bethel banner february 2013
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Bethel's monthly newsletterTRANSCRIPT
Bethel Lutheran Church
1321 North Avenue Northfield, MN 55057 507.786.6674
www.facebook.com/bethellutheran
http://bethelnorthfield.org/bethel-banner-newsletter/
Adult Ed 14
Befrienders 7
Calendar 10
Children/Nursery 6-7
Council 12
Creation Care 15
Finance 12
Membership 3
Mission & Justice 2
Mission Interp. 18
Seniors 4
Scrip 8
Thank You 19
Winter Retreat 15
Worship Servants 16
Youth/YES 8-9
Capital Campaign 2
Inside this issue:
The Bethel Banner
The Bethel Banner
The Bethel Banner
The Bethel Banner
Volume #499 February 2013
… and much more!
Valentine's Day Dinner Bethel-style. Tickets are $20 per person (an optional $15 senior citizen rate is available) and are being sold between services until February 3.
Treat yourself and support the Bethel youth all at once!
Ticket are on sale now for the 10th annual Bethel Youth Valentine Dinner. Once again, we’ll be treated to an elegant night with a gourmet menu, top-notch entertainment, and free babysitting!
Join us in the Bethel CLC from 5–7:30 p.m. on Sunday evening, February 10, for a special Valentine’s Day dining experience,
Wednesday Afternoon Adult Education ~ Wednesdays, February 20 - March 27, 2013 - A Lenten Journey Through Prayer ~ There are many ways
to pray and many tools that we can use in our prayer practices. Guest speakers with expertise in different forms of prayer will introduce you to some of the tools used by Christians when they pray.
February 20 ~ Breath Prayers with Marian McKone
February 27 ~ Icons with Pastor Keith Homstad
March 6 ~ Prayer beads with Christine Stanton
March 13 ~ Mandala with Barb Holm
March 20 ~ Labyrinth with Pam Santerre
You are welcome to join us for any or all of these opportunities for prayer. If you have any questions, please contact the church office.
Prayer is our theme for this year’s Lenten Season at Bethel. Bethelites of all ages will have many opportunities to explore and learn about the how, when, where, and why of prayer.
Sunday Morning Adult Forums~ Sundays, February 17 - March 24, 9:45 a.m. - Praying The Lord’s Prayer during Lent ~ "Lord, teach us to pray." There are many prayers and many ways of praying, but this prayer cuts to the heart of how we relate to God and to one another. Join Pastor Tim, Pastor Charlie and guest speakers on Sunday mornings during Lent as we focus on each of the seven petitions of the Lord's Prayer. Guests include Tom and Julie Allen and Prof. Deanna Thompson.
Sunday School for Our Children ~ Our 3rd graders and their parents will be attending a four-week Sunday School class together on prayer during Lent, and our Grade 2, 4, and 5 Sunday School classes will also be focused on prayer.
Lent 2013
"Lord, Teach Us to Pray"
Page 2 The Bethel Banner
formed an advisory group comprised of Bethel members. In an attempt to get as many viewpoints as possible, this group held a congregational meeting in October and smaller focus groups in December. Through these meetings, one message came loud and clear, "We do not want to be facility poor!"
We cannot service our debt and maintain the ministries and programs this fine facility was built for. After prayerful and careful consideration, the Church Council decided to proceed with a third capital campaign with a focus on reducing our debt, and to retain the services of a consultant to assist us.
Proposals from three outside firms and one in-house group were reviewed and representatives were interviewed. At the December meeting, the Church Council decided to retain the services
[The following article is abridged from a temple talk in January given by former congregational president and current capital campaign co-chair Don Pavek. Tracy Nelson will also serve as capital campaign co-chair.]
Greetings from Bethel leadership — Four years — wow! What a ride!
I want to update you on the current state of Bethel:
In 2007, we built our addition for $5.5 million. Our first capital campaign raised $2.3 million, and the second raised $1.8 million, bringing our current debt to $1.8 million.
Now we are trying to be prudent and avoid our own fiscal cliff. Last summer, in realizing that our current capital campaign would be concluding in June 2013, Bethel's Finance Committee asked the Church Council to review the situation. The Council
of Kairos and Associates, represented by Pastor Blair Anderson. The first tool we have been directed to use is the Church Assessment Tool, with a goal of 400 responses. [You can help us meet this goal - see more information on page 5.] We will also be updating our 2005 Long-Term Vision Plan & Strategies, and conduct a comprehensive communications audit. This is called the Listening and Preparation Phase.
We held our initial meeting with Pastor Blair on January 2, to review the proposed calendar of events.
Prayerfully consider helping with this campaign. Fifteen volunteers have been asked and moved by the Holy Spirit to take key roles. The schedule is ambitious as Commitment Sunday is May 19.
Join us — with your time, talents, treasure and prayers!
Capital Campaign Update
From the Mission and Justice Committee Vision Statement: Since we believe that service is both an obligation and a privilege of the Christian life, we seek to provide opportunities for Bethel members to learn about the needs of others in our world and to put their knowledge into action, heeding Christ's call to "Love your neighbor as yourself."
On February 24, Bethel is hosting a wonderful family event for the whole Northfield community - the 5th Annual Peace and Justice Gathering. Local organizations which work for peace and justice will have displays and answer questions about their work. Two music groups, the Northfield Troubadours Youth Choir, and Bonnie and the Clydes, will perform; Build Bridges Not Walls (the Northfield High School group that studied peacemaking in Oslo) will give a presentation; we will have face painting and storytelling; children and youth can make wooden peace poles and walk the Peace Path; there will be open microphone time for people to tell about the peace and justice work they do. This will be a fun as well as
informative experience for adults, children, and all ages in between. A nursery will be provided. Cookies and lemonade will be served. Mark your calendars now so you don't miss this great event. Remember — Sunday, February 24, 1:30-3:30 p.m. in the CLC. Fun for the whole family!
As you may know by now, the theme of our study this year has been Faith and Consumption/Consumerism. Since this is such a timely and important topic, the Mission and Justice Committee has decided to continue our study of this issue throughout next year too. We have a wealth of related materials, including books, bibliographies, printed suggestions for aligning our consumption with our faith, and copies
(both DVDs and paper copies) of the fall forum presentations. Be sure to ask a committee member for help in getting any of these. If you have suggestions for our forums and classes for next year, please call Paula Mathison at 645-7546.
Mission and Justice Committee members include Mary Carlsen, Clark Cary, Carol Cole, Judy Dirks, Dottie Hammer, Kay Lee Henderson, Curt Johnson, Paula Mathison, Gordy Olson, and Kaethe Schwehn.
If you would like to join the Mission and Justice Committee, we would love to have your company. Let any of the members know and/or join us at our next meeting on February 7 at 7 p.m.
popular music and the wider culture
� Preaching at the Affirmation of Baptism service for 45 Bethel 10th graders at Boe Chapel
� Administering the promises of Baptism to five youngsters in one day last April!
� Attacking hunger with youth on a service day to Feed My Starving Children, and promoting and participating in the annual CROP Hunger Walk
� Nurturing our stewardship alongside the Stewardship Committee organizing speakers, brunches, devotionals, and worship centered in “Changing Lives and Making a Difference”
This is but a sampling of ways I witnessed and was privileged to be involved with God’s word happening among us this year. But the best part is witnessing the word active in all of you — you who are fed and nourished by this word and all the ways you enact and spread it. Thank you!
The year ahead will bring with it some new challenges, decisions, and discernment for how we will continue to follow Christ and journey in ministry as a church. One key item will be our ministry of financial stewardship as we will finish the current capital campaign
February 2013 Page 3
For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth ….so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it. -Isaiah 55:10-11
Dear Bethel-ites,
There is at least one thing certain about this past year in the church; God’s word continues to be prevalent in our congregation. The word of Christ is constantly preached, sung, shared, learned, and enacted in many and great ways at Bethel, and as the above scripture promises, God’s word does what it says – it gathers, enlightens, makes holy, forgives, heals, raises up, gives hope, and keeps us in faith. This simple yet profound truth is what I feel thankful to lift up as I look back on the past year and look ahead to God’s ministry to, with, and through us in this community.
As a pastor, I am often privileged to see this word poured out and am honored to be involved in many aspects of how it is communicated and bestowed. A few highlights and key developments which were personal for me this year included:
� Taking on new administrative roles, becoming supervisor to our excellent Directors of Youth and Children’s Ministry, Pastoral Minister, and Audio/Visual Manager
� Engaging in continued development and innovation of Bethel’s technological tools and usage
� Leading classes on Lutheran theology in Christian faith, and a class, Rock ‘N Faith, examining how our faith engages us with
and begin a new one in order to responsibly address our debt and imagine, uphold, and enact new mission possibilities. Another key item will be our ministry of worship as we address our growing need to be able to accommodate and welcome more people into our worship space. These will be issues of great importance and contemplation. I hope you engage with the discussions and efforts which will be a highly influential piece of how Bethel will operate in years to come. It will not be easy discernment, but I take joy in knowing that God’s word will be in the midst of us along the way, doing and accomplishing its good purpose.
As I say every year, thank you for allowing me to be pastor with and among you. May the word dwell in you and Bethel richly and may it succeed in the thing for which God has sent it!
From the Associate Pastor...
P.S. If you have not completed our current Church Assessment Tool survey, take time and do it today! See the article on page 5 for more details.
Membership Matters Are you looking for a church home? If so, you are invited to join the Bethel staff for a casual pizza lunch and conversation about Bethel’s mission and ministries and our hopes and dreams for the future. While not required, Membership Matters may help you decide if Bethel is the right congregation for you! Nursery care will be provided.
Join us on February 17, from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Christian Life Center. For more information, contact Pam Santerre, Pastoral Minister, at 786-8951.
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Jesus had earlier said he would like to visit (in Luke 19). I envisioned that Jesus would be calling Zacchaeus by name, sitting down, and sharing a conversation together.
This interpretation of these two Biblical stories is not some idle reflection. A conversation with Jesus in your room is about as comforting a vision as it gets. In these stories, Jesus, like Don, does not come to give pity or feel sorry for Zacchaeus (or you); he comes to listen and to talk. The outcome would seem to be a wonderful mixture of grace, joy, and well-being.
As an older adult, I find my place in life often to be rather curious. As a boy scout in my younger days, I remember that the example given in the Scout Handbook for the third Boy Scout Law, (“A scout is helpful.”) was how a scout helps old people across streets. My Handbook even had a picture of how to do that! That image obviously has not left my mind. So what do I do now that I am that older person? Am I still a scout and must I be the helper, so to speak, or should I find some scout and
During the funeral service for beloved long-time Bethel member, Florence Hovland, last November, Don Pavek spoke about the
Hovland gift many years ago of the super-sized picture of Jesus knocking on a door — that painting now hangs on the southeast wall of our sanctuary.
Because it was Don telling about the gift of that picture, I thought about that story of Jesus from Revelation in a new way. The parallel was uncanny, I thought to myself. I have heard many people heap praise on Don because he visits the homebound with such a wonderful sense of presence, friendship, sincerity, and respect. He knocks on people’s doors, he greets them by name, he sits down, and shares a conversation with them. When Don leaves, the person has a better sense of well-being for awhile.
Now I know that other people may have a different vision of what Jesus’ light knock on that door in the picture is all about. But during Florence’s funeral, what I thought of was Jesus knocking on Zacchaeus’ door, whom
allow myself to be the helped?
Back to Jesus knocking on my door. What I imagine is that Jesus comes to listen, to talk, to share, to help, and to be helped (After all, Jesus had asked Zacchaeus to prepare for his visit.). Jesus’ and Don’s examples are of two-way streets; shared friendship, grace, and joy. For me, they are recognitions that as an older person, I may not do things like I used to, but I still matter. I can still contribute, just as sometimes I need help. It’s a reciprocity of respect and care that makes life enjoyable for everybody – throughout every age.
As Don said, "When I visit anyone young or old, I always seem to get something out of it. In Florence's case, it was a hand squeeze (it mattered) to me and her. As it says in Revelation 3:20, I am blessed in return by how many smiles I receive by that knock on the door."
a Crown of Splendor
Jesus, Zacchaeus, Don Pavek, the Boy Scout Handbook, and Mattering
By Bruce Roberts
The next Senior Coffee hour is set for Monday, February 4 7, at 10 a.m. in the CLC. Bring your leftover holiday treats to share and enjoy an hour of fellowship. For more details, contact Mary Nystuen at 645-4011.
Join a bowling group for Bethelites ages 50+ at the Jesse James Lanes, on Tuesdays at 2 p.m., with a special rate of $3 per line plus free shoes and balls. This is not a high-stress league, but a chance to have fun with friends. Come as you are and as often as you can! Contact Pastor Henry at 663-0143 for more details.
Seniors ~ Seniors Seniors ~ Seniors Seniors ~ Seniors Seniors ~ Seniors
Of Interest to Our Seniors
Do You Like Cats? Two Northfield women, Claiborne Day and Gayle Marsh (pastor at All Saints Episcopal Church) are teaming up to help pair Northfield seniors with shelter cats. Shelters are often overrun with great cats in need of homes. Many seniors are looking for companionship but struggle with the finances to support a pet. If you would be interested in volunteering your time, offering ideas, or helping with funding for this project, please contact Claiborne at [email protected] or 645-4476, or Judy Dirks at 645-4209.
February 20, leaving the Bethel parking lot at 10:15 a.m. Sign up for this event is already closed.
What does it mean to live the Sacred In-Between? Find out about the adult winter retreat (Saturday, February 23) on page 15!
Make Hunger Disappear! That’s the theme that has been chosen by the Y.E.S. Team (Youth Energized to Serve) for this year’s March Food Drive. Once again we’re expecting some fun twists and turns for this year’s drive! As has become our tradition, we’re looking forward to kicking off the drive on Sunday, February 24, when Jim Blaha, the director of the Community Action Center, will be a featured Temple Talk speaker during worship. The need continues to be great. Please plan to be a part of this important effort by bringing your donations of
The deadline to sign up for AAAAdult CCCChristians TTTTogether
SSSSocially (ACTS) groups is Sunday, February 3. This is a great way to get to know other Bethel members better in a fun, casual way. Look for the sign-up sheet on the information table in the narthex. Questions? Call Mary Nystuen at 645-4011.
The Cancer Mutual-Help Gathering for Bethel Women meets the second Monday of each month, from 1–2 p.m. in the Bethel Chapel. Please join us at our next meeting on Monday, February 11.
You’re invited to the WELCA
birthday party at the Northfield Retirement Community on Monday, February 11, at 3 p.m. in the Care Center Dining Room (located by the Bluebird and Cardinal area) not at the Chapel as in past years. Meet the residents, share a smile, a kind word and a cup of coffee. Good music will be provided also! Contact Elaine Deim at 645-9285 or Caryl Vohs at 645-6009 for more information.
“Let’s Talk!” We’re making time during the Sunday school hour for youth, parents, and other Bethel adults to meet in the youth room for discussion groups. A different topic is highlighted each session, and questions are provided. Our second “Let’s Talk” discussion will be held during the Sunday school hour on Sunday, February 17, and will focus on the Fruits of the Spirit. Please join us for some great conversation around topics that affect and interest our youth!
Get ready to have some fun on the Bethel Women Having Fun February trip - "Bye Bye Birdie" at the Chanhassen on Wednesday,
Bethel News
February 2013 Page 5
money and non-perishable food items to Bethel during the month of March.
The Bethel Quilters meet on the fourth Tuesday of the month (February 26) at 9 a.m. If you can tie a knot, you're already an expert! Help us meet our goal of 100 quilts this year - and enjoy the fellowship and the fun!
Bethel will be serving at Thursday's Table on Thursday, February 28. Please consider signing up at the information table near the east entrance for this important service to others. Volunteers will be needed to help with set-up, serving, and cleanup. Thursday's Table is a free community dinner served each Thursday to members of the Northfield community. Bethel will be serving three more times during the year. The dates are: April 25, June 27, and October 24.
Overheard in the narthex:
"Have you heard? Bethel needs your thoughts and opinions for the CAT!"
"Why does Bethel's cat need my opinions and thoughts? Cats only care about their opinions and thoughts, and maybe their kibble!"
"Not that cat - wait, does Bethel have a cat? That's a really good idea. I bet it would be fun for the kids, and for BeFrienders. Although it might get on the counters in the kitchen… No, wait - I'm getting off topic!"
"Okay - so whose cat are we talking about?"
"Not a cat - the C-A-T - the Congregational Assessment Tool."
"What's that?"
"It's a questionnaire that Bethel needs all of its adults and some of its teens
Psssssst - You! Yeah, You!
to fill out as we get ready for the next capital campaign."
"Oh. Um. That sounds kinda boring."
"No - it's actually pretty interesting. Pastor Charlie and Tim Freeland put it together."
"I finished my last essay test in high school. I don't write anything longer than a Tweet."
"It's all multiple choice - it won't take you more than 20 minutes."
"I could do that while I wait for my kids to finish up Sunday School!"
"Yep!"
"But I still think Bethel needs a cat."
Contact the church office for a link to the CAT, or to pick up a paper copy. All Bethelites 16 and up are encouraged to participate. Thanks!
brings the fun of day camp to the camper and provides a great, Christ-centered week filled with games, worship, crafts, Bible study, and singing. Registration for GEV On the Road is done through Good Earth Village. Campers can be registered by completing an online form or downloading and printing the form at www.GoodEarthVillage.org. Questions? Contact Good Earth Village at 507-346-2494 or [email protected]. All campers must pre-register and space is limited, so please be sure to register as early as possible to insure your spot.
3rd Grade Prayer Class ~ All 3rd graders and their parents will be participating in a class on prayer from Sunday,
February 17 — Sunday, March 10. The class will meet from 9:45-10:30 in the center pod. All 3rd grade families should have received a mailing with details. Please contact Pam with your questions.
Good Earth Village On the Road is Coming Back to Northfield! GEV On the Road is a five-day program for children who have completed kindergarten through 4th grade to be held August 4-8. It
Prayer is our theme for this year’s Lenten Season at Bethel. Our 3rd graders and their parents will be attending a four-week Sunday School class together on prayer, and our Grade 2, 4, and 5 Sunday School classes will also be focused on prayer.
I encourage everyone, whether you have children in your home or not, to make prayer a focus in your home during these weeks leading up to Holy Week. In our 3rd grade prayer class, we talk about including ACTS prayers in every day. ACTS stands for Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Service.
Adoration prayers are prayers when we acknowledge the awesomeness of God and His creation.
Confession prayers are when we admit out sins, ask for forgiveness, and attempt to turn away from repeating that sin.
Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries
786-8878
Children’s Ministry Update
Church and Home Ministry ~ Partners in Faith By Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries
Pre-School Vacation Bible School will be held the same week as GEV On The Road – August 5-8. This experience is open to children who will be 4 years old by September 1, 2013, through those who have completed kindergarten in the spring of 2013. Registration information and details will be available in the Bethel Children’s Ministry Road Map that will be mailed out in late April.
Minute for Mission On January 11, after nearly a month of conflict between rebel groups and the government, a peace agreement has been reached in the Central African Republic. With the signing of the agreement, mission personnel were asked by the president of the Lutheran Church in C.A.R., Rev. Andre Golike, to return and continue their work. In February, a work group organized by LPGM will be in C.A.R. to install roofs on two staff houses at Emmanuel Health Care Center in Gallo and a nearby church. Their presence will be an incredible sign of support for the Lutheran Church in C.A.R. and the community of Gallo.
Children ~ Families ~ Children ~ Families
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Thanksgiving prayers are when we offer thanks for all God has given us.
Service (or supplication) prayers are when we pray for help for others, the world, and ourselves.
Another concept that we teach our children is that prayer is conversation with God. When we want to develop a relationship with someone, we need to spend time with that person. We need
to talk to that person. When we spend time talking with God in prayer, we are nurturing our relationship with God.
May this Lenten season strengthen our faith and the faith of our families as we incorporate the habit of regular prayer into our daily lives.
Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Colossians 4:2.
Too Good To Be True???? ~ How does a homemade, gourmet meal, live entertainment, and free childcare sound? Too good to be true? Well it's not! Sign up now for Bethel Youth's Annual Valentine Dinner on February 10! Best part? Free
Juley Jenkinson, Nursery Coordinator
786-6674 [email protected]
Artist of the Month ~ Haven't found time to make a trip up to the Walker Art Center? Stop by
the bulletin board outside of the nursery for some fabulous, local work by our very own Logan Kraby! Who knew we had such talent so close to home.
Nursery News
Sometimes after a particularly difficult conversation, we can find ourselves wondering, “I wish I
would have said…” or perhaps just as likely “Why did I say that?” After a challenging encounter with a child, trusted parenting friends have offered this advice: “Don’t worry, you’ll get another chance.” That is to say, if the behavior worked for the child once and got the desired result, that child will likely do the same again.
Adults can also act the same way in order to get their desired reaction from others. Adult siblings converse the same way as when they were children. Workplaces resemble high school classrooms.
As the season of Lent approaches we are challenged yet again to become more of the person God wants us to be. Perhaps there is an opportunity to make our homes and communities more loving and accepting. Following are some word choices that
BeFrienders describe as “non-judgmental” statements. These expressions are spoken in such a way that the hearer is not put on the defensive or left to feel that there is something wrong with them.
The simple remark “Thank you for sharing” leads the conversation into safety, not opposition. In the face of extreme criticism, the statement “Thank you for your assessment,” spoken in a calm tone, may diffuse the conflict.
February 2013 Page 7
Children ~ Families ~ Children ~ Families
Another Chance By Marci Groenewold
2013 BeFriender Training Schedule
BeFriender training continues on Thursdays through February. All sessions will be held in Classroom 61A & B and begin at 6:45 p.m.
Date Topic Presenter
February 7 Listening Skills-Confidentiality Marci Groenewold
February 14 The Visit Pam Santerre
February 21 Understanding Grief & Loss Duane Everson
February 28 Making Meaning Knight Stanley
These training sessions will be open to all currently trained BeFrienders to further their own spiritual growth and BeFriending skills.
After prayerful consideration of your situation, you might come up with your own non-judgmental statements. If you don’t have success the first time you decide to try this, it’s likely you’ll have another chance later.
Blessings from Bethel's Befrienders
†
A core Befriender principle: “Nonjudgmental Listening." For more information, call Marci Groenewold, (649-0760), Knight Stanley (612-877-0893 ), Jean Miller (645-5353), or the Bethel office (786-6674).
childcare in the nursery! Open to children of all ages, not just 0-5 kids.
The Youth Fundraising Team will meet in the Fireside Room at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, February 25.
General summer trip information was sent in January to all youth who are participating in summer trips. A few dates to remember: February 10 will be the final cancellation date – after that date you will be responsible for the total cost of your trip even if you should have to cancel; March 15 is your next payment date when half of your balance is due. Families will receive a recap of your fundraiser earnings and balance at the end of this month. Summer trip meetings will be held in March – check the March Banner for the dates of those meeting dates.
this month. Our next “mob” will be held in the Bethel Youth Center on Friday, February 1, from 7–9 p.m. This is a great time to hang with your Bethel friends, catch a movie, have a few snacks, and even play a few games, if time. All 6th – 8th grade youth are welcome – join us for a cozy, fun night with your Bethel friends! Please RSVP by Wednesday, January 30.
Hi Leaguers ~ Hi League will meet at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, February 13 and 27, this month. Plan to join your Bethel friends for some fun, relaxation, and faith talk!
9ers & Mentors ~ Mentor Bowling is coming up! Plan to join us at the Jesse James Lanes at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, February 18. More information will be sent by email in the next few weeks. Put the date on your calendars and watch your emails for further details. Please RSVP to Barb Farmer by Wednesday, February 13. This is a great chance to get to know your mentor/mentee better in a very casual setting!
Valentine Dinner ~ Our next Bethel fundraiser is the Valentine Dinner which is scheduled
for Sunday evening, February 10. The dinner will take place at Bethel in the Christian Life Center. Information has been sent to all youth about the work shifts that are available. A sign-up sheet is at the information station in the Bethel Youth Center. You may stop in, call, or email Barb to sign up for a shift. Don’t miss out on a chance to earn some money toward your summer trips and have a lot of fun at the same time!
6th Grade Connections ~ 6th Grade Connections will meet at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, February 6 and 20, this month. A parent planning meeting will take place on both those nights at 6:30 p.m. in room #61A.
“Let’s Talk!” Our second “Let’s Talk” discussion will be held during the Sunday school hour on Sunday, February 17, and will be led by our Bethel 8th and 9th grade youth. Our “Let’s Talk” sessions always provide much good discussion among youth, parents, and other Bethel adults. A different topic is highlighted during each “Let’s Talk” session and discussion questions are provided. All high school and middle school youth will meet in the Bethel Youth Center. Join us on the 5th for discussion around the topic The Fruits of the Spirit with some of your favorite Bethel adults (feel free to invite some!).
Middlers Movie Mob is back! We had a great turn-out for our first movie night in January, and we’re looking forward to another one
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Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth
Barb Farmer, Director of Youth Ministries
786-8877
From the Scrip Table... With this summer's youth trips still over four months away, there is plenty of time to impact your trip accounts with Scrip purchases. By purchasing gas and grocery cards, your budget dollars have extra impact: you receive the full value of your card purchases while an extra 2-10% of your dollars automatically flow into your trip account. That is a win-win for everyone! Don't have a youth travelling on a trip this summer? Your Scrip purchases can still be used to support a Bethel youth or can be used to support the general scholarship account.
Of course in addition to gas and groceries, there are hundreds of retailers available from whom to order Scrip cards for that birthday or anniversary meal, gifts, or other special occasions.
Caribou and Starbuck's $10 cards will continue to be available at the Scrip table each Sunday.
Youth Ministry News
February 2013 Page 9
friend, or go with your family. It takes about 30 minutes and the people you deliver to live in retirement homes very close to Bethel. Get signed up in the Youth Room or this web link at http://www.volunteerspot.com/login/entry/732345631841830094.
The March Food Drive is coming! Throughout the month of March, the Bethel Y.E.S. Team will join forces with the congregation in working towards the challenge of
Calling all middle and high school youth to join in fun service projects throughout the school year. Here's where we need you!...
Just try it once...Meals on Wheels on a Sunday! We need more youth to sign up to deliver Meals on Wheels, for the BLUE Route on at least one Sunday after the second service. Please help take part in this easy, fun and important service. Grab a
Just Say Y.E.S. … (That's Youth Energized to Serve)
raising $13,000 POUNDS AND DOLLARS to be donated to the Northfield Food Shelf. We need all middle and high school youth who are interested in helping to plan and participate in this exciting event to meet for our first planning meeting on Wednesday, February 6, at 6:30 p.m. in the library. Come see how you can take part in answering God’s call to help our neighbors in need.
Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth
Love is in the Air By Barb Farmer, Director of Youth Ministries
And they learn how much fun you all can be.
They learn a bit more about service to others and the many ways that can happen. They are able to explore different avenues of service and discover which is best suited to them. They may discover that often service isn’t about what interests us. And in some cases, they grow to understand that there can still be some joy in it and it’s worth doing well.
It lets our kids shine. Whether they’re helping to cook a gourmet meal, transforming the CLC into a stunning dining room, waiting tables with flair, sharing their talents of music or wit, or simply cleaning up with a smile and unfailing energy, you let them know how much they’re appreciated for their efforts. They know they’re valued.
It’s February and, as they say, “Love is in the air.” At Bethel at this time of year, we start looking forward to the Valentine Dinner. Menus are constructed, entertainment is chosen, decorations are crafted. Multiple teams go into high gear to transform Bethel into a lovely setting for one evening of dining and pleasure for our guests.
You may ask if it’s all worth it. My answer is a resounding yes. You see, our youth provide this dinner as a fundraiser toward their summer trips. And each of them who are a part of it earn something toward their costs.
It isn’t our largest fundraiser. However, I believe in and support this event for a number of other reasons:
It creates connections between our youth and Bethel adults that might not otherwise happen. They get to know adults who work in the kitchen or during set-up, those who decorate with them, adults they may meet for the first time as they wait tables, and those who help out with clean-up after the dinner. They get to see you in another light.
The Valentine Dinner is more than a fundraiser; it’s an intergenerational occasion that yields benefits far beyond one evening. My hope is that you’ll join us. If you’ve come in the past, continue the tradition this year; if you’ve never attended, please give it a try. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. And you’ll bless our youth with your presence.
The Bethel Valentine Dinner will be held on Sunday, February 10, from 5–7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale in the narthex until February 3.
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1 7 p.m. Middler's
Movie Mob
2
3 See schedule below
9:45 a.m. Parents K
ids
and M
oney M
atters
4 10 a.m
. Senior Coffee
Tim
e 3:30 p.m
. Northfield
Youth Choir
5 2 p.m
. Bethel Staff
meeting
7 p.m
. Capital
Cam
paign
Team Co-
Chairs m
eeting
6 See schedule below
1:30 p.m
. Stewardship
Committee meeting
4:30 p.m
. ELCA Social
Statement on Criminal
Justice
7 p.m
. 6th G
rade
Connections
7 7 a.m. N
orthfield
Schools Respect
Retreat
8 a.m. B
ethel W
omen's
Study
8:30 a.m
. Men of
Bethel
5 p.m
. Personnel
Committee meeting
6:45 p.m
. Befriender
Training
7 p.m
. Boy Scoot
Troop M
eeting
7 p.m
. Mission &
Justice Committee
7 p.m
. Church Council
8 9
10
See schedule below
9:45 a.m
. Intergenerati
onal Lenten Event
5 p.m
. Valentine's
Dinner
11
1 p.m
. Cancer Mutual-
Help G
roup
3 p.m
. NRC Birthday
Party
3:30 p.m
. Northfield
Youth Choir
6:30 p.m
. Cub Scout
and Tiger Scout
meeting
12
2 p.m
. Bethel Staff
meeting
6:30 p.m
. Liberty Park
Townhome Assn.
7 p.m
. Finance
Committee meeting
7 p.m
. Lydia Circle
7 p.m
. Scout Den
Parent meeting
13
Ash W
ednesday
11:30 a.m. A
sh
Wednesday W
orship
12 p.m
. Ash
Wednesday Luncheon
4:30 p.m
. ELCA Social
Message on M
ental
Illness
5:10 p.m
. Ash
Wednesday BAM
Chapel Services
7 p.m
. Ash W
ednesday
Worship
14
8 a.m. B
ethel W
omen's
Study
8:30 a.m
. Men of
Bethel
6:45 p.m
. Befriender
Training
7 p.m
. Boy Scoot
Troop M
eeting
15
16
Calendar — February 2013
Page 10 The Bethel Banner
17
See schedule below
9:45 a.m
. Lenten
Forum Series
12 p.m
. Mem
bership
Matters
18
9:30 a.m
. Martha Circle
3:30 p.m
. Northfield
Youth Choir
6:30 p.m
. Mentor
Bowlin
g Event
19
2 p.m
. Bethel Staff
meeting
5 p.m
. North Rice
County Thrivent Board
meeting
7 p.m
. Liberty Park
Townhome Assn.
20
See schedule below
10:15 a.m. B
ethel
Women H
aving Fun
4:30 p.m
. A Lenten
Journey Through
Prayer
7 p.m
. 6th G
rade
Connections
21
8 a.m. B
ethel
Women's Study
8:30 a.m
. Men of
Bethel
6:45 p.m
. Befriender
Training
7 p.m
. Boy Scoot
Troop M
eeting
22
23
8:30 a.m
. Adult Retreat
24
See schedule below
9:45 a.m
. Lenten
Forum Series
1:30 p.m
. Northfield
Peace and Justice Fair
25
3:30 p.m
. Northfield
Youth Choir
5:30 p.m
. Youth
Fundraising Team
6:30 p.m
. Cub Scout
and Tiger Scout
meeting
7 p.m
. Lois Circle
26
9 a.m. B
ethel Q
uilters
2 p.m
. Bethel Staff
meeting
27
See schedule below
4:30 p.m
. A Lenten
Journey Through
Prayer
7 p.m
. Hi League
28
8 a.m. B
ethel
Women's Study
8:30 a.m
. Men of
Bethel
7 p.m
. Boy Scoot
Troop M
eeting
March 17 ~ Blood Drive at Bethel
March 31 ~ Easter
May 19 ~ Commitment Sunday
February 2013 Page 11
Look for more information about events at Bethel on our
website at: www.bethelnorthfield.org
Mark Your Calendars
Weekly Wednesday Schedule
(exceptions and additions noted above)
11:30 a.m.
Lenten W
orship (begins February 13)
Noon
Lenten Lunch (begins February 13)
3:30 p.m
. BAM
5:30 p.m
. Bistro/Lenten Soup Suppers
6:30 p.m
. Vespers/Lenten W
orship
7 p.m
.
Bell C
hoir Rehearsal
7 p.m
. Adult Choir Rehearsal
7 p.m
. Confirm
ation
Weekly Sunday Schedule
(exceptions and additions noted above)
8:30 a.m
. Worship with H
oly Commun
ion
9:45 a.m
. Su
nday School and coffee fellowship
10:45 a.m. W
orship with H
oly Commun
ion
Page 12 The Bethel Banner
Highlights of the December Church Council Meeting... The Trustee reported that he is looking for a part-time weekend janitor. They are having trouble with the heat and ac unit in the sanctuary. It is 18 years old and may need to be replaced.
The Personnel Committee continues to work on the audit changes. They will also be interviewing for a Secretary/Receptionist as Paula Mathison will be leaving her position in January.
The Finance Committee reported that income is $51, 287 behind expenses, but when the budget debt reserve of $77,000 is removed we have a positive cash flow for the year. There was a review of the Building Fund and we will be sending another $10,000 pre-payment on our building loan. The 2013 proposed budget is $888,595.
The Stewardship/Benevolence Committee made decisions on how to distribute the remaining Benevolence Funds for the year. They also reviewed the fall Stewardship Campaign. They are working on ideas for personal stewardship moments and possibly offering financial success seminars in the future.
At-Large for Mission & Justice reported that there will be films about consumerism in January with discussion time to follow.
At-Large to Visual Arts reported that they are busy with their holiday decorating schedule.
At-Large for the Constitution reported that things are set for the Annual Meeting following the special meeting that moved the proposed changes to the constitution along.
There was discussion about our need for space in worship on Sunday mornings. Changes to our current schedule are being looked at.
There was discussion about a capital campaign. The comments from the focus groups were considered and a recommendation from the Task Force to retain the services of Kairos was approved.
February 2013 Page 13
Year-to-date
Benevolences
Financial News and Notes
Darla Dahl, Church Accountant
786-6687
Capital Campaign
Making Giving Simple The Bethel Finance Committee is looking into on-line giving and QR codes for giving with your smart phone. But Bethel already has an easy way to give: sign up for Simply Giving, an automated giving program offered by Thrivent, which allows you to make donations to Bethel on a scheduled, automatic basis from your bank account. It's a win-win: it is convenient for you, and it provides much-needed donation consistency for Bethel. Simply Giving can be used for your regular faith-based giving (your Sunday offering) and/or your building fund pledge to the capital campaign securely and confidentially. Best of all, the amount and schedule (monthly, quarterly, annually) can be changed at any time, quickly and easily, if your circumstances change.
How to get started ~ To set up electronic donations, simply complete the authorization form which can be found on Bethel’s website (bethelnorthfield.org) or on the information table in the narthex. Donations can be debited automatically from either a checking or savings account. Return the completed form to the church office, attention Darla
Dahl. Still have questions? Contact Darla — she's our resident expert!
Capital Campaign 07/01/10 - 06/30/13
Results as of 12/31/2012
Pledges 1,746,659
Pledges Received (1,444,744)
Pledges to be Received 301,915
Non-Pledges Received 124,177
1/15/2009 Building Debt 3,500,000
Scheduled Principal payments (316,496)
Additional Principal payments (1,574,361)
12/31/2012 Building Debt 1,609,143
Building Debt
SE M
N Synod
27,500
Cannon River Conf.-E
LCA
295
Community Action Center
3,300
Lutheran Social Services
11,000
Nfld. R
etirem
ent Center
2,400
Sem
inary Student Aid
1,000
CAC Thursday's Table
1,200
Nfld. M
inisterial Assoc.
50
Global M
ission/Justice
6,871
Benevolence Contingency
1,000
ELCA W
orld H
unger
3,271
ELCA 100 W
ells Project
3,317
Sunday School- ISLA
416
Sun. Sch.- 8th G
r. M
ission
Trip
445
Total Sunday School
861
CAC Food Shelf
16,367
Soup Suppers
2,692
Total CAC Food Shelf
19,060
Easter Offering 2012
Habitat- 50%
2,790
Torch- 25%
1,395
House of Hope- 25%
1,395
5,580
Thanksgiving Offering 2012
Malaria Cam
paign
3,320
3,320
Christmas O
ffering 2012
Hurricane Sandy
7,475
7,475
Malaria
340
Good Sam
aritan Funds used
4,565
Youth Scholarship funds used
513
Alternative Giving Fair 2012
7,336
110,254
as of 12/31/12
Adult Ed, continued on Page 15.
The Bethel Banner Page 14
February 17 - March 24 - Praying The Lord’s Prayer during Lent ~ "Lord, teach us to pray." There are many prayers and many ways of praying, but this prayer cuts to the heart of how we relate to God and to one another. Join Pastor Tim, Pastor Charlie and guest speakers on Sunday mornings during Lent as we rediscover this
ancient prayer and the power it has in shaping our lives.
April 7 – Estate Strategy Essentials - Learn the three essential elements of estate planning. A Thrivent educational workshop offered by Andrew Gray, Bethel member and Thrivent Representative.
April 14 - May 12 – Bethel Member Testimonies
On Sunday AfternoonsOn Sunday AfternoonsOn Sunday Afternoons
Membership Matters - February 17, and April 14, 12 to 1:30 p.m. in the Christian Life Center. Visitors have two more opportunities this year to attend Bethel’s Membership Matters class. If you are looking for a church home, you are invited to join the Bethel staff on one of these dates for a casual pizza lunch and conversation about Bethel’s mission and ministries and our hopes and dreams for the future. While not required, Membership Matters may help you decide if Bethel is the right congregation for you! Nursery care will be provided. Contact the church office if you would like to attend.
Adult Ed Opportunities Adult Ed Opportunities Adult Ed Opportunities during the Weekduring the Weekduring the Week
Monday Evenings
WELCA Bible Study ~ Audrey West’s study, "Gathered by God," is a word study on ‘gather’, covering topics such as: gather to learn, gather for fellowship, gather for support, gather to be empowered, gather to be sent. This study is open to anyone, including
The heart of Bethel’s mission is to build and equip disciples for Christ and His Kingdom. Through adult educational opportunities, we trust that God is actively nurturing faith, growing knowledge, and empowering our community to live as disciples of Jesus Christ. Please consider participating in the following adult education opportunities:
For all Adults on For all Adults on For all Adults on Sunday MorningsSunday MorningsSunday Mornings, from 9:45–10:30 a.m.
Mathetes - in the Fireside Room with Pastor Tim. Join a discussion about the weekly Biblical texts.
Adult Faith Forums – in the sanctuary
February 3 – Parents, Kids, and Money Matters® This values-based, money management presentation will give you ideas for how to speak to your 6–10 year olds about money. Parents gain a better understanding of how to reflect on the values they want their kids to learn and learn practical tools to make teaching about money fun. This educational workshop will be presented by Andrew Gray, Financial Associate, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans®
February 10 – ELCA Social Message on Mental Illness ~ In November 2012, the ELCA Church Council voted to adopt “The Body of Christ and Mental Illness” as a social message addressing the social and theological aspects of mental illness in contemporary society. Join Pastor Curt Johnson as he introduces this important study on a sensitive topic that affects many families at Bethel and in the larger community. A follow-up conversation on this topic will be offered by Pastor Curt on Wednesday, February 13, 4:30-5:30 p.m. in Classroom 62.
Bethel Adult Education Offerings circle study leaders and will meet most months on the first Monday of each month, 7-8 p.m. in the Fireside Room. Please contact Barb Holm at 507-301-8184 if you plan to attend and need the study materials.
Wednesday Afternoons, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. in Bethel Classroom 62
February 6, 2013 - ELCA Social Statement on Criminal Justice - Greg Walter presents an overview of this significant work by the ELCA.
February 13, 2013 - ELCA Social Message on Mental Illness - In November 2012, the ELCA Church Council voted to adopt “The Body of Christ and Mental Illness” as a social message addressing the social and theological aspects of mental illness in contemporary society. If you could not attend the Sunday forum on February 10 or if you’d like to continue the conversation, please join Pastor Curt Johnson for this mid-week class session.
February 20 - March 27, 2013 - A Lenten Journey Through Prayer ~ There are many ways to pray and many tools that we can use in our prayer practices. Guest speakers with expertise in different forms of prayer will introduce you to some of the tools used by Christians when they pray.
February 20 ~ Breath Prayers with Marian McKone
February 27 ~ Icons with Pastor Keith Homstad
March 6 ~ Prayer beads with Christine Stanton
March 13 ~ Mandala with Barb Holm
March 20 ~ Labyrinth with Pam Santerre
February 2013 Page 15
Thursday Mornings
Bethel Women’s Study, 8-9 a.m., Fireside Room — Women of Bethel meet each Thursday from 8 to 9 am in Bethel’s Fireside Room for good coffee and rich conversation. On Thursday, January 31, we began discussing Anne Lamott's Help, Thanks, Wow: The Three Essential Prayers. Attendees are always welcome to join us at any time and can pick up a copy of the book at Monkey See, Monkey Read in downtown Northfield. For information, contact Pam Santerre at 786-8951.
Men of Bethel (MOB), 8:30 – 9:30 a.m., Bethel Classrooms 61B - MOB will continue studying A Spirituality of Service by Jerry Aaker. The book is
Adult Education, continued from page 14.
offset provider, don’t be afraid to ask questions or research the program’s background thoroughly. A couple places to get started: terrapass.com and nativeenergy.com/climatecrisis.
TOLBY, standing for Turn Off Lights Behind You, visited BAM on the dates of Jan. 9 and 16, in the accompaniment of Emma Shriver, Director of the MN Energy Challenge. TOLBY's focus is helping children take seriously the need to use energy wisely. At the same time, TOLBY challenges people of all ages to show care for the creation through careful daily energy use.
Creation Care Tip: Are you planning to fly someplace warm this winter? Consider making your trip carbon neutral. This involves calculating how much your flight generates in greenhouse gas emissions and buying a certificate or share in a project that aims to reduce emissions by that same amount. Many carbon offset projects involve planting trees, but they can also include supporting solar and wind power or purchasing energy-efficient appliances or energy conservation schemes in developing countries. When choosing a carbon
Creation Care
There's a world of wonder, of beauty, of goodness and meaning right before our eyes. Are we looking? So often we can get stuck in the regret or nostalgia of the past, or in the anxiety for the future, when God all the while yearns to be known in the here and now! How do we live the "in-between" ordinary such that we live fully? The Bethel winter retreat explores the possibilities.
Reserve a day for you to attend the annual winter retreat with Bethel friends! Join us on Saturday, February 23, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., at the Mt. Olivet Retreat Center. The cost is $35, which includes lunch, morning & afternoon snacks.
The retreat will be led by Jim Smith, who has been giving adult retreats for over 20 years, dedicated to helping others discover the depth and breadth of God's presence in real life. He has worn the hat of pastoral leader, director of a non-profit service agency, spiritual director, and retreat leader. He holds a Master of Divinity and an MA in Applied Spirituality from the University of St. Thomas and the University of San Francisco. He currently lives in Minneapolis.
Brochures and registration forms are on the information table in the narthex. For more information, contact Pam Santerre, Pastoral Minister, at 786-8951 or [email protected]. Please register by February 12.
Winter Retreat for
Bethel Adults
Living the
Sacred-in-
Between
described as "reflections on a life-long journey of faith and work among the world’s poor." Discussion is led by Duane Everson and others. All men are welcome.
Luncheons, Retreats Luncheons, Retreats Luncheons, Retreats
Winter Retreat ~ Living the Sacred In-Between - See details (right). Brochures and registration forms are on the information table in the narthex.
Are you interested in leading an adult education event or class? Curricula, ideas, and help are available. Contact Pam Santerre at 786-8951 or [email protected].
The Bethel Banner Page 16
February Worship Servants
February 3 February 10 February 17 February 24
Assisting Minister (8:30 a.m.)
Carol Lysne Mike Ahrens Lu Lindstrom Noel Stratmoen
Assisting Minister (10:45 a.m.)
Libby Glimsdal Christina Schwietz Hannah Mahr Knight Stanley
Reader (8:30 a.m.) Barb Holm Carol Lysne Bethel Youth Jerry Williams
Reader (10:45 a.m.) Barb Farmer Pam Vig Bethel Youth Elizabeth Leer
Acolytes (8:30 a.m.) Emma Johnson, Kylie Kvernmo
Grace Peterson, Lilly Prestemon
Ben Selchow, Channing Cade
Nissa Christianson, Kit Geissler
Acolytes (10:45 a.m.) Carter Loring, Kyah Olson-Sola
Brooke Domish, Grace McDonald
Madelyn Meyer, Vera Paton
Caroline Peterson, Jack Brachmann
Sacramental Ministers (8:30 a.m.)
Mike & Sandy Ahrens, Wendell Arneson & Beth Christensen, Kitty Runzheimer
Carol Cole, Jill Eastman, Connie DeGrote, Sandy Ahrens, Rose Turnacliff
Bethel Youth Abbie Meierbachtol, Dot Swanson, Marcia Omdahl, Sandy Reiman
Sacramental Ministers (10:45 a.m.)
Jean & Henry Mueller, Dan Foley, Cindy Kreis, Barb Farmer
Barb Neitzel, Carol Lysne, Pam Vig, Sandy Peterson, Karin Smedsrud
Bethel Youth Roger & Vikki VanVeldhuizen, Pam Vig, Karin Smedsrud, Barb Farmer
Ushers (8:30 a.m.) Ellis Lysne, Bob Vanderhoof, Dale Turnacliff, Harley Foster
David and Char Jacobsen, Marilyn & Gordon Kelley
Bethel Youth Steve Meierbachtol, Jim Moberg, Roger Glasgow, Mac Gimse
Ushers (10:45 a.m.) Rollie & Nancy Ensrud, Barb & Tadd Henwood
Carol & Gerry Gengenbach, Steve & Carol O'Neill
Bethel Youth Dean Dahl, Chad & Juley Jenkinson, need one more
Greeters (8:30 a.m.) Brenda & Jon Lund Jill & Ben Fisher Karen Mader, Paul Thiboutot
Ben & Jill Fisher, Bonnie Kurtz
Greeters (10:45 a.m.) Brenda & Jon Lund Gene & Barbara Holmgren
Gene & Barbara Holmgren
Bill & Ruth Hoekstra and family
Nametags (8:30 a.m.) Jim Dimick, Mac Gimse Sonia & Gary Johnson Marc & Misty Westergren Marc & Misty Westergren
Nametags (10:45 a.m.) Mike & Sherry Foster Mike & Pat Smith Karen Mader, Jim Dimick Mike & Sherry Foster
Coffee Servers Mark & Laura Berdahl, Sonia & Gary Johnson, Blair & Barb Fowler, Jackie Gimse, Myrna Johnson, Kelly & Marcie Groenewold
Sonia & Gary Johnson, Mike & Pat Smith, John & Marion Dragelin, Blair & Barb Fowler, Myrna Johnson, Mark & Michelle Murphy
Laura & Mark Berdahl, Brenda & Jon Lund, Mike & Mary Graff, Gary & Laura Greenlund, Bonnie & Mark Johnson, Kelly & Marci Groenewold
Karen Mader, Eric & Rebecca McMullen, Peggy & Kevin Fink, Chris & Caroline Bussman, Mark & Michelle Murphy, Kelly & Marci Groenewold
The Bethel Banner The Bethel Banner
February 2013 Page 17
A Measure of Our Commitment
January Worship Attendance average per Sunday
2010 2011 2012 2013
502 478 466 *477
Average Year-to-date Worship Attendance
2010 2011 2012 2013
502 478 466 *477
*Does not include January 27, 2013
The Bethel Banner is published monthly as a ministry of Bethel Lutheran Church of Northfield, Minnesota. The congregation is invited to submit articles to the church office. Articles are due by the 15th of each month. Questions, suggestions, or comments? Contact editor Lisa McDermott at [email protected], by phone at 645-0740, or call the church office at 786-6674.
February 2013 February 2013
February 3 February 10 February 17 February 24
Altar Care Lu Lindstrom Alyce Kivell Carol Lysne Andra Hamilton
Communion Angels
Alice Dale, Arlene Neil Sharon Stoeck, Kay Gredvig Carol Cole Elaine Deim, Dick and Orpah Johnson
A/V Room (8:30 a.m.) Jordan Ett V Jack Beaumaster A
Seth Hanson V Dan Langehough A
Jordan Ett V Liam Fisher A
Seth Hanson V Ruth Nelson A
A/V Room (10:45 a.m.)
Nathan Dahlen V Ben Coleman A
David Kreis V Rose Mibus A
Andrew Kivell V Anders Peterson A
Nathan Dahlen V Joseph Kreis A
principal payments in 2012 of $236,000 saving thousands of dollars of interest.
� Gifts for benevolences totaled $110,254.
� The December 31 principal balances of our building loans totaled $1,609,168. The monthly payment of $10,973 is paid from the donations to the “Keeping Our Promise” building fund.
2013 is a new year with more members to serve, children and adults to educate, fellowship to flourish, and service to
Thank you to all who gave financial gifts to Bethel in 2012. Together we moved Bethel forward and provided for the faith-filled mission of Bethel. A few highlights:
� Offerings and other income to support the daily work of Bethel exceeded direct expenses by $62,407 which was moved to the Operating/Building Reserve Fund.
� Offerings to the “Keeping Our Promise” building fund totaled $425,690 enabling additional loan
others to continue. We ask that you prayerfully consider your financial gifts to Bethel for both daily needs and to the “Keeping Our Promise” fund.
~ Barb Fowler, Church Treasurer, and the Finance Committee
Thanks From the Finance Committee...
From Our Mission Interpreter... By Lois Stratmoen
very different from most other elections. Rev. Mark Borsma, chair of the election committee, explains, “Unlike secular elections for leadership roles, the church does not wait for qualified women and men to ‘toss their hat in the ring.’ Instead, praying constantly for the Spirit’s guidance, congregations search proactively for persons with the gifts and vision necessary for leading God’s people well.”
Through January 2013, congregations have been asked to hold discussions on the qualities they thought were important in a future bishop of this synod. (Note: I shared with you previously a website where we could each fill in a questionnaire on our own opinions about this.) They have also been asked to raise up names of potential candidates for bishop and submit them to the committee.
The next step in the process takes place on February 10th. The synod’s conferences will hold their assemblies and there will continue the conversation on gifts needed in this new leader, expectations for our synod’s bishop, and expectations for our congregations.
Bishop Harold Usgaard describes the conference assemblies as, “The ‘grassroots’ of our synod at work and…..integral to the process of the election of a bishop.”
At these assemblies, voters will have access to names and biographical information from the individuals whose names were lifted up by congregations. They will select up to three candidates to participate in forums around the synod leading up to the 2013 Synod Assembly. The Committee on the Election of a Bishop will select up to nine of the
Have you given much thought to how we get our Bishops? Who chooses them?
Do they apply for the position? Who can be a Bishop? I can’t say I’ve ever known much about the process of selecting the candidates or how they get their office but recent news items from our SE MN Synod office have made me interested enough to want more information. This is what I have found.
A Bishop must be an ordained pastor and should have the ability to be a leader, a uniter, and an ambassador. The following is quoted from the January 2013 issue of River Crossings, newsletter of our SE MN Synod.
Preparing to Elect a Synod Bishop
“Electing a bishop is one of the most important responsibilities in the life of a synod and a key responsibility of the synod assembly,” according to Ann Peterson, Vice-President of the Southeastern Minnesota Synod.
At the 2013 Southeastern Minnesota Synod Assembly, to be held June 7-8 in Rochester, voting members will elect the third bishop of this synod. In this synod, bishops are limited to two terms so Bishop Usgaard’s time as bishop will come to an end.
When a congregation calls a new pastor, they go through careful self-study, prepare a congregational profile, and evaluate potential pastors based on the particular gifts the congregation seeks. The Synod’s Committee on the Election of a Bishop is working to guide the synod through a similar process.
The process of electing a bishop is
The Bethel Banner Page 18
names raised to participate in forums around the synod in March and April. The forums will be an opportunity for the members of the synod to meet the nominees and learn their gifts and perspectives.
Our synod’s 2013 election of the bishop comes as we mark the 25th anniversary of the ELCA and of our synod – a time to look back on where our journey together has taken us but also a time to look to the future. Martin Luther wrote, “Faith is a living, daring confidence in God’s grace so certain that you could stake your life on it one thousand times.” Ann Peterson reflects on Luther’s statement saying, “As we prepare for the election and transitions that follow, we are called to consider prayerfully what God is calling us to do together as a synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in American in southeastern Minnesota, and to move ahead with that living, daring confidence in God’s grace.”
So…when the people you elected at Bethel’s annual meeting on January 27 to represent us at the synod assembly return home June 8, they will have participated in the selection of our next Bishop. What an opportunity and a responsibility that will be.
February 2013 Page 19
Thank you to Tadd Henwood for being in charge of turning off the lights in the Sunday School rooms each Sunday, at 10:30. Tadd has been very dependable about getting this job done, and we wanted Tadd to know it has been appreciated. Thank you, Tadd!!
Students in BAM have met TOLBY, the mascot, during their BAM classes in January. TOLBY (Turn Off Lights Behind You) has helped them to learn the importance of turning off lights, taking short showers, not letting faucets run, using CFL bulbs, and more. Hopefully, students will think of
TOLBY and turn off the lights when leaving the Sunday School rooms, and Tadd will only need to turn off one or two lights. Thanks.
Connie DeGrote
� Bethel often receives more thank you notes than we have space available. Some of those published are edited due to space constraints. Thank you for all you give!
We have so much to be thankful for...
Would you like to help? Katie would appreciate your support in any of the following ways:
Join us for the Walk to Cure Diabetes on February 23 at the Mall of America. Meet us at 7:15 a.m. at Best Buy (4th floor west side). We will walk from 8-9 a.m. There is a brief program afterward. No monetary donation is required or expected to participate in the walk, but we do ask that you register as a participant with “Katie’s Cure Team” at JDRF.org. If you register online by February 1, we’ll order you a “Katie’s Cure Team” T-shirt. This year will feature a new color and design!
Make a donation to “Katie’s Cure Team” at JDRF.org. Click on the link for “Walk to Cure Diabetes”.
Hello, Family and Friends! It is time for us to get planning for the JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes on Saturday, February 23. Katie’s Cure Team will be participating for the third year. Consider this your invitation to join us for a nice stroll around the Mall of America.
As many of you are aware, Katie was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes on September 15, 2009, at age 4 — her first day of preschool. Quite frankly, having this disease stinks! It is a day to day grind of blood sugar checks, counting carbohydrates, and worrying about variability in her blood sugar. It complicates playdates, dance practice, birthday parties, and going to waterparks. A cure can’t come fast enough!
There is no minimum and any amount is appreciated!
Send a message of support and encouragement to Katie at
[email protected] or 1948 270th St E Randolph, MN 55065 or 507-664-9668.
Thank you!
Charlie, Leah, Katie (7 ½) and Ellen (4) Radman
Katie Walks for the Cure Again!
Plastic/Glass Except for really busy Sundays, we have always used glass cups for Communion. Several years ago it was decided that those glass cups should be washed in the dishwasher instead of being hand washed for sanitary reasons.
Now we have a whole new problem. Our glass cups break easily in the dishwasher, and they are beginning to look milky from all the sanitizer and detergent. It costs over $2 per glass cup (plus shipping and handling on a box of 20) to replace them.
For these reasons, we are trying plastic, disposable cups in January and February.
The cost of disposable is $9.99 per 1,000, or a penny a piece. We are able to put them in the recycling when we are finished using them and there will not be a need to stand in the dish room and wash them after each use.
Because this is a trial, we definitely seek you input in this change. If you have any questions or comments about the use of plastic communion cups, please contact Sandy in the church office.
Have you taken the Bethel CAT?
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(See page 5 for details!)
Bethel Lutheran Church is a body of believers redeemed by Christ who
Call and welcome all people; Act to serve our neighbors in need; Respond with God’s love to one another; and Encourage spiritual growth.
Bethel Staff Timothy McDermott, Senior Pastor ................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Charlie Ruud, Associate Pastor ......................................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Barb Farmer, Director of Youth Ministries .................... 786-8877 .......... [email protected] Rhonda Reece, Director of Music and Worship ............ 786-8874 .......... [email protected] Sandy Peterson, Office Administrator ............................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Pam Santerre, Pastoral Minister ........................................ 786-8951 .......... [email protected] Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries ..................... 786-8878 .......... [email protected] Darla Dahl, Church Accountant ....................................... 786-6687 .......... [email protected] Catherine Engle, CYF Assistant ........................................ 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Bruce Dueffert, Lead Maintenance ................................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Ken Hu, Janitor .................................................................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Dan Kallman, Adult Choir Director ................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Jill Mahr, Youth Handbell Director .................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Elizabeth Shepley, Children’s Choir Director ................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Juley Jenkinson, Nursery Coordinator ............................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Tim Freeland, A/V Room Manager ................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Church Library ..................................................................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Bethel Banner submissions .................................................. ........................... [email protected] Pastoral Care Emergencies ................................................. 786-6674
Bethel Lutheran Church 1321 North Avenue Northfield, MN 55057 ● ● ● Phone: 507-786-6674 Web: www.bethelnorthfield.org
www.facebook.com/bethellutheran Email: [email protected]
● ● ● Return Service Requested
Non-Profit Organization
U.S. Postage Paid
Northfield, MN
55057
Permit No. 138