We are in the final week of Pride month, but we remember to include and celebrate our LGBTQIA+ siblings all year. As Jesus taught us, “Love one another like I have loved you.” 

***

Dee & Bob Singelstad extend their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who sent cards, flowers, and well wishes for their 67th Anniversary on June 11th. Your kindness means the world to them. 

***

The Library Board is reinventing the library space and would like your help in reducing the amount of books. Read the blog for more information. 

***

The Summer Organ Recital Series is back at BLC this summer. Get the full schedule on our blog, but know that our own Christine Schulz will be performing on August 9th.

***

Our weekly email is written and sent by the Congregational Services Coordinator. This position is in transition currently. As next week is the 4th of July, we will not have a BLC Weekly. An email on July 11th is possible, depending on the hiring of a new CSC. Call the church office if you have questions about the week’s goings on. 

REMINDERS: 

• For the remainder of the summer, Wednesday night worship will not be held. We will resume in the fall. If you can’t make it on Sundays, please consider watching the recording on Facebook or YouTube. 

• Four dates this season our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start. On these days, our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am. June 5, July 24, Sept. 18, Oct. 2

***

The June Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. You can learn more on the blog.  Or donate directly here: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/give/online

The July Mission Partner is YWCA Mankato. You can learn more on the blog.  Or donate directly here: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/give/online

***

Are you a member of our Facebook group? We post needs, news, and other fun things there, and you're encouraged to share as well. Check it out: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blcfam

***

News & Updates: https://www.blcmankato.org/news-updates

Church Calendar: https://www.blcmankato.org/calendar

"Every person supports a cause. It may not be our cause, but that's OK. See what's going on in your church and in your community and get involved with something that touches your heart. Think about it, pray about it and then just do it. Live beyond yourself." --Living Lutheran, Sept. 2021"

Bethlehem is an inviting community that is growing in Christ, loving our neighbors, and serving God's world."

July's monthly mission supports the YWCA Mankato. This mission is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. This resonates with our church as the YWCA mission aligns with our core values of integrity, respect, trust, compassion and inclusion. Your monetary donate will support many youth programs, family programs for our immigrant families to eliminate barriers that can negative impact health and well-being, workshops that focus on racial justice and ways to get involved and so much more. "Give a little today, to make a big impact tomorrow." Our goal is set to raise $800 during the month of July.

June 20, 2022

The first night of VBS was a huge success! We thank Eve Circle for providing and serving the meal. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are sponsored by Stewardship, Community and Global, and Council! Family Faith Formation couldn’t do it without all our amazing volunteers. 

***

We’re hiring! The position of Congregational Services Coordinator is open and accepting applications until June 24th. Read the full job description and apply on our website. 

***

The Library Board is reinventing the library space and would like your help in reducing the amount of books. Read the blog for more information. 

***

The Summer Organ Recital Series is back at BLC this summer. Get the full schedule on our blog, but know that our own Christine Schulz will be performing on August 9th.

***

Although Mankato celebrates PRIDE the second weekend in September, we should celebrate our LGBTQIA+ siblings all year-round. If you have questions about what it means to be an open and affirming church (all questions are valid!), please contact the Welcome and Inclusion Board. Contact info can be obtained from the church office. 

***

Our weekly email was a day late due to our office’s and staff’s observance of Juneteenth. Please join us in this prayer of the day from the ELCA Juneteenth Worship. 

REMINDERS: 

• For the remainder of the summer, Wednesday night worship will not be held. We will resume in the fall. If you can’t make it on Sundays, please consider watching the recording on Facebook or YouTube. 

• Four dates this season our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start. On these days, our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am. June 5, July 24, Sept. 18, Oct. 2

***

The June Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. You can learn more on the blog.  Or donate directly here: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/give/online

***

Are you a member of our Facebook group? We post needs, news, and other fun things there, and you're encouraged to share as well. Check it out: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blcfam

***

News & Updates: https://www.blcmankato.org/news-updates

Church Calendar: https://www.blcmankato.org/calendar

"Every person supports a cause. It may not be our cause, but that's OK. See what's going on in your church and in your community and get involved with something that touches your heart. Think about it, pray about it and then just do it. Live beyond yourself." --Living Lutheran, Sept. 2021

"Bethlehem is an inviting community that is growing in Christ, loving our neighbors, and serving God's world."

June 13, 2022

We’re hiring! The position of Congregational Services Coordinator is open and accepting applications until June 24th. Read the full job description and apply on our website. 

***

The Library Board is reinventing the library space and would like your help in reducing the amount of books. Read the blog for more information. 

***

The Summer Organ Recital Series is back at BLC this summer. Get the full schedule on our blog, but know that our own Christine Schulz will be performing on August 9th.

***

Although Mankato celebrates PRIDE the second weekend in September, we should celebrate our LGBTQIA+ siblings all year-round. If you have questions about what it means to be an open and affirming church (all questions are valid!), please contact the Welcome and Inclusion Board. Contact info can be obtained from the church office. 

***

REMINDERS: 

• For the remainder of the summer, Wednesday night worship will not be held. We will resume in the fall. If you can’t make it on Sundays, please consider watching the recording on Facebook or YouTube. 

• Four dates this season our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start. On these days, our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am. June 5, July 24, Sept. 18, Oct. 2

***

The June Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. You can learn more on the blog.  Or donate directly here: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/give/online

***

Are you a member of our Facebook group? We post needs, news, and other fun things there, and you're encouraged to share as well. Check it out: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blcfam

***

News & Updates: https://www.blcmankato.org/news-updates

Church Calendar: https://www.blcmankato.org/calendar
"Every person supports a cause. It may not be our cause, but that's OK. See what's going on in your church and in your community and get involved with something that touches your heart. Think about it, pray about it and then just do it. Live beyond yourself." --Living Lutheran, Sept. 2021

"Bethlehem is an inviting community that is growing in Christ, loving our neighbors, and serving God's world."

The library is changing!

During the month of June we welcome all to check out the shelves in the library.
Please feel free to take some books -to keep! There will a jar for free will donations.

All the monies received will be used to purchase new youth books.

Stay tuned for the new area to come!!

WEEK OF JUNE 6

Although Mankato celebrates PRIDE the second weekend in September, we should celebrate our LGBTQIA+ siblings all year-round. If you have questions about what it means to be an open and affirming church (all questions are valid!), please contact the Welcome and Inclusion Board. Contact info can be obtained from the church office. 

***

The Summer Organ Recital Series is back at BLC this summer. Get the full schedule on our blog, but know that our own Christine Schulz will be performing on August 9th.

***

THANK YOU to all the families that completed the capital campaign survey. The data has been collected and will be presented to the council on Thursday night. 

***

BROTHER/SISTER MENTORING PROGRAM

The Brother/Sister program creates a unique bridge connecting caring adult mentors to youth. Mentors help youth increase their self-confidence, social and communication skills, positive behaviors and help improve relationships at home, school and within the community.

Making a positive difference in the life of a kid who needs it. That’s the role – and reward – of the Brother/Sister volunteer.

VOLUNTEER RESPONSIBILITIES

We’re looking for people 18 or older who have a clean driving record, valid car insurance and no criminal record.

We also ask for:

A nine-month minimum commitment to the program

Keeping regular meetings with the youth (about once a week for two to three hours)

Demonstrating values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility

Sharing skills, time and interests with youth

Communicating with the program staff monthly

Sharing relationship accomplishments and concerns with parent(s)

Sharing in costs of weekly outings with the youth

Help choose fun activities

More information can be found at: https://mankatoymca.org/mentoring-programs/ or contact: Allison Braswell at abraswell@mankatoymca.org or 507-386-2705

***

REMINDERS: 

• For the remainder of the summer, Wednesday night worship will not be held. We will resume in the fall. If you can’t make it on Sundays, please consider watching the recording on Facebook or YouTube. 

• Four dates this season our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start. On these days, our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am. June 5, July 24, Sept. 18, Oct. 2

***

The June Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. You can learn more on the blog.  Or donate directly here: https://blcmankato.breezechms.com/give/online

***

2022 Summer Recital Series – Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists

Annual Summer Noontime Organ Recitals

Tuesdays, June 7 – August 19, 2022

12:10 pm in Mankato

Admission is free; a free-will donation will be accepted.  Visit www.agosiouxtrails.org  for information about specific locations and performers. 

Our Savior’s Lutheran Church

1103 N Broad Street, Mankato

June 7 - Tom Andrews Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, New Ulm

June 14 - David Mertesdorf  Church of the Ascension, Minneapolis

June 21 - Paul Otte Emeritus, Peace Lutheran, Hutchinson

Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church

105 N. 5th Street, Mankato

June 28 - Chad Winterfeldt Gustavus Adolphus College, Saint Peter

July 5 - David Fienen Gustavus Adolphus College, Saint Peter

July 12 - Grace Kunkel  Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Mankato

July 19 - Elisabeth Urtel Bethany Lutheran College, Mankato

Bethlehem Lutheran Church

720 S. 2nd Street, Mankato  

July 26 -  Craig Hirschmann Martin Luther College, New Ulm

August 2 - Kraig Windschitl Saint Philip the Deacon, Plymouth 

August 9 - Christine Schulz Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Mankato

Lutheran World Relief is our June mission. Our focus this June is on Ukraine. Since conflict began in late February, millions of people have fled and there remains more people in dire need within Ukraine. LWR is committing $7 million to respond to this crisis and we can help with our generous giving to this humanitarian crisis. Donations are used to support and provide medical supplies and equipment, and support Ukraine network partnerships to provide shelter, food and essential supplies - just the basic living needs of the Ukrainian people.

Bethlehem has long supported this organization donating quilts and assembling school kits; this June 2022 we would like to focus our support to these efforts. Our goal for June is $7,000. For more information on supporting the Ukraine crisis and other ways to help, go to lwr.org.

May 23, 2022

Congratulations to the 15 undergraduate college students who applied for a scholarship from Bethlehem's Endowment Fund this year! Scholarships will be presented on Sunday, June 5 at the beginning of the 9:30 worship service. Students and parents will be invited to the front of the sanctuary.

***

BROTHER/SISTER MENTORING PROGRAM

The Brother/Sister program creates a unique bridge connecting caring adult mentors to youth. Mentors help youth increase their self-confidence, social and communication skills, positive behaviors and help improve relationships at home, school and within the community.

Making a positive difference in the life of a kid who needs it. That’s the role – and reward – of the Brother/Sister volunteer.

VOLUNTEER RESPONSIBILITIES

We’re looking for people 18 or older who have a clean driving record, valid car insurance and no criminal record.

We also ask for:

A nine-month minimum commitment to the program

Keeping regular meetings with the youth (about once a week for two to three hours)

Demonstrating values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility

Sharing skills, time and interests with youth

Communicating with the program staff monthly

Sharing relationship accomplishments and concerns with parent(s)

Sharing in costs of weekly outings with the youth

Help choose fun activities

More information can be found at: https://mankatoymca.org/mentoring-programs/ or contact: Allison Braswell at abraswell@mankatoymca.org or 507-386-2705

***

Green Lake needs staff! If you know someone, please refer them for a $1,000 bonus for you or the church! Flyers with more details can be found on the Welcome Desk or visit bit.ly/GLLMrefer. 

***

From the ELCA: What is important to you when you think about government? What about how the church and the state relate to each other?

A task force is at work on a new social statement about civics and faith, and it wants to hear from you.(Click to learn more.) This social statement was requested by the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. A key piece of this process is hearing from ELCA members about their priorities and perspectives.

Social statements establish the basis for the ELCA’s public voice and policy decisions. They also serve as a teaching tool to help people discern and discuss their views on an issue.

This month you can connect directly with the task force to let them know what’s important to you!

Join members of the ELCA social statement task force for an ELCA-wide virtual listening event. The event will introduce what social statements are and how they’re developed. Then, participants will have a chance to share with task force members directly in breakout groups. The main questions will be:

• What themes, ideas or topics do you think the task force needs to talk about or consider for the social statement?

• What is important for the task force to consider in creating an effective social statement?

There are two opportunities to participate: Tuesday, May 24, 7-8:15 p.m. or Wednesday, May 25, 7-8:15 p.m. Click here to register. 

***

REMINDERS: 

• For the remainder of the summer, Wednesday night worship will not be held. We will resume in the fall. If you can’t make it on Sundays, please consider watching the recording on Facebook or YouTube. 

• Four dates this season our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start. On these days, our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am. 

***

The May Mission Partner is Open Door Health Center. You can learn more on the blog.  Donate here.

***

Are you a member of our Facebook group? We post needs, news, and other fun things there, and you're encouraged to share as well. Check it out: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blcfam

***

News & Updates: https://www.blcmankato.org/news-updates

Church Calendar: https://www.blcmankato.org/calendar
"Every person supports a cause. It may not be our cause, but that's OK. See what's going on in your church and in your community and get involved with something that touches your heart. Think about it, pray about it and then just do it. Live beyond yourself." --Living Lutheran, Sept. 2021

"Bethlehem is an inviting community that is growing in Christ, loving our neighbors, and serving God's world."

May 16, 2022

From the ELCA: What is important to you when you think about government? What about how the church and the state relate to each other?

A task force is at work on a new social statement about civics and faith, and it wants to hear from you.(Click to learn more.) This social statement was requested by the 2019 ELCA Churchwide Assembly. A key piece of this process is hearing from ELCA members about their priorities and perspectives.

Social statements establish the basis for the ELCA’s public voice and policy decisions. They also serve as a teaching tool to help people discern and discuss their views on an issue.

This month you can connect directly with the task force to let them know what’s important to you!

Join members of the ELCA social statement task force for an ELCA-wide virtual listening event. The event will introduce what social statements are and how they’re developed. Then, participants will have a chance to share with task force members directly in breakout groups. The main questions will be:

• What themes, ideas or topics do you think the task force needs to talk about or consider for the social statement?

• What is important for the task force to consider in creating an effective social statement?

There are two opportunities to participate: Tuesday, May 24, 7-8:15 p.m. or Wednesday, May 25, 7-8:15 p.m. Click here to register. 

***

Allan Asleson is turning 90! You’re invited to an Open House on Saturday, May 21st at 1pm at his home on Lake Ballantyne. Or send a card if you can’t make it to: 61656 Nutmeg Rd, Madison Lake, 56063. 

***

Green Lake needs staff! If you know someone, please refer them for a $1,000 bonus for you or the church! Flyers with more details can be found on the Welcome Desk or visit bit.ly/GLLMrefer. 

***

We are pleased to share the excitement at First Presbyterian and their new organ. We know we have the best organist around in Christine Schulz, so of course they’ve asked her to be a part of their concert. This will be a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon on May 22nd at 1:30pm. 

***

The Strategic Planning Team will host a gathering following worship on May 22 in Grounds for Joy so you can find out more about how you can be part of where the holy Spirit is leading us ahead. 

***

REMINDERS: 

• For the remainder of the summer, Wednesday night worship will be held in the chapel and will not be livestreamed. The time remains 6:15pm. 

• Four dates this season our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start. On these days, our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am. 

***

The May Mission Partner is Open Door Health Center. You can learn more on the blog.  Donate here.

***

Are you a member of our Facebook group? We post needs, news, and other fun things there, and you're encouraged to share as well. Check it out: https://www.facebook.com/groups/blcfam

***

News & Updates: https://www.blcmankato.org/news-updates

Church Calendar: https://www.blcmankato.org/calendar
"Every person supports a cause. It may not be our cause, but that's OK. See what's going on in your church and in your community and get involved with something that touches your heart. Think about it, pray about it and then just do it. Live beyond yourself." --Living Lutheran, Sept. 2021

"Bethlehem is an inviting community that is growing in Christ, loving our neighbors, and serving God's world."