Hello Bethlehem,

Yesterday we welcomed Pastor Jacie Richmond to speak to the congregation for the first time. Check out the video of Pastor Jacie’s first talk here. Welcome Pastor Jacie! 

 Thank you to everyone who attended yesterday’s congregation-wide celebration dinner! We had a great turnout. We hope you will take a moment to view A Vision of Hope. In this video you will hear from Capital Campaign Chair, Carrol Meyers-Dobler, Information Team Chair, Bob Ihrig, and Council President, Mary Bliesmer. Learn more about the history of Bethlehem, the Capital Campaign, and why Bethlehem Lutheran Church is a Vision of Hope. View the video here!

Over the weekend Bethlehem hosted Teens Encounter Christ (TEC). We have overall 32 youth, including 5 of Bethlehem’s 9th graders.

Grab your costumes, donate some candy, and join us Wednesday, Oct. 26th from 6:45-7:45pm for a fun evening in Bethlehem’s parking lot! Our annual Halloween event has something for everyone and is open to the whole community! Trick or Treat down Trunk Alley, get your face painted, play ring toss, enjoy hot cider by the campfire, and more! Sign up here to host a trunk or donate candy! Donated candy should be dropped off in the main office by Oct. 23rd.

Bethlehem will host a Halloween-Themed Youth Lock-In for 5th-9th graders, coming up on Friday, October 28th from 7pm to midnight. There is no cost, friends are welcome! Register here by Oct. 26th. 

Lefse is back thanks to you volunteers! We will be making lefse on Friday, November 18th at 9am in the downstairs kitchen. If you forgot to sign up, that’s okay, we may still have room for you!

Pre order your lefse today! Sold in packs of 3 rounds for $5, limit 2 packs per customer. Payment due at pickup. Lefse pre-orders can be picked up Friday, November 18th at noon, or Sunday, November 20th after worship. You can pre-order your Lefse online or by calling the office. Pre-orders are limited but don’t worry if you miss out: any extra lefse and more baked goods will be available for sale on Sunday at our…Bake Sale! 

That’s right, this year we are adding more freshly baked goodies and Norwegian treats, and bringing you a Bake Sale just in time for Thanksgiving! We’ll be in the narthex after worship on November 20th with goodies available for purchase on your way to the semi-annual meeting. 

Thank you so much for the great response to lefse making! It goes to show, our Nordic Bazaar might be retired, but the spirit is still strong! Thank you, Bethlehem! 

Connections Shelter is open for the season! Some changes this year: there will be no morning shifts and only meal providers and servers are needed. Meals will be served daily from 5:45-7:30pm. Grocery donations will be needed for our weeks and a wish list will be sent out the weekend before the week starts. There is also an afternoon cleaning session once a week. Call or text Derek at 210-863-4202 for more info. 

You can sign up to prepare food and bring it to the shelter, sign up just to serve the meal, or do both. We serve up to 35 guests every evening. If that number changes, we will notify you beforehand. Sign up here for a meal shift. 

Bethlehem is signed up for the following weeks: Oct. 17, Dec. 5, Jan. 23, Mar 20, May 22. Text Derek if you are interested in helping to coordinate Bethlehem’s weeks. 

Join this Wednesday, Oct. 26th for dinner and worship. We will be serving spaghetti with meatballs, salad and garlic toast!

Note: Your Congregational Services Coordinator, Molly Nelson, will be on vacation Oct. 27-30 following her wedding on Oct. 22nd. Thank you in advance for your patience during this busy and exciting time. Special thanks to the staff, volunteers and Bethlehem members filling in during her absence! 

Bethlehem's October Monthly Mission is Echo Food Shelf. Echo has been an important part of the Mankato and surrounding communities since 1981 when a group of concerned people recognized a crisis in the community and organized the collection of food in a church basement. The need for services has increased and Echo has expanded to meet the growing needs of our community. Volunteers bring food to local families who are unable to get to the food shelf and the summer feeding program fills the meal gap with many families. Many volunteer positions are available for those interested in helping Echo with their program. We have set a monetary donation goal of $3,000. We thank Bethlehem members for their commitment to our community.

Our goal is $3,000. Please give prayerfully and financially to our community. You can give online here. Thank you, Bethlehem! 

Hello Bethlehem,

Next Sunday, Oct. 23, we will welcome Pastor Jacie Richmond as she delivers her first sermon here at Bethlehem. Later that evening, from 5-7pm, we will enjoy a congregation-wide celebration dinner at the Courtyard by Marriott. See you there! 

Check out the latest installment of our Vision of Hope series. This week we heard from Chelsey Kunkel.

Connections Shelter is open for the season, and Bethlehem is signed up for this week! We are in need of a volunteer to provide a meal next Sunday, October 23rd. We know this conflicts with our celebration dinner that evening, but arranging catering is also acceptable! Interested in making it happen? Use this link. Thank you, Bethlehem!

Some changes this year: there will be no morning shifts and only meal providers and servers are needed. Meals will be served daily from 5:45-7:30pm. Grocery donations will be needed for our weeks and a wish list will be sent out the weekend before the week starts. There is also an afternoon cleaning session once a week. Call or text Derek at 210-863-4202 for more info. 

You can sign up to prepare food and bring it to the shelter, sign up just to serve the meal, or do both. We serve up to 35 guests every evening. If that number changes, we will notify you beforehand. Sign up here for a meal shift. 

Bethlehem is signed up for the following weeks: Oct. 17, Dec. 5, Jan. 23, Mar 20, May 22. Text Derek if you are interested in helping to coordinate Bethlehem’s weeks. 

Due to MEA weekend, we will not be serving dinner this Wednesday, Oct. 19th. Join us the following Wednesday, Oct. 26th for dinner and worship. We will be serving spaghetti with meatballs, salad and garlic toast.

Grab your costumes, donate some candy, and join us Wednesday, Oct. 26th from 6:45-7:45pm for a fun evening in Bethlehem’s parking lot! Our annual Halloween event has something for everyone and is open to the whole community! Trick or Treat down Trunk Alley, get your face painted, play ring toss, enjoy hot cider by the campfire, and more! Sign up here to host a trunk or donate candy! Donated candy should be dropped off in the main office by Oct. 23rd.

Bethlehem will host a Halloween-Themed Youth Lock-In for 5th-9th graders, coming up on Friday, October 28th from 7pm to midnight. There is no cost, friends are welcome! Register here by Oct. 26th. 

Note: Your Congregational Services Coordinator, Molly Nelson, will be on vacation Oct. 27-30 following her wedding on Oct. 22nd. Thank you in advance for your patience during this busy and exciting time. Special thanks to the staff, volunteers and Bethlehem members filling in during her absence! 

Bethlehem's October Monthly Mission is Echo Food Shelf. Echo has been an important part of the Mankato and surrounding communities since 1981 when a group of concerned people recognized a crisis in the community and organized the collection of food in a church basement. The need for services has increased and Echo has expanded to meet the growing needs of our community. Volunteers bring food to local families who are unable to get to the food shelf and the summer feeding program fills the meal gap with many families. Many volunteer positions are available for those interested in helping Echo with their program. We have set a monetary donation goal of $3,000. We thank Bethlehem members for their commitment to our community.

Our goal is $3,000. Please give prayerfully and financially to our community. You can give online here. Thank you, Bethlehem! 

Blessing of the BLC confirmation students, Wednesday, Oct. 5th.

Hello Bethlehem,

Today is the RSVP deadline for our congregation-wide dinner at the Courtyard by Marriott on Sunday, October 23rd at 5pm. There is no cost to attend. RSVP using this form. The link to RSVP is also available on our homepage. We hope you can join us in celebrating all the great things God is doing at Bethlehem. 

Check out the latest installment of our Vision of Hope series. This week we heard from Charlie Leftridge. 

The Inspiration Team invites you to enter a time of prayer for our church and congregation as we move into a time of discernment. On Saturday, October 15th, Bethlehem will host a Prayer Vigil in the sanctuary from noon to 4pm. You can sign up for half hour increments online or at the Welcome Kiosk. There is no maximum number of participants and you can register as an individual, family, or group. You may come into the sanctuary or pray from home or wherever you feel most comfortable. 

Next Sunday ECHO Food Shelf will be presenting the adult forum on Sunday, October 16 in Grounds for Joy following the service. We want to encourage members to bring food and/or financial donations at this time. See you at the forum!

Following service, Bethlehem will also host a Covid Bivariant Vaccine Clinic with HyVee in the library from 10:45am to noon. If you wish to receive your booster, please bring your ID, insurance card, and vaccine card. 

Grab your costumes, donate some candy, and join us Wednesday, Oct. 26th from 6:45-7:45pm for a fun evening in Bethlehem’s parking lot! Our annual Halloween event has something for everyone and is open to the whole community! Trick or Treat down Trunk Alley, get your face painted, play ring toss, enjoy hot cider by the campfire, and more! Sign up here to host a trunk or donate candy! Donated candy should be dropped off in the main office by Oct. 23rd.

Connections Shelter is open for the season, and Bethlehem is signed up for the week of Oct. 17th! Some changes this year: there will be no morning shifts and only meal providers and servers are needed. Meals will be served daily from 5:45-7:30pm. Grocery donations will be needed for our weeks and a wish list will be sent out the weekend before the week starts. There is also an afternoon cleaning session once a week. Call or text Derek at 210-863-4202 for more info. 

You can sign up to prepare food and bring it to Connections Shelter, sign up just to serve the meal, or do both. We serve up to 35 guests every evening. If that number changes, we will notify you beforehand. Sign up here for a meal shift.  Bethlehem is signed up for the following weeks: Oct. 17, Dec. 5, Jan. 23, Mar 20, May 22. Text Derek if you are interested in helping to coordinate Bethlehem’s weeks. 

A huge THANK YOU to all that either walked/donated to the ALS Walk! A great turnout and even a nice weather day! The Bethlehem Gait Keepers donated $1300.00! These monies help to find a cure plus helps the individuals that need help with material items. Thank you so much!!

Our hearts are with all those affected by Hurricane Ian, which made landfall in Florida with near Category 5-strength winds, record rain, and catastrophic flooding. Lutheran Disaster Response works with its partners to provide immediate relief, including water, clothing, gift cards, tarps, and more. Since many hurricanes also require long-term response, Lutheran Disaster Response provides support on the long road to recovery with disaster case management, construction management, and emotional and spiritual care. Gifts to “Hurricane Response” will be used in full to assist those affected by hurricanes. Join us in supporting the ELCA in this important work; click here to donate. 

Bethlehem's October Monthly Mission is Echo Food Shelf. Echo has been an important part of the Mankato and surrounding communities since 1981 when a group of concerned people recognized a crisis in the community and organized the collection of food in a church basement. The need for services has increased and Echo has expanded to meet the growing needs of our community. Volunteers bring food to local families who are unable to get to the food shelf and the summer feeding program fills the meal gap with many families. Many volunteer positions are available for those interested in helping Echo with their program. We have set a monetary donation goal of $3,000. We thank Bethlehem members for their commitment to our community.
Our goal is $3,000. Please give prayerfully and financially to our community. You can give online here. Thank you, Bethlehem!

Happy October Bethlehem,

You are also invited to join Bethlehem Lutheran Church in the Imagine: A Vision of Hope congregational-wide dinner event at Marriott Courtyard on Sunday, October 23 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM. You’ll enjoy dinner, fellowship, and a short presentation on the campaign. No commitment will be requested at the event and there is no cost to attendees. Please RSVP by October 10th using this form. The link to RSVP is also available on our homepage. We hope you can join us in celebrating all the great things God is doing at Bethlehem. 

Check out the latest installment of our Vision of Hope series. This week we heard from the Renberg family. 

The Inspiration Team invites you to enter a time of prayer for our church and congregation as we move into a time of discernment. On Saturday, October 15th, Bethlehem will host a Prayer Vigil in the sanctuary from noon to 4pm. You can sign up for half hour increments online or at the Welcome Kiosk. There is no maximum number of participants and you can register as an individual, family, or group. You may come into the sanctuary or pray from home or wherever you feel most comfortable. 

Connections Shelter is open for the season, and Bethlehem is signed up for the week of Oct. 17th! Some changes this year: there will be no morning shifts and only meal providers and servers are needed. Meals will be served daily from 5:45-7:30pm. Grocery donations will be needed for our weeks and a wish list will be sent out the weekend before the week starts. There is also an afternoon cleaning session once a week. Call or text Derek at 210-863-4202 for more info. 

You can sign up to prepare food and bring it to the shelter, sign up just to serve the meal, or do both. We serve up to 35 guests every evening. If that number changes, we will notify you beforehand. Sign up here for a meal shift. 

Bethlehem is signed up for the following weeks: Oct. 17, Dec. 5, Jan. 23, Mar 20, May 22. Text Derek if you are interested in helping to coordinate Bethlehem’s weeks. 

Our hearts are with all those affected by Hurricane Ian, which made landfall in Florida with near Category 5-strength winds, record rain, and catastrophic flooding. Lutheran Disaster Response works with its partners to provide immediate relief, including water, clothing, gift cards, tarps, and more. Since many hurricanes also require long-term response, Lutheran Disaster Response provides support on the long road to recovery with disaster case management, construction management, and emotional and spiritual care. Gifts to “Hurricane Response” will be used in full to assist those affected by hurricanes. Join us in supporting the ELCA in this important work; click here to donate. 

Groups are gathering once again! Bethlehem is blessed with many wonderful opportunities to connect with one another and grow our faith. Here’s a quick look at some of our groups and what they have to offer: 

• BLC Men: The mission of our BLC Men’s Group is to grow closer to God as we grow closer to one another. BLC Men’s Fall Events will include serving Lunch for a Buck at Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry on Oct. 4, Rake the Town on Nov. 12 with Bethlehem Youth, and the 3rd Annual BLC Men’s Bowling Championship on Dec. 1. 

• Book of Faith: this group meets each Wednesday morning at 10:30am in Grounds for Joy to open Scripture and join in conversation. This fall will focus on Jeremiah and Lamentations. Cost of the 8-session book is $12. There is no need to sign up in advance, but feel free to register online. 

• Life in the Spirit: this long-standing Bethlehem group meets on the second Thursday of each month to learn and develop classic Christian practices like contemplative prayer. Meetings take place at 6:30pm and there is no need to sign up in advance. 

• Meet and Eat! We’re forming a new group on a familiar idea. Three BLC couples/individuals will be matched up and set up three different get togethers over a meal, each hosted by a member of the group. Have these three “eats and meets” before Jan. 1 and we will pair you up with a new group after the holidays! Sign up here to participate. 

• Tuesday Morning Lectionary Study: Each week a group of Bethlehem members and friends gathers online at 7am to study and discuss the coming week’s preaching text. If you are interested in participating, use this Zoom link to join in.

• Women of the ELCA: The Bethlehem Women of the ELCA (BWELCA) is a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit. We commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world. The Circles that make up BWELCA include: 

Deborah Circle: meets 10am third Saturday of the month in Grounds for Joy

Rachel Circle: meets 9am second Tuesday in the Library

Sarah Circle: meets 9am on the fourth Wednesday of each month

Eve Circle: meets 6:30pm on the third Monday of each month

Interested in joining a musical group here at Bethlehem? Learn more about our musical opportunities on our website and contact Charlie Leftridge at cleftridge@blcmankato.org  to join us in making joyful noise! 

Bethlehem's October Monthly Mission is Echo Food Shelf. Echo has been an important part of the Mankato and surrounding communities since 1981 when a group of concerned people recognized a crisis in the community and organized the collection of food in a church basement. The need for services has increased and Echo has expanded to meet the growing needs of our community. Volunteers bring food to local families who are unable to get to the food shelf and the summer feeding program fills the meal gap with many families. Many volunteer positions are available for those interested in helping Echo with their program. We have set a monetary donation goal of $3,000. We thank Bethlehem members for their commitment to our community.

Our goal is $3,000. Please give prayerfully and financially to our community. You can give online here. Thank you, Bethlehem! 

REMINDERS: 

• Fall is in full-swing! Check out the calendar to see the latest music, worship, and event schedules. Volunteers can now reference our serving schedules online!

Hello Bethlehem,

This week we officially began our Capital Campaign! Each week, we will be hearing from a member of Bethlehem about the ways they see God working among us and what makes Bethlehem so important to them. Check out the first talk in the Vision of Hope series. This week we heard from Lori Ruthenbeck. 

You are invited to join Bethlehem Lutheran Church in the Imagine: A Vision of Hope congregational-wide dinner event at Marriott Courtyard on Sunday, October 23 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM. You’ll enjoy dinner, fellowship, and a short presentation on the campaign. No commitment will be requested at the event and there is no cost to attendees. Please RSVP by October 1st using this form. The link to RSVP is also available on our homepage. We hope you can join us in celebrating all the great things God is doing at Bethlehem. 

This week we welcomed several new members to Bethlehem. Join us in extending a warm welcome to Isabella Thul, Carol Peterson, Sara Maslakow, Mitchell Skluzacek, Beverly Mathison, Wayne Luebbert, Ben Johnson, and Ted and Sue Glaser. Welcome new members! 

We want YOU on the Lefse crew! Rollers and flippers are needed to make lefse Friday, November 18th. No experience required: we will teach you this delicious tradition! Once we are able to secure enough volunteers, we will begin taking Lefse pre-orders. We hope you will join us in creating this yummy treat in time for Thanksgiving! Contact Ginger Erlandson by October 1st to sign up. Email rerlandson2@gmail.com or call 507-278-3007.

Connections Shelter is reopening for the season on October 3rd, and Bethlehem is signed up for the week of Oct. 17th! Some changes this year: there will be no morning shifts and only meal providers and servers are needed. Meals will be served daily from 5:45-7:30pm. Grocery donations will be needed for our weeks and a wish list will be sent out the weekend before the week starts. There is also an afternoon cleaning session once a week. Call or text Derek at 210-863-4202 for more info. 

You can sign up to prepare food and bring it to the shelter, sign up just to serve the meal, or do both. We serve up to 35 guests every evening. If that number changes, we will notify you beforehand. Sign up here for a meal shift. 

Bethlehem is signed up for the following weeks: Oct. 17, Dec. 5, Jan. 23, Mar 20, May 22. Text Derek if you are interested in helping to coordinate Bethlehem’s weeks. 

Groups are gathering once again! Bethlehem is blessed with many wonderful opportunities to connect with one another and grow our faith. Here’s a quick look at some of our groups and what they have to offer: 

• BLC Men: The mission of our BLC Men’s Group is to grow closer to God as we grow closer to one another. BLC Men’s Fall Events will include serving Lunch for a Buck at Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry on Oct. 4, Rake the Town on Nov. 12 with Bethlehem Youth, and the 3rd Annual BLC Men’s Bowling Championship on Dec. 1. 

• Book of Faith: this group meets each Wednesday morning at 10:30am in Grounds for Joy to open Scripture and join in conversation. This fall will focus on Jeremiah and Lamentations. Cost of the 8-session book is $12. There is no need to sign up in advance, but feel free to register online. 

• Life in the Spirit: this long-standing Bethlehem group meets on the second Thursday of each month to learn and develop classic Christian practices like contemplative prayer. Meetings take place at 6:30pm and there is no need to sign up in advance. 

• Meet and Eat! We’re forming a new group on a familiar idea. Three BLC couples/individuals will be matched up and set up three different get togethers over a meal, each hosted by a member of the group. Have these three “eats and meets” before Jan. 1 and we will pair you up with a new group after the holidays! Sign up here to participate. 

• Tuesday Morning Lectionary Study: Each week a group of Bethlehem members and friends gathers online at 7am to study and discuss the coming week’s preaching text. If you are interested in participating, use this Zoom link to join in.

Interested in joining a musical group here at Bethlehem? Learn more about our musical opportunities on our website and contact Charlie Leftridge at cleftridge@blcmankato.org  to join us in making joyful noise! 

Our September monthly mission is Iambi Secondary School (ISS). This boarding school has a 200 student capacity and 20 staff members. Academically, ISS has been doing very well. It is a leading school in the Mkalama district and it is among the top ten schools in the Singida region.

Gifts from Bethlehem have been transformative for ISS: our past generosity has enabled the school to install electricity, allowing students and teachers to study and prepare lessons after the sun has set. As a result, test results soared and enrollment has boomed. 

Our goal is $7,000. Please give prayerfully and financially to our friends at Iambi Secondary School. You can give online here. Thank you, Bethlehem! 

REMINDERS: 

• Fall is in full-swing! Check out the calendar to see the latest music, worship, and event schedules. Volunteers can now reference our serving schedules online!

• Our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start on Oct. 2. Our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am. 

Hello Bethlehem,

We are delighted to share that Pastor Jacie Richmond has accepted our call to become Bethlehem’s new associate pastor. We anticipate Pastor Jacie beginning her ministry in October, and have set an installation date for December 4. Welcome, Pastor Jacie! 

Wednesday Night Suppers are back at Bethlehem. Bethlehem volunteers will greet and serve you. Connect and converse with fellow members and community residents. All are welcome! You can view the September menu on our website. This week, we’re serving chicken alfredo, salad and garlic toast!

We want YOU on the Lefse crew! Rollers and flippers are needed to make lefse Friday, November 18th. No experience required: we will teach you this delicious tradition! Once we are able to secure enough volunteers, we will begin taking Lefse pre-orders. We hope you will join us in creating this yummy treat in time for Thanksgiving! Contact Ginger Erlandson by October 1st to sign up. Email rerlandson2@gmail.com or call 507-278-3007. 

Groups are gathering once again! Bethlehem is blessed with many wonderful opportunities to connect with one another and grow our faith. Here’s a quick look at some of our groups and what they have to offer: 

• Meet and Eat! Three BLC couples/individuals will be matched up and set up three different get togethers over a meal, each hosted by a member of the group. Have these three “eats and meets” before Jan. 1 and we will pair you up with a new group after the holidays! Sign up here to participate.

• BLC Men: The mission of our BLC Men’s Group is to grow closer to God as we grow closer to one another. We will begin again on Monday, Sept. 12, with grilling and a get together at Derek Brown’s home. RSVP to pastorjay@blcmankato.org for more information, or fill out the registration form to join. Other BLC Men’s Fall Events will include serving Lunch for a Buck at Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry on Oct. 4, Rake the Town on Nov. 12 with Bethlehem Youth, and the 3rd Annual BLC Men’s Bowling Championship on Dec. 1. 

• Book of Faith: this group meets each Wednesday morning at 10:30am in Grounds for Joy to open Scripture and join in conversation. This fall will focus on Jeremiah and Lamentations. Cost of the 8-session book is $12. There is no need to sign up in advance, but feel free to register online. 

• Life in the Spirit: this long-standing Bethlehem group meets on the second Thursday of each month to learn and develop classic Christian practices like contemplative prayer. Meetings take place at 6:30pm and there is no need to sign up in advance. 

• Tuesday Morning Lectionary Study: Each week a group of Bethlehem members and friends gathers online at 7am to study and discuss the coming week’s preaching text. If you are interested in participating, use this Zoom link to join in.

Interested in joining a musical group here at Bethlehem? Learn more about our musical opportunities on our website and contact Charlie Leftridge at cleftridge@blcmankato.org  to join us in making joyful noise! 

Connections Shelter is reopening for the season on October 3rd, and Bethlehem is signed up for the week of Oct. 17th! Some changes this year: there will be no morning shifts and only meal providers and servers are needed. Meals will be served daily from 5:45-7:30pm. Grocery donations will be needed for our weeks and a wish list will be sent out the weekend before the week starts. There is also an afternoon cleaning session once a week. Call or text Derek at 210-863-4202 for more info. 

You can sign up to prepare food and bring it to the shelter, sign up just to serve the meal, or do both. We serve up to 35 guests every evening. If that number changes, we will notify you beforehand. Sign up here for a meal shift. 

Bethlehem is signed up for the following weeks: Oct. 17, Dec. 5, Jan. 23, Mar 20, May 22. Text Derek if you are interested in helping to coordinate Bethlehem’s weeks. 

The Bethlehem Gait-Keepers led the way at the 2022 ALS Walk at Spring Lake Park on Saturday. Bethlehem had a great group raising funds and bringing awareness to this important cause. Thank you!

A note from our friends at Crossroads Campus Ministry: 

“Thank you to Bethlehem Lutheran Church and the volunteers who prepared and served our first Lunch for-a-Buck to hungry college students on Tuesday, September 6. Jane Blaisdell, Jeri Clement and Kathryn Sargent served a delicious chicken fajita luncheon with tortillas and homemade cake to 20 students and brought in $16 in donations that will help us fund the purchase of the salads, beverages and table supplies for future lunches. Students look forward to these weekly homemade hot lunches to help them get through the day. Thank you for your generosity and continued support of our ministry at Crossroads.”

Our September monthly mission is Iambi Secondary School (ISS). This boarding school has a 200 student capacity and 20 staff members. Academically, ISS has been doing very well. It is a leading school in the Mkalama district and it is among the top ten schools in the Singida region.

Gifts from Bethlehem have been transformative for ISS: our past generosity has enabled the school to install electricity, allowing students and teachers to study and prepare lessons after the sun has set. As a result, test results soared and enrollment has boomed. 

Our goal is $7,000. Please give prayerfully and financially to our friends at Iambi Secondary School. You can give online here. Thank you, Bethlehem! 

REMINDERS: 

• Wednesday night worship resumes this week! Check out the calendar to see the latest music, worship, and event schedules. 

• Volunteers can now reference our serving schedules online!

• Our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start on Oct. 2. Our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am. 

Photos from Pride Fest 2022 and Sunday’s God’s Work, Our Hands celebration.

Did you get some great photos this weekend? Send them to blchurch@blcmankato.org or tag us on Facebook and Instagram!

Hello Bethlehem,

It was a wonderful weekend at Bethlehem! We had a great turnout for Pride Fest 2022 on Saturday, with an enthusiastic group of marchers and a busy booth. Thank you to our Welcome and Inclusion board and everyone who showed their pride! Then on Sunday we began our God’s Work, Our Hands celebration. After a music-filled worship service we packed school kits, enjoyed games and a photo booth, hopped in the bounce house, and enjoyed a delicious outdoor meal. Special thanks to Amy Haigh and the Engles for providing a great meal, and thank you to all of the volunteers and attendees who made it a wonderful day! It is great to see so many new and familiar faces here at Bethlehem. 

God’s Work, Our Hands will continue this Wednesday, September 14th! The whole congregation is invited to join us as we reconnect with our church family and celebrate with worship, service, food, and fun! We will kick off Wednesday night programming with dinner at 5pm and worship at 6:15pm. We will have school kit assembly in Grounds for Joy from 6:45-7:45pm and outdoor beautification projects, a scavenger hunt, bounce house, mural making, and more! This is a great opportunity to learn more about our small groups, and to sign up for musical, educational, and volunteer opportunities.

Included in this year’s celebration, Hy-Vee will be offering a Flu Shot Clinic in Grounds for Joy this Wednesday from 5-7pm. Registration is not required and walk-ins are welcome! Hy-Vee will offer Flu Shots, Covid Boosters, and Take-Home Covid Tests. Please bring your ID, vaccine record card, and prescription insurance or Medicare card. 

Wednesday Night Suppers are back at Bethlehem. Our own Amy Haigh has assumed supper planning and coordination and JD Truffles Catering will prepare a variety of delicious weekly meals; view the September menu on our website! Bethlehem volunteers will greet and serve you. Connect and converse with fellow members and community residents. All are welcome!

The ALS WALK is happening this weekend! Please join the Bethlehem Gaitkeepers on Saturday, September 17th at Spring Lake Park Shelter #1. Check in begins at 8:30am and the walk begins at 10am. The walk is 2.5 miles and a great way to honor Pastor Don and walk in memory of Jon Nelson. Donation forms are available in the office or can be filled out at Spring Lake on the day of the walk. Don’t miss this chance to be the cheering squad and hop in that group photo! We are hoping for a great turnout for ALS. Questions? Contact Ginger Erlandson, Rerlandson2@gmail.com.

Groups are starting back up! Bethlehem is blessed with many wonderful opportunities to connect with one another and grow our faith. Here’s a quick look at some of our groups and what they have to offer: 

• ??????? Name This Group! We’re forming a new group on a familiar idea. Three BLC couples/individuals will be matched up and set up three different get togethers over a meal, each hosted by a member of the group. Have these three “eats and meets” before Jan. 1 and we will pair you up with a new group after the holidays! Sign up here to participate. The winning name will be picked by staff Sept. 14th. The winner will receive a $10 gift card to the Coffee Hag!

• BLC Men: The mission of our BLC Men’s Group is to grow closer to God as we grow closer to one another. We will begin again on Monday, Sept. 12, with grilling and a get together at Derek Brown’s home. RSVP to pastorjay@blcmankato.org for more information, or fill out the registration form to join. Other BLC Men’s Fall Events will include serving Lunch for a Buck at Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry on Oct. 4, Rake the Town on Nov. 12 with Bethlehem Youth, and the 3rd Annual BLC Men’s Bowling Championship on Dec. 1. 

• Book of Faith: this group meets each Wednesday morning at 10:30am in Grounds for Joy to open Scripture and join in conversation. This fall will focus on Jeremiah and Lamentations. Cost of the 8-session book is $12. There is no need to sign up in advance, but feel free to register online. 

• Life in the Spirit: this long-standing Bethlehem group meets on the second Thursday of each month to learn and develop classic Christian practices like contemplative prayer. Meetings take place at 6:30pm and there is no need to sign up in advance. 

• Tuesday Morning Lectionary Study: Each week a group of Bethlehem members and friends gathers online at 7am to study and discuss the coming week’s preaching text. If you are interested in participating, use this Zoom link to join in.

New members welcome! Our New Member Orientation will be held September 18th at 10:45am. Click to learn more about Becoming a Member.

Connections Shelter is reopening for the season on October 3rd, and Bethlehem is signed up for the week of Oct. 17th! Some changes this year: there will be no morning shifts and only meal providers and servers are needed. Meals will be served daily from 5:45-7:30pm. Grocery donations will be needed for our weeks and a wish list will be sent out the weekend before the week starts. There is also an afternoon cleaning session once a week. Call or text Derek at 210-863-4202 for more info. 

You can sign up to prepare food and bring it to the shelter, sign up just to serve the meal, or do both. We serve up to 35 guests every evening. If that number changes, we will notify you beforehand. Sign up here for a meal shift. Bethlehem is signed up for the following weeks: Oct. 17, Dec. 5, Jan. 23, Mar 20, May 22. Text Derek if you are interested in helping to coordinate Bethlehem’s weeks.

We want YOU on the Lefse crew! Rollers and flippers are needed to make lefse Friday, November 18th. No experience required: we will teach you this delicious tradition! Once we are able to secure enough volunteers, we will begin taking Lefse pre-orders. We hope you will join us in creating this yummy treat in time for Thanksgiving! Contact Ginger Erlandson by October 1st to sign up. Email rerlandson2@gmail.com or call 507-278-3007. 

Our September monthly mission is Iambi Secondary School (ISS). This boarding school has a 200 student capacity and 20 staff members. Academically, ISS has been doing very well. It is a leading school in the Mkalama district and it is among the top ten schools in the Singida region.

Gifts from Bethlehem have been transformative for ISS: our past generosity has enabled the school to install electricity, allowing students and teachers to study and prepare lessons after the sun has set. As a result, test results soared and enrollment has boomed. 

Our goal is $7,000. Please give prayerfully and financially to our friends at Iambi Secondary School. You can give online here. Thank you, Bethlehem! 

REMINDERS: 

• Wednesday night worship resumes this week! Check out the calendar to see the latest music, worship, and event schedules. 

• Volunteers can now reference our serving schedules online!

• Our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start on the following dates: Sept. 18, Oct. 2. During these dates, our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am.

Hello Bethlehem,

Happy Labor Day! We have a lot of exciting events coming up, as well as the kick off of fall programming. Learn more and get registered below! 

Rally Day, aka, God’s Work, Our Hands, is coming up on September 11th & 14th! The whole congregation is invited to join us for God’s Work, Our Hands as we reconnect with our church family and celebrate with worship, service, food, and fun! This is a great opportunity to learn more about our small groups, and sign up for musical, educational, and volunteer opportunities.

Sunday’s schedule includes a pre-worship Sunrise Stretch and Devotional at 6:51am. Service will begin at 9:30am followed by coffee in the library, school kit assembly in Grounds for Joy, and a whole host of interactive activities, including a scavenger hunt, bounce house, mural making, and outdoor beautification projects, including the painting of court lines by the basketball hoop! We hope you’re hungry: the picnic hog roast starts at 11:15am! 

On Wednesday we will kick off Wednesday night programming with dinner at 5pm and worship at 6:15pm. We will have school kit assembly in Grounds for Joy from 6:45-7:45pm and outdoor beautification projects, a scavenger hunt, bounce house, mural making, and more!

Included in this year’s celebration, Hy-Vee will be offering Flu Shot Clinics in Grounds for Joy on Sunday from 10:45am to noon and Wednesday from 5-7pm. You can sign up in advance online, in the office, or at the Welcome Kiosk, but registration is not required and walk-ins are welcome! Hy-Vee will offer Flu Shots, Covid Boosters, and Take-Home Covid Tests. Please bring your ID, vaccine record card, and prescription insurance or Medicare card.

Get ready to show your pride! Members are invited to be a Reconciling In Christ presence at Mankato PrideFest 2022! Marchers are welcomed and encouraged to put on their Bethlehem and/or rainbow attire and join in the parade Saturday, Sept. 10th! Some important parade info: 

• Report to the staging area, in the parking lot of Bridge Plaza, 201 North Riverfront Drive, between 10:30-11am. The parade begins at 11:15am sharp!

•  We ask that you do not park in the library parking lot to avoid being towed. Arrive early so that you can find parking in the Old Town/Downtown area or in the surrounding residential areas. 

• While in the parade, please do not throw anything; you may hand items to the crowd.

• No dogs unless they are certified service animals. 

• Parade safety volunteers will be present in yellow vests will be present to assist and direct should there be any changes (like rerouting for a passing train!) 

Whether you show up to march or just watch the parade and enjoy the festival, we hope to see you there!

Groups are starting back up! Bethlehem is blessed with many wonderful opportunities to connect with one another and grow our faith. Here’s a quick look at some of our groups and what they have to offer: 

• ??????? Name This Group! We’re forming a new group on a familiar idea. Three BLC couples/individuals will be matched up and set up three different get togethers over a meal, each hosted by a member of the group. Have these three “eats and meets” before Jan. 1 and we will pair you up with a new group after the holidays! Sign up here or on our website  by Sept. 13th to participate. You’re also invited to submit a name for this group. The winning name will be picked by staff Sept. 14 and the winner will receive a $10 gift card to the Coffee Hag!

• BLC Men: The mission of our BLC Men’s Group is to grow closer to God as we grow closer to one another. We will begin again on Monday, Sept. 12, with grilling and a get together at Derek Brown’s home. RSVP to pastorjay@blcmankato.org for more information, or fill out the registration form to join. Other BLC Men’s Fall Events will include serving Lunch for a Buck at Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry on Oct. 4, Rake the Town on Nov. 12 with Bethlehem Youth, and the 3rd Annual BLC Men’s Bowling Championship on Dec. 1. 

• Book of Faith: this group meets each Wednesday morning at 10:30am in Grounds for Joy to open Scripture and join in conversation. This fall will focus on Jeremiah and Lamentations. Cost of the 8-session book is $12. There is no need to sign up in advance, but feel free to register online. 

• Life in the Spirit: this long-standing Bethlehem group meets on the second Thursday of each month to learn and develop classic Christian practices like contemplative prayer. Meetings take place at 6:30pm and there is no need to sign up in advance. 

• Tuesday Morning Lectionary Study: Each week a group of Bethlehem members and friends gathers online at 7am to study and discuss the coming week’s preaching text. If you are interested in participating, use this Zoom link to join in.

New members welcome! Our New Member Orientation will be held September 18th at 10:45am. Click to learn more about Becoming a Member.

And finally… after 3 cancellations… the ALS WALK is going to happen! Please join the Bethlehem Gaitkeepers on Saturday, September 17th at Spring Lake Park Shelter #1. Check in begins at 8:30am and the walk begins at 10am. The walk is 2.5 miles and a great way to honor Pastor Don and walk in memory of Jon Nelson. Donation forms are available in the office or can be filled out at Spring Lake on the day of the walk. Don’t miss this chance to be the cheering squad and hop in that group photo! We are hoping for a great turnout for ALS. Questions? Contact Ginger Erlandson, Rerlandson2@gmail.com. 

Bethlehem is in the news! Blood Drives hosted at BLC make a difference; check out this local story to learn more. Our next Blood Drive will be held December 22. 

Our September monthly mission is Iambi Secondary School (ISS). This boarding school has a 200 student capacity and 20 staff members. Academically, ISS has been doing very well. It is a leading school in the Mkalama district and it is among the top ten schools in the Singida region.

Gifts from Bethlehem has been transformative for ISS: our past generosity has enabled the school to install electricity, allowing students and teachers to study and prepare lessons after the sun has set. As a result, test results soared and enrollment has boomed. 

Our goal is $7,000. Please give prayerfully and financially to our friends at Iambi Secondary School. You can give online here. Thank you, Bethlehem! 

REMINDERS: 

• Wednesday night worship will resume Sept. 14. Until then, join us for Sunday worship at 9:30am or check out our Facebook, YouTube, radio broadcast, and website to stay connected! 

• Our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start on the following dates: Sept. 18, Oct. 2. During these dates, our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am.

Hello Bethlehem,

Pastor Kristin Engstrom will be back to worship with us next Sunday, September 4th. Come hear her message and say hello! 

Get ready to show your pride! Members are invited to be a Reconciling In Christ presence at Mankato PrideFest 2022! Marchers are welcomed and encouraged to join in the parade Saturday, Sept. 10! Line up is at 10:45am. Wear your Bethlehem gear! Then, volunteers are needed to table at the Pride Festival in Riverfront Park from 12-4pm. Sign up online or in the office. Whether you show up to march or just watch the parade and enjoy the festival, we hope to see you there!

Rally Day, aka, God’s Work, Our Hands, is coming up on September 11th & 14th! The whole congregation is invited to join us for God’s Work, Our Hands as we reconnect with our church family and celebrate with a day of worship, service, food, and fun!

Included in this year’s celebration, Hy-Vee will be offering a Flu Shot Clinic. You can sign up in advance online, in the office, or at the Welcome Kiosk, but registration is not required and walk-ins are welcome! Hy-Vee will offer Flu Shots, Covid Boosters, and Take-Home Covid Tests. Please bring your ID, vaccine record card, and prescription insurance or Medicare card. 

Our August mission is Crossroads Campus Ministry, a Reconciling in Christ fellowship, located on the Minnesota State University-Mankato campus. In addition to supporting students in their spiritual journey, Crossroads also provides access to food through Campus Cupboard and the "Lunch for a Buck" program every Tuesday during the school year. Bethlehem Lutheran Church has committed to serving the "Lunch for a Buck" on the 1st Tuesday of every month starting in September. We welcome groups and/or individual volunteers to help support this lunch - contact Sandy Abild at (507) 382-6867 if you are interested. In addition, we welcome your generous monetary support to the overall mission of providing a safe and welcoming place for students. Our August monetary goal for this important mission is $3,000. You can give online. Thank you and God bless.

REMINDERS: 

• Wednesday night worship will resume Sept. 14. Until then, join us for Sunday worship at 9:30am or check out our Facebook, YouTube, radio broadcast, and website to stay connected! 

• Our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start on the following dates: Sept. 18, Oct. 2. During these dates, our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am. 

Groups are starting back up! Bethlehem is blessed with many wonderful opportunities to connect with one another and grow our faith. Here’s a quick look at some of our groups and what they have to offer: 

• ??????? Name This Group! We’re forming a new group on a familiar idea. Three BLC couples/individuals will be matched up and set up three different get togethers over a meal, each hosted by a member of the group. Have these three “eats and meets” before Jan. 1 and we will pair you up with a new group after the holidays! Sign up here or on our website  by Sept. 15th to participate. You’re also invited to submit a name for this group. The winning name will be picked by staff Sept. 15 and the winner will receive a $10 gift card to the Coffee Hag!

• BLC Men: The mission of our BLC Men’s Group is to grow closer to God as we grow closer to one another. We will begin again on Monday, Sept. 12, with grilling and a get together at Derek Brown’s home. RSVP to pastorjay@blcmankato.org for more information, or fill out the registration form to join. Other BLC Men’s Fall Events will include serving Lunch for a Buck at Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry on Oct. 4, Rake the Town on Nov. 12 with Bethlehem Youth, and the 3rd Annual BLC Men’s Bowling Championship on Dec. 1. 

• Book of Faith: this group meets each Wednesday morning at 10:30am in Grounds for Joy to open Scripture and join in conversation. This fall will focus on Jeremiah and Lamentations. Cost of the 8-session book is $12. There is no need to sign up in advance, but feel free to register online. 

• Life in the Spirit: this long-standing Bethlehem group meets on the second Tuesday of each month to learn and develop classic Christian practices like contemplative prayer. Meetings take place at 6:30pm and there is no need to sign up in advance. 

• Tuesday Morning Lectionary Study: Each week a group of Bethlehem members and friends gathers online to study and discuss the coming week’s preaching text. Contact the office to become involved. 

New members welcome! Our New Member Orientation will be held September 18th at 10:45am. Click to learn more about Becoming a Member.

And finally… after 3 cancellations… the ALS WALK is going to happen! Please join the Bethlehem Gaitkeepers on Saturday, September 17th at Spring Lake Park Shelter #1. Check in begins at 8:30am and the walk begins at 10am. The walk is 2.5 miles and a great way to honor Pastor Don and walk in memory of Jon Nelson. Donation forms are available in the office or can be filled out at Spring Lake on the day of the walk. Don’t miss this chance to be the cheering squad and hop in that group photo! We are hoping for a great turnout for ALS. Questions? Contact Ginger Erlandson, Rerlandson2@gmail.com. 

Hello Bethlehem,

Thank you Bethlehem members for attending and voting at Sunday’s Congregational Meeting. We are excited to share that the congregation has voted to extend a call to the candidate, who will have 30 days to respond. Thank you for your continued prayers through this exciting time. 

Tomorrow, August 23, Bethlehem will host a Blood Drive for the American Cross from 1-6pm in Grounds for Joy. Give Blood and you’ll automatically be entered to Win FREE Gas for a Year! Plus, all donors will receive a $10 e-giftcard to the merchant of their choice! Don’t miss this chance to save lives! 

Rally Day, aka, God’s Work, Our Hands, is coming up! The whole congregation is invited to join us for God’s Work, Our Hands on September 11 & 14th as we reconnect with our church family and celebrate with a day of worship, service, food, and fun. Keep your eye out for a full schedule of events!

Groups are starting back up! Bethlehem is blessed with many wonderful opportunities to connect with one another and grow our faith. Here’s a quick look at some of our groups and what they have to offer: 

• ??????? Name This Group! We’re forming a new group on a familiar idea. Three BLC couples/individuals will be matched up and set up three different get togethers over a meal, each hosted by a member of the group. Have these three “eats and meets” before Jan. 1 and we will pair you up with a new group after the holidays! Sign up here or on our website  by Sept. 15th to participate. You’re also invited to submit a name for this group. The winning name will be picked by staff Sept. 15 and the winner will receive a $10 gift card to the Coffee Hag!

• BLC Men: The mission of our BLC Men’s Group is to grow closer to God as we grow closer to one another. We will begin again on Monday, Sept. 12, with grilling and a get together at Derek Brown’s home. RSVP to pastorjay@blcmankato.org for more information, or fill out the registration form to join. Other BLC Men’s Fall Events will include serving Lunch for a Buck at Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry on Oct. 4, Rake the Town on Nov. 12 with Bethlehem Youth, and the 3rd Annual BLC Men’s Bowling Championship on Dec. 1. 

• Book of Faith: this group meets each Wednesday morning at 10:30am in Grounds for Joy to open Scripture and join in conversation. This fall will focus on Jeremiah and Lamentations. Cost of the 8-session book is $12. There is no need to sign up in advance, but feel free to register online. 

• Life in the Spirit: this long-standing Bethlehem group meets on the second Tuesday of each month to learn and develop classic Christian practices like contemplative prayer. Meetings take place at 6:30pm and there is no need to sign up in advance. 

• Tuesday Morning Lectionary Study: Each week a group of Bethlehem members and friends gathers online to study and discuss the coming week’s preaching text. Contact the office to become involved.  

New members welcome! Our New Member Orientation will be held September 18th at 10:45am. Click to learn more about Becoming a Member.

Get ready to show your pride! Members are invited to be a Reconciling In Christ presence at Mankato PrideFest 2022! Marchers are welcomed and encouraged to join in the parade Saturday, Sept. 10! Line up is at 10:45am. Wear your Bethlehem gear! Then, volunteers are needed to table at the Pride Festival in Riverfront Park from 12-4pm. Sign up online or in the office. Whether you show up to march or just watch the parade and enjoy the festival, we hope to see you there!

And finally… after 3 cancellations… the ALS WALK is going to happen! Please join the Bethlehem Gaitkeepers on Saturday, September 17th at Spring Lake Park Shelter #1. Check in begins at 8:30am and the walk begins at 10am. The walk is 2.5 miles and a great way to honor Pastor Don and walk in memory of Jon Nelson. Donation forms are available in the office or can be filled out at Spring Lake on the day of the walk. Don’t miss this chance to be the cheering squad and hop in that group photo! We are hoping for a great turnout for ALS. Questions? Contact Ginger Erlandson, Rerlandson2@gmail.com. 

Our August mission is Crossroads Campus Ministry, a Reconciling in Christ fellowship, located on the Minnesota State University-Mankato campus. In addition to supporting students in their spiritual journey, Crossroads also provides access to food through Campus Cupboard and the "Lunch for a Buck" program every Tuesday during the school year. Bethlehem Lutheran Church has committed to serving the "Lunch for a Buck" on the 1st Tuesday of every month starting in September. We welcome groups and/or individual volunteers to help support this lunch - contact Sandy Abild at (507) 382-6867 if you are interested. In addition, we welcome your generous monetary support to the overall mission of providing a safe and welcoming place for students. Our August monetary goal for this important mission is $3,000. You can give online. Thank you and God bless.

REMINDERS: 

• Wednesday night worship will resume Sept. 14. Until then, join us for Sunday worship at 9:30am or check out our Facebook, YouTube, radio broadcast, and website to stay connected! 

• Our radio broadcast will be preempted by the Twins early start on the following dates: Sept. 18, Oct. 2. During these dates, our radio playback will be at 5pm instead of 11am.