send them a postcard and pray for them during the summer, and receive a response from your prayer partner before the summer is over. Email our Family Faith Director Anna at annawencl@blcmankato.org if you’d like to be a partner!    

Our VBS Registration is now live! All youth ages 3 years to 6th grade are invited to join us July 22-25. Our theme this year is Wholly Holy and together we will remember Jesus’ words from John 10:10b, “I came so everyone would have life, and have it fully.” We will learn about wellness and our connection to God. 

Service and Sun is coming up in June! Youth who are going into 6th-12th grades are invited to participate in this half-week of service and fun with Mankato-area ELCA youth. Cost us $20/day or $60 for all three days. Scholarships available. Register by June 16th. https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/form/ServiceandSun

Monthly Mission

Monthly Mission Match! We are excited to share BLC Endowment will match your contributions $1 for $1 for the next four Monthly Mission Projects: May, House of Hope; June, Lutheran World Relief; July, Partners for Housing; and August, Crossroads Campus Ministry. Give to any or all of these missions and your donation will go twice as far!

Bethlehem’s May Monthly Mission partner is House of Hope, an organization which provides outpatient services to adults with substance abuse disorders. House of Hope has been serving the Mankato area for more than 50 years and contracts with the Blue Earth County Drug Court. The program is compatible with but not limited to AA and NA approaches. Contributions will be used for scholarships as well as start-up funding for new programs. Thank you for giving generously to those among us who struggle with substance use and mental health. You can give online or with a check.

THANK YOU!

Thank you to everyone who made it to the Blood Drive last week! Eight BLC members donated. The goal was 34 Units and that was achieved! Bethlehem has hosted 15 Blood Drives in Grounds for Joy, with 412 donors and 432 Units collected. The next Drive will be August 20.

Music Scholar reflections

Music Scholar - Matthew Olson

“I'm extremely grateful for my time at Bethlehem. Over the past few years, I have been offered a safe space and to be a part of a loving community. The connections I have felt here have deepened my faith and I have been able to share that with my family and friends and make new ones during my time here. I feel truly blessed to be able to make music and to worship in such a kind and caring environment with such kind and caring people.”

Music Scholar - Mya Santelman

“For the past three years I have been blessed with the community of the Bethlehem congregation! Every day I have felt welcomed, loved and supported. Thank you Bethlehem for providing me and so many others with a beautiful place to worship together.”

This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Les Biesterfeld Anna Moses Jim Freyberg

Barb Girtz Mark Woelfel Tracy Carter

Amy Grams Haugesag Jodi Orchard Don Grotta

Michael Buesing Shirley Davis Mark Krieger

Arendahl Lutheran in Peterson Christ Lutheran in Faribault

St. Olaf Lutheran in Austin Light & Life Ministry in Colombia

Mission la Victoria in Colombia CELCO (Colegio de la Evangelica Luterana de Colombia) in

Sogamoso, Colombia


Lectionary Readings

June 2, Mark 2:23-3:6

June 9, Mark 3:20-35

Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, May 20

Hello Bethlehem,

It’s Blood Drive week! Bethlehem will host a Blood Drive this Thursday, May 23, from 12-6pm in Grounds for Joy. There are still appointments available. Sign up online to give blood and save lives!  

Congratulations to our 2024 graduating seniors: Alayna, Evan, Emily, and Adam. It was an honor to celebrate with you on Sunday!

Family Faith Formation

We are looking for 24 summer trip prayer partners for our kids and youth attending camp and the ELCA Youth Gathering. You’d send them a postcard and pray for them during the summer, and receive a response from your prayer partner before the summer is over. Email our Family Faith Director Anna at annawencl@blcmankato.org if you’d like to be a partner!    

Our VBS Registration is now live! All youth ages 3 years to 6th grade are invited to join us July 22-25. Our theme this year is Wholly Holy and together we will remember Jesus’ words from John 10:10b, “I came so everyone would have life, and have it fully.” We will learn about wellness and our connection to God. 

Service and Sun is coming up in June! Youth who are going into 6th-12th grades are invited to participate in this half-week of service and fun with Mankato-area ELCA youth. Cost us $20/day or $60 for all three days. Scholarships available. Register by June 16th. https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/form/ServiceandSun

BLC in the community

June 19th, also known as Juneteenth, is a holiday to celebrate the emancipation of enslaved people in the US. The Mankato Juneteenth celebration will take place on Wednesday, June 19th from 2-7 pm. We are looking for volunteers to represent Bethlehem by marching in the Freedom Walk and/or working the booth during the event. Help us show our community that when we say ALL are welcome, we mean it! Look for the sign-up sheet in the narthex. -Welcome & Inclusion Board

BLC Community Garden plots are now available for sign-up! Plots are available on a first come, first serve basis and plots are limited. Sign up online or contact Sarah Morgan to reserve. 

Centenary United Methodist Church will host a Plant Sale on Saturday June 1 and Sunday June 2 from 8:00 am until noon. Stop by 501 South Second Street to purchase hostas, pollinators, asters, ornamental grasses and more. All proceeds support Holy Grounds, serving community breakfast 6 days a week. 

Monthly Mission

Monthly Mission Match! We are excited to share BLC Endowment will match your contributions $1 for $1 for the next four Monthly Mission Projects: May, House of Hope; June, Lutheran World Relief; July, Partners for Housing; and August, Crossroads Campus Ministry. Give to any or all of these missions and your donation will go twice as far!

Bethlehem’s May Monthly Mission partner is House of Hope, an organization which provides outpatient services to adults with substance abuse disorders. House of Hope has been serving the Mankato area for more than 50 years and contracts with the Blue Earth County Drug Court. The program is compatible with but not limited to AA and NA approaches. Contributions will be used for scholarships as well as start-up funding for new programs. Thank you for giving generously to those among us who struggle with substance use and mental health. You can give online or with a check.

Thank you

Thank you to Christine Schulz for sharing your talent and knowledge with the congregation during your adult forum, Playing the Sanctuary Organ, on Sunday.

This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Les Biesterfeld Anna Moses Jim Freyberg

Barb Girtz Mark Woelfel Tracy Carter

Amy Grams Haugesag Jodi Orchard Don Grotta

Michael Buesing Shirley Davis
The family & friends of Pastor Don Roberts

Sudanese Dinka Community at Zumbro Lutheran in Rochester Trinity Lutheran in Blue Earth

Bear Creek Lutheran in Grand Meadow Holden Lutheran in Kenyon

Asivida Ministry in Colombia Projecting My Future Ministry in Colombia


Lectionary Readings

May 26, John 3:1-17

June 2, Mark 2:23-3:6

Bethlehem LutheranComment
BLC Weekly, May 13

Hello Bethlehem,

BLC Community Garden plots are now available for sign-up! Plots are available on a first come, first serve basis and plots are limited. Sign up online or contact Sarah Morgan to reserve.

Bethlehem will host a Blood Drive on May 23 from 12-6pm. Sign up online to give blood and save lives.

Service and Sun is coming up in June! Youth who are going into 6th-12th grades are invited to participate in this half-week of service and fun with Mankato-area ELCA youth. Cost us $20/day or $60 for all three days. Scholarships available. Register by June 16th. https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/form/ServiceandSun

Summer Tutoring:Good Counsel Learning Center is offering one-on-one tutoring for three weeks each month June, July, and August for grades K – 12 in reading and math. Various hourly sessions are available from 9:00am - 5:00pm weekdays. Register online or call Sr. Dorothy at the Center for more information:  507-389-4229. 

Centenary United Methodist Church will host a Plant Sale on Saturday June 1 and Sunday June 2 from 8:00 am until noon. Stop by 501 South Second Street in Mankato to purchase hostas, pollinators, asters, ornamental grasses and more. And new this year, the Garden Boutique, selling gently used garden art and tools. All proceeds support Holy Grounds, serving community breakfast 6 days a week. 

Our VBS Registration is now live! All youth ages 3 years to 6th grade are invited to join us July 22-25. Our theme this year is Wholly Holy and together we will remember Jesus’ words from John 10:10b, “I came so everyone would have life, and have it fully.” We will learn about wellness and our connection to God. 

Congratulations to Rev. Jen Nagel who was elected bishop of the Minneapolis Area Synod of the ELCA. Many of you know her parents are members here at Bethlehem. She will be installed in September. Read more about Rev. Nagel here.

Thank you to our representatives at the Synod Assembly over the weekend!

Monthly Mission

Monthly Mission Match! We are excited to share BLC Endowment will match your contributions $1 for $1 for the next four Monthly Mission Projects: May, House of Hope; June, Lutheran World Relief; July, Partners for Housing; and August, Crossroads Campus Ministry. Give to any or all of these missions and your donation will go twice as far!

Bethlehem’s May Monthly Mission partner is House of Hope, an organization which provides outpatient services to adults with substance abuse disorders. House of Hope has been serving the Mankato area for more than 50 years and contracts with the Blue Earth County Drug Court. The program is compatible with but not limited to AA and NA approaches. Contributions will be used for scholarships as well as start-up funding for new programs. Thank you for giving generously to those among us who struggle with substance use and mental health. You can give online or with a check.

Thank you

Thank you to the BLC Praise Band for another year of contemporary worship music! Have a great summer!

We thank God for the opportunity he gives us to be in this place, for us it is a great pleasure to be here sharing this beautiful service. Thanks to the five churches, to the pastors of each of the churches and to all the people who have helped us in one way or another, to those who have given of their time to take us to school and so on to other places. We have gone through very difficult times like any human being, it has not been easy, but God has sustained us and lifted us up to lift us up, we want to continue being good people, that you are proud to be able to help people like us, that your effort and time have not been in vain. I always ask God for all of us to help us and bless us with great health and prosperity. The Lutheran churches have marked our lives from the first day they received us, we are surrounded by people with enormous hearts. You have been the reason for us not to give up, you are our inspiration to move forward, because we know that there is a great future for us and you, what is coming is great because God will reward everything you are doing for us.

-From the Cruz Family 

This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Les Biesterfeld Anna Moses Jim Freyberg

Barb Girtz Mark Woelfel Tracy Carter

Amy Grams Haugesag Jodi Orchard Don Grotta
The family & friends of Pastor Don Roberts

The family & friends of Jean Thompson

Grace Lutheran in Mankato Christ Lutheran in Byron

West Freeborn Lutheran in Hartland Nkuhi Lutheran in Tanzania

Vida Nueva Lutheran in Colombia Mkalama Lutheran in Tanzania


Lectionary Readings

May 19, Acts 2:1-21

May 26, John 3:1-17

Bethlehem LutheranComment