Bethel Lutheran Church 1321 North Avenue Northfield, MN 55057 507.786.6674

www.bethelnorthfield.org bethel@charterinternet.com

Adult Education 13

Befrienders 9

Bethel News 5

Calendar 10

Children 7

Council/Treasury 8

Glossary 18

Help Wanted 5

ISLA 4

Living Faith 12

Mission Interpreter 14

Mission & Justice 4

Music & Worship 5

Simply Giving 18

Thank You 19

Worship Servants 16

YouthQuake 6

BWHF 14

Adult Retreat 13

Inside this issue:

The Bethel Banner

Volume #474 January 2011

… and much more!

You Can Be a Good Samaritan All of us probably know someone who has fallen on tough times. No job - no transportation - homeless. No money for even the basics. Perhaps a health issue complicating everything else. For some of us, a tough decision might be, "Do I buy another coat or another TV?" but for the less fortunate, a tough decision might be, "Do I buy food to feed my family today, or gasoline so I can look for work?" The Good Samaritan Fund is money contributed by you to Bethel to help our neighbors in desperate situations. It is financially separate from our general budget. This fund can be a source of hope and help. Bethel's pastoral care team frequently gets requests for help with food, gasoline, rent, utilities, or some other one-time financial assistance. With more people in our community suffering from difficult economic crises, the Good Samaritan Fund is now running low and we need your help to replenish it. Simply write "Good Samaritan Fund" on the memo line of your check and place it in the offering basket or give it to Gloria West, Bethel's church accountant. We need to rebuild the fund to approximately $1,800-$2,500 as soon as possible. We all talk about sharing during the Christmas season, perhaps how we can help the homeless or the jobless. The Good

Samaritan Fund is a good place to start. Thank you for all that you give.

~ Noel Stratmoen, Steward

Wait a Minute! Consider attending the Bethel Adults Winter Retreat on January 14-15. Registration is due by January 4 -- see page 13 for details.

Many Thanks, Stacy! It is with reluctance that we accept the resignation of Stacy Waters as our Early Childhood Coordinator at Bethel. Stacy has served our pre-Sunday School children and their families well for over three years. She was instrumental in the design, decoration, and implementation of our new nursery during the building program of 2008. Under her care, our nursery has flourished. She has hired and managed our paid nursery staff and has coordinated our nursery volunteers. In addition, she has led the Nursery Committee and overseen their activities, including Busy Bags, New Baby Baskets, Cradle Roll, and several other important ministries. Although her leadership with our early childhood ministry will be missed, we are glad to report that she isn't going anywhere. She and her family will continue to be active at Bethel as she pursues other interests and studies. Thank you Stacy, for a job well done!

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Join Katie's Cure Team! Bethelite Katie Radman, age 5, was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes on September 15, 2009 at age 4 - her first day of preschool. This is the type of diabetes that cannot be controlled with diet or exercise. The only treatment is careful monitoring of blood sugar levels (5-8 times a day) and insulin adjusted to cover the carbohydrates Katie consumes. Her parents, Charlie and Leah, measure and monitor everything she eats with the focus of keeping her blood sugar in a safe range to prevent dangerous lows and complication-inducing highs. This year the Radman family has decided to participate in The Walk to Cure Diabetes on February 26. It will be held at the Mall of America with a focus on raising money for The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). JDRF is the leading funder of studies to find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. They are looking forward to this day to show Katie how many other people are wishing and praying for a cure for diabetes. Would you like to help? You can do one or more of the following:

Join us for the Walk to Cure Diabetes on February 26 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. 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. Make a donation of any amount to “Katie’s Cure Team” at JDRF.org. Click on the link for “Walk to Cure Diabetes”. There is no minimum and

any amount is appreciated! Send a message of support and encouragement to Katie at clradman@hughes.net or 1948 270th St. E., Randolph, MN 55065, or 664-9668. When asked why she wants a cure, Katie says, “Because I don’t want to have to get my fingers poked or have to wear a pump anymore”. When asked why other people should want to

participate in the walk she said, “Because they like me and want me to get rid of diabetes.” Please consider supporting Katie’s Cure Team - many thanks for all that you give!

The people of the Zumbro River Valley whose homes and livelihoods were damaged by the September 2010 floods continue their recovery efforts. Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota has several ways people can help with the ongoing recovery efforts in the Zumbro River Valley:

Flood Relief Help Still Needed Financial assistance is being collected by LSS, and Thrivent is matching $1 for every $3 donated. Donations can be sent to Lutheran Social Service of MN, 2485 Como Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108.

Volunteers are also needed, especially individuals skilled in construction, electrical, and plumbing. To volunteer, contact Dan Kalstabakken at 507-272-4061 or dk.lssmn.drt@gmail.com.

Our Sincerest Apologies! We were blessed to share Christmas Eve with so many of you and your loved ones! Unfortunately, the sound and video system in the CLC, where many of you were seated, decided to take the day off, so many folks were unable to see or hear our services adequately. We apologize profusely and are working to correct the problem for the future. While your worship experience may have been far from what we envisioned and planned for, we pray that Christmas was a time of great joy for you and yours, just as the angels proclaimed so many years ago.

January 2011 Page 3

From the Desk of the Senior Pastor Dear Partners, A friend of mine died last week. He died quietly, much as he lived, and suddenly. His family and friends had no warning, no time to prepare, no time to say goodbye. He died at Christmas time, his favorite time of year. Lisa and I could count on our friend coming to our door with a plate of assorted German Christmas cookies that he had painstakingly baked from his mother's traditional recipes, including rum balls that could blow your socks off, considerately wrapped separately so that the fumes wouldn't infuse the rest of the cookies. He often celebrated holidays with us, a genial guest who shellacked our girls at Norwegian Rummy, to their consternation and his delight. They were looking forward to a rematch (and revenge) this Christmas. I'm willing to guess that my friend's life didn't turn out the way he thought it would, even hoped it would. Though he had a job he greatly enjoyed, it had been preceded by a long period of joblessness and financial uncertainty. He had two children whom he loved generously and whole-heartedly, but those relationships were complicated and

sometimes painful. He wished and hoped for love, but she never appeared. One of the qualities I most admired about my friend was his hopefulness. It was couched in his German stoicism, but it was obvious to those who looked. He continued his job search in his chosen field long after many of us would have tossed our hands in the air and abandoned our calling for something easier. He continued to face the challenge of single parenting with devotion and love, and the necessary stubbornness that parenting requires. He never stopped dating. Older than I by a few years, my friend not only enjoyed meeting new people, he always knew that love was just around the corner. Most of all, though, my friend was sure that his hope lay in the manger. Perhaps you've noticed: single men under age 60 are not the most likely demographic filling the pews at any church. (Bethel has some single men in our ranks; I celebrate that you are with us!) Nevertheless, my friend had been a regular, quiet member of a church for

years, even after the Bring Your Kid to Church years were over. For my friend, the love of our Lord and Savior was central to his life, more central than the difficulties, the disappointments, the struggles. The light brought into the world 2,000 years

ago continued to shine in my friend's life; his hope was built was nothing less. Between Christmas and New Year's, Lisa, the girls and I will be attending his funeral, undoubtedly a small one. It may seem incongruous to do

so at a time of year when we are so focused on a newborn baby wrapped in swaddling clothes. But perhaps not so strange: after all, my friend celebrated his own daily birth with Jesus, and we will be celebrating the hope of his eternal life in Christ. As the girls say, we will be going to a sad party, but a party nonetheless. As we celebrate the Christmas and Epiphany seasons this year, I encourage you, even urge you: What is your hope built on? What do you hope for and who do you hope in? Your Partner in the Gospel,

Bethel Night at Thursday's Table Thursday's Table is a program that provides a free dinner to community members at the Northfield Community Resource Center (on Jefferson Pkwy.) dining room each Thursday evening beginning at 5 p.m. On January 6, Bethel members will be providing much of the staffing for the preparation, serving, and cleanup of the dinner. About 15 volunteers will be needed to provide a warm meal to the approximately 200 community members who attend each Thursday. The attendees are from single-person households and from households with larger families, and everyone in between. The attendees are from all age categories. Most come for economic reasons, but some come mainly for the companionship. Through this meal, food and conversation are shared. Please consider volunteering for Thursday's Table on January 6. Workers are needed for food preparation from 3 - 5 p.m., for room set-up from 3:30 - 5 p.m., for serving food from 4:45 - 6:30 p.m., for serving beverages and desserts from 4:45 - 6:30 p.m., for cleaning tables and resetting from 5 - 6:45 p.m., and for dining room clean-up from 6:15 - 8 p.m. Volunteers may work one or more shifts. Students wishing to help need to be 16. The sign-up sheet is located on the information table in the narthex.

The light brought into the world 2,000 years ago continued to shine in my friend's life; his hope was built was nothing less.

can imagine, we will need many new donors for this group. The need is great; the opportunity is there. We sincerely appreciate your continuing support for ISLA's effort for Open Doors to the Future for many bright, eager youth of Jalapa. We hope Bethel will be able to continue that wonderful support and extend it to one of our new students.

~Bob Mullins, ISLA Education Committee Chair

midterm GPA of 92% and a mentoring score of 90. Last year he finished with a GPA of 93.7%. Jaime will most certainly meet ISLA's college requirement of 85% over the last three years of high school. Karen Yanklis Méndez Montiel will graduate this year [with 13 of her classmates], earning a midterm GPA of 79%. ISLA is now providing scholarships to 131 high school and 12 college students. We plan to start a freshman class of 33 students in January. As you

Greetings from the ISLA Education Committee. The three

students you are supporting are all doing fine. Mirna Jaritza Gómez Tercero, just in her second year, earned an excellent 86% on her midterm exams and a mentoring score of 90. Jaime Raúl Guzmán Briones, in his fourth year, is clearly on his way to earning an ISLA college scholarship in 2012. He posted a

Page 4 The Bethel Banner

Sunday, January 16 and 23. A combination of presentation, video, and open discussion will explore our relation to our food in a variety of aspects: diet, food production, health, environment, and advocacy. The Mission and Justice Committee is continuing our immigration theme by presenting a three-week film series featuring films centered on the topic of immigration. The series will be held Wednesdays, January 12, 19, and 26 from 4-5:30 p.m. in Room 62. Come and join us for some thought provoking films and interesting discussion!

Creation Care Tip: Are you looking for heating tips? Set your thermostat as low as is comfortable and

consider installing a programmable thermostat so you can set temperatures lower when you are gone and when you sleep. Clean or replace filters on furnaces once a month or as needed. Also clean warm-air registers, baseboard heaters, and radiators and make sure they're not blocked by furniture, carpeting, or drapes.

money and also cut down on polluting carbon emissions at your home. So far, 114 Bethel households have taken the challenge as a way to care for the creation. In the process, the combined households have saved $75, 451 eliminated 830,388 lbs of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. That is huge! Please stop by the ministry table, and a member of the Creation Care team will assist you, or go to the website, MNEnergyChallenge.org and signup with the Bethel congregation. Upcoming Adult Forum: There will be a two-session presentation from the Mission and Justice Committee dealing with the Ethics of Eating. The session will be held between services on

On January 6, Bethel members will be providing

much of the staffing for Thursday's Table at the NCRC (See details on page 5.). If you can help, sign up at the information table in the narthex. Mark Your Calendars: Rice County Habitat for Humanity director Dana Clement will speak at an adult forum on Sunday, January 9. Have you signed up for the Minnesota Energy Challenge yet? On Sunday, January 9, MN Energy Challenge will be the featured ministry. You can sign up at that time and find ways to save

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."

ISLA News (Interfaith Services to Latin America)

AngelFood Ministries Do you know of a family having trouble making ends meet? AngelFood Ministries operates from St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, making food more affordable for families in our area. Each month’s menus are different and can be viewed on-line. For more information, go to www.angelfoodministries.org or call Deborah Ward at 581-0952.

admission. Thank you for the privilege of sharing the presence of Christ with you in your time of need.

Bethel News

January 2011 Page 5

Calling All Seniors to Fellowship (Just Follow the Smell of Coffee!) ~ The monthly senior coffee hour will be held on Monday, January 3, at 10 a.m. in the CLC. Bring any leftover goodies to share and join the fun! Questions? Call Mary Nystuen at 645-4011. Bethel Women Having Fun will have lunch in the King's Room at St. Olaf on January 18, leaving the Bethel parking lot at 11:15 a.m. Look for a sign-up sheet in the narthex.

The annual Meeting of the Congregation will be held on Sunday, January 30, 2011, at 9:45 a.m. in the sanctuary. All members are welcome and encouraged to

attend. Questions? Contact the church office or Don Pavek, Congregational President. Update your address books! Most Bethel email addresses have changed due to a policy change from our web host. Please make note of the new addresses on the back cover of the Banner.

Do you like to take pictures? We need a Camera Corps, a group of Bethelites willing and able to take digital

pictures at Bethel events to keep our website fresh and interesting. Interested? Contact the church office. If You Are In the Hospital…. Bethel's pastoral staff would like to be there for you when you are admitted to the hospital or other facility for illness or surgery, but due to privacy regulations, we do not get a call from the hospital when you are admitted. If you would like a pastoral care provider to visit you, please be sure that someone — you or a family member or a friend — calls the Bethel office to let us know of your

Rhonda Reece, Director of Music and Worship

786-8874 bethelmusic@gmail.com

Hope to see you there! For any questions, just email Rhonda.

Over 20 singers have joined so far; we'd love for you to add your voice as we sing music to honor our Creator. We'll sing an anthem in worship at least once a month; sometimes more. Though our rehearsal time is short; we'll make it sweet!

WHAT'S NEW?! (Other than 2011, that is!) A new weekly rehearsal time for the Teen Choir, that's

what! Teen Choir is open to all youth in grades 6 through 12. Beginning Wednesday, January 5, we will meet every week, from 8:15 - 8:45 p.m. in the sanctuary.

Music and Worship Notes

Help Wanted: Early Childhood Coordinator Bethel Lutheran Church is seeking applicants for the position of Early Childhood Coordinator. Candidates should be self motivated, independent workers, with knowledge and skill in the areas of early childhood ministry, and people and detail management. Duties involve: Coordinating the early childhood ministries of the church and hiring and scheduling paid and volunteer nursery staff. Hours: 7-10 per week. Contact the church office at 786-6674 to apply or for more information. Deadline for application - January 7.

The second of three Senior Stepping Stones Retreats will be held from noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 23. Please join us for this time of conversation and preparation for graduation. We’ll look back at the beginning of this important year and ahead at what you’ll want to be sure to include in the rest of your year. Lunch will be provided. Remember that your senior quilt squares are to be turned in if you missed the January 9th deadline. If you have not been able to complete them, you will be able to do so after your squares have been stitched together. Parents who are able to stay after the retreat will meet to start planning the assembly of the quilts.

Barb Hanson Youth Center or call or email Barb. Parents, if you’re available to help with this event, please contact Barb Farmer. MS/HS Ski Trip ~ Information about this year’s winter ski trip for middle and high school youth has been sent to all Bethel families. This year’s trip is a day ski trip to Welch Village on Saturday, January 15th (no school Monday!), that will be open to all youth from Bethel and other Northfield churches. We’ll leave at 2:30 p.m. and ski into the evening, returning at 11 p.m. Parents are welcome to come along on this trip as well. Consent forms and ski rental forms were included with the informational letter; those forms and your registration are due to Barb Farmer on Wednesday, January 12th, if you are interested in the trip. Join us for some winter fun! Hi League will meet at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays, January 12 and 26, this month.

The Youth Fundraising Team will meet in the Fireside Room at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 4. Confirmation classes will resume Wednesday, January 5, at 7 p.m. for all 7th through 9th grade youth and small group leaders. 6th Grade Connections will meet at 7 p.m. in the Barb Hanson Youth Center on Wednesdays, January 5 and 19, this month. A parent planning team meeting will take place both evenings in room #61A at 6:30 p.m. Sunday School classes resume at 9:45 a.m. on Sunday, January 9. The second of three 6th Grade Lord’s Prayer retreats will take place in the Barb Hanson Youth Center on Sunday, January 9, from noon to 3:30 p.m. All 6th grade youth are invited. Please sign up at the information station in the

Page 6 The Bethel Banner

Bethel Youth News

Barb Farmer, Director of Youth Ministries

786-8877 bfarmer@bethelnorthfield.com

Yesterday I listened to the Bethel Teen Choir sing during the choir festival Sunday. They sang a song about waiting – which is much of our focus during Advent. The song our teens sang included these lines: Waiting for the promise, looking for the light. Joy will shine upon us while banishing the night. Waiting for the coming, hoping for the day, Love will walk beside us, showing us the way. Waiting for the promise, joyful news to tell. God will soon be with us. Come, Emmanuel. Emmanuel, God with us. It’s not usually hard to feel God’s presence during the Christmas season. It’s

what we celebrate – God’s coming to us in the form of a baby. But it’s often harder to feel God’s presence in the middle of the “bleak midwinter”, when the celebrations are over. What we forget is that God is always present in our lives. It’s we who tend to overlook just how near God is. A story that illustrates this is the legend of a Cherokee youth. As a rite of passage, his father takes him into the forest, blindfolds him, and leaves him alone on a stump for the whole night. When morning comes, he is allowed to

Breathe Easy By Barb Farmer

Calling all middle and high school youth! Get ready to say "Y.E.S." to

fun service projects throughout the school year. The Y.E.S. team wants your involvement to help organize or participate in several opportunities to help others in our community and beyond. Here's what the team has planned for the new year… January 23 - Pizza, Planning & Projects: We need all middle school and high school youth who are interested in learning more about the two big upcoming

Just Say Y.E.S. … (That's Youth Energized to Serve)

Yes, continued on Page 9 Breathe, continued on Page 9

should have received a mailing in mid-December regarding this information. If you did not, please contact the church office immediately.

Third Grade Prayer Class ~ Third grade families, mark your calendars now. Beginning on Sunday, February 20, and running through Sunday, March 20, all third graders and their parents will be gathering for a special Sunday School class on prayer, led by Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries. Watch your mail at the end of this month for details.

Baptismal Remembrance Sunday ~ On Sunday, January 9, we will be observing the baptism of

Jesus by remembering the baptism of our youngest members. At both services our children who have been baptized but are not yet of Sunday School age will be gathered around the altar with parents and baptismal sponsors (if available) as we remember the promises made at the time of their baptism. Families of these children

Mark Your Calendars with the 2010-11 Retreat Dates: Sunday, March 20 - Grade 4 Holy Worship Retreat – Noon-5 Sunday, April 10 - Grade 3 Holy Baptism Retreat – Noon-5

January 2011 Page 7

mission projects throughout the year, their participation in worship and the life of the congregation, acolyte duties, the projects they support during our BAM Super Service Wednesdays... We ended our session with the students creating a gift of love to give to someone over Christmas. It was a simple card that read “I love you because…”

Many of us and/or our loved ones are in the midst of difficult times – the economy, the war, health issues, relationship difficulties, etc. The one gift that we are all capable of giving is love. And it doesn’t cost a dime!

In our last Sunday School session of 2010 for our Grade 2-5 students we talked about gifts. There was a lot of excitement and conversation around the gifts we receive at Christmas but then we began to talk about the gifts the children receive from Bethel – BAM and Sunday School ministries, a wonderful building in which to gather, worship services, music, prayer, time with friends, Bibles. The list went on and on.

We also talked about the gifts our children give to Bethel – their presence in the life of our congregation, the offerings they bring to support our

January is the season of Epiphany, when we remember the wisemen who followed the light of the star to visit the son of God to bring him gifts. In these dark days of January and in this season of Epiphany let the light of your love be a gift to everyone you meet.

Talk with your family about how each of you can be a light of love to others. Share with each other at the end of the day how each person felt the light of love from someone else and how they shared their love light with another.

You are the light of the world. Matthew 5:14

Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries

786-8878 pvig@bethelnorhtfield.com

Children’s Ministry Update

Church and Home Ministry ~ Partners in Faith By Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries

Smile, You're On Candid… NTV! Bethel's Sunday worship services are broadcast on NTV (Northfield’s public access cable station) on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. Bethel family and friends who are hospitalized at Northfield Hospital can view the worship services on channel 14 on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m., Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday mornings at 10 a.m.

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Highlights of the November Church Council Meeting The Trustee reported the following: • The roof has been completed over the trash

area. • There has been some touch-up painting done

as well as fresh paint in the chapel. • The monitors are up in the sanctuary. • They have been doing tree watering before it

freezes. The Treasurer reported the following: • Giving is up 3.9% over last year. • They will be working with the Stewardship

Committee to close the current gap of $32,000 in expenses over income.

• The refinance is complete and the old loan is paid off. The new loan has been paid down to $2.6 million with a rate of 4.875%. The payments are down from $28,000 to $16,000.

The Steward reported the following: • The Thanksgiving letter has been sent to the

congregation and proceeds will go to help eradicate malaria.

• The fall campaign is underway with temple talks by three staff members. The theme is “It is our duty and delight”. Brunches are on November 14 and 21.

At-Large Member with Visual Arts reported that they are looking at designing a new baptismal font and a Bethel member is willing to do the design work free of charge. It will cost between $1,000 and $1,200. Council authorized this expenditure. The ELCA and SE MN Synod have made a request that congregations that are doing okay financially increase their support to the synod in the coming year. This will be discussed at the budget meeting.

Transitions. Change. No matter who we are, like it or not, we all go through it. From a simple change like

writing the New Year “2011” to having spent the holiday season missing a loved one, change is all around us. Like you, our Befriender ministry is experiencing a transition too. One of Bethel Befriender’s organizing members, Ellen Nelson, recently left the Bethel community to retire in northern Minnesota and Arizona. Long time coordinator, Karen Mader, who has worked tirelessly in this ministry

Befrienders By Marci Groenewold

January: No regular Tuesday night meeting.

Befriender Calendar at a Glance

and has faithfully written our monthly Banner articles, is taking a well-deserved break from her coordinator role. We are happy to welcome Jean Miller to the Bethel Befriender Coordinator team joining Knight Stanley and Marci Groenewold. We are thankful for all the support Ellen and Karen have given this unique ministry. With Jean’s help we will continue to provide the Bethel community with the pastoral care of Befriender ministers.

Blessings from Bethel's Befrienders †

Caring, not curing: Bethel Befrienders. For more information, call Marci Groenewold, (645-6257), Knight Stanley (645-2512), Jean Miller (645-5353), or the Bethel office (786-6674).

January 2011 Page 9

Sunday, January 16: “Befriending through Change” open discussion, 9:45 a.m. in Bethel’s Classroom 34A

February 25-27: New Befriender Minister Training at Bethel

remove the blindfold. Once he survives the night, he is declared a man. The story tells of the boy’s terror as he endures the night sounds around him. His imagination runs wild as he thinks of all the wild animals and other dangers surrounding him. But he stoically remains on the stump.

Finally, after a terrifying night, the boy removed his blindfold. And that was when he discovered that his father was sitting on the stump beside him. He had been there the entire night, protecting his son from harm.

We are much like that boy. We forget that we are never alone. Our Father is with us always, watching over us. As we begin this new year, may we be reminded of the words we sang such a short time ago and breathe easier. Come, Emmanuel.

Breathe, continued from page 6.

service projects that we will be helping with: the March Food Drive and Relay for Life. Come to the Youth Room after the second service on January 23 and join in the fun and food as you learn about how you can take part in these two great service opportunities. There will also be a service opportunity to help with that day after the pizza is done! Come join us by saying "YES" to pizza, planning, and projects! Watch for more details in the Scoop.

Yes, continued from page 6. Sundays, now through May: We need more families to sign up to deliver Meals on Wheels, for the blue Route, each Sunday after the second service. Help take part in this easy, fun, and helpful service. It takes about 45 minutes and all homes you deliver to are very close to Bethel. Get signed up in the Youth Room or visit our web sign-up at: http://www.volunteerspot.com/login/entry/732345631841830094.

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Page 10 The Bethel Banner

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Mark Your Calendars May 20-21, 2011 ~ Annual Bethel Garage Sale September 22-25, 2011 ~ Bethel Backpacking Trip

January 2011 Page 11

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Page 12 The Bethel Banner

Living Faith

stay overnight; however, the majority will come Friday evening for dinner and opening of the retreat, then will drive home to sleep and return the next morning for breakfast and the Saturday program. The cost is very reasonable: $66 if you attend the retreat but not overnight, or $95 which includes overnight accommodations.

Perhaps it is time for you to wait a minute, and take time to renew and deepen your relationship with God. I can’t think of a better way to begin the New Year.

For more information, please pick up a brochure on the information table in the narthex or contact Pam Santerre at 786-8951. Act soon, as registration ends on January 4.

It seems like I’m always in a “wait a minute, let me catch up” mode…with the news, my family, friends and neighbors, technology, household

chores, work responsibilities—life in general! But there are those times when wait a minute means slowing down, stopping, taking a deep breath, just Being.

That is why I am so looking forward to the Bethel adult winter retreat on Jan. 14-15, at the Mount Olivet Retreat Center in Farmington, MN. For me, going on retreat is a time to slow down and minimize distractions, so I can listen to my own inner voice as well as the voice of the Holy Spirit, reminding me of who I am and whose I am. The program for this retreat is titled “Wait a Minute”. Barb Holm, retreat leader, Spiritual Director, and Bethel member, has been preparing for this weekend’s journey for the last few months. She assures us that ‘during this retreat you will be giving yourself a “time-out” to renew and deepen your spiritual life. There is no better way of doing that then spending time with scripture that envelops one in Jesus’ words and presence. You will experience Jesus’ Love, Reassurance, Forgiveness, and His Encouragement to share love with others. You will leave with renewed energy for your busy everyday living.’

The Mount Olivet Retreat Center is a modern facility, nestled on 150 acres of rolling prairies and woodlands which offers plenty of trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing. There is an indoor swimming pool and hot tub, delicious meals served in an inviting dining room and clean, motel style rooms for overnight guests, complete with private baths. A few Bethel members on this retreat will choose to

Pam Santerre, Pastoral Minister

786-8951 pastoralminister@-

charterinternet.com

attempt to silence Jesus and his message of God’s remarkable, revolutionary mercy, even to the point of crucifixion. If so, then that is all the more reason to enter into the commotion and clutter, to let go of your inhibitions, to join the angels in singing and the shepherds in exulting with unashamed joy: Jesus, the Savior is born! "Listen! Your sentinels lift up their voices, together they sing for joy." "See, your salvation comes." ― Isaiah 52:8; 62:11

The Rev. Mark S. Hanson Presiding Bishop

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation! ― Isaiah 52:7 When Jesus was born, angelic messengers broke the still calm of a Judean night to sing joyously and proclaim, “This very day in David’s city a Savior is born for you — God’s Promised One, your Lord.” Glad tidings of great joy! Common shepherds were the first and heartiest heralds of the promised Savior’s arrival then, and today the joy in Jesus’ birth fills every corner of this season. Admittedly sometimes in modern America the commercial clatter and cultural clutter of the season seem to overtake the angels’ song and the shepherds’ joyous news. But such a majestic message of God’s salvation cannot be silenced. Some loudly lament that the world will not listen to the Gospel message, but in this season so many beckon, “Christians, sing with us. Bring your songs of Christmas, of Jesus.” A few may shush you, just as there were those who would later

Bishop’s Christmas Message

January 2011 Page 13

Mondays ♦ 7-8 p.m. - WELCA

Bible Study (first Monday of each month), Fireside Room

Thursdays ♦ 8-9 a.m. - Bethel Women’s Study,

Ole Cafe ♦ 8:30-9:30 a.m. - Men of Bethel -

Classrooms 61A & B

Saturdays ♦ 8:30-9:45 a.m. - No Experience

Necessary Bible Study, Barb Hanson Youth Room

Sundays 9:45-10:30 a.m. ♦ Mathetes, Fireside Room Monthly and Semi-Monthly Groups ♦ Membership Matters, a course for

prospective members, offered on February 20, and April 17, noon, in the CLC

♦ STARS events ♦ Mission & Justice Forums ♦ Adult Retreats ♦ Monthly WELCA circles open to all

women. If you are interested in joining a circle, please contact the church office.

Adult Education

There's more information about these groups on page 15.

Any and all of these adult education groups may be joined at any time. Watch the Weekly Banner for information about additions and changes.

Wait a Minute (A Retreat in Time)

Adult Winter Retreat for Bethel Adults

Friday January 14, 6 p.m. through Saturday, January 15, 6 p.m.

Mt. Olivet Retreat Center

Step out of Life's rapid pace and push the pause button. Dwell awhile in Jesus’ love, assurance and peace.

Become refreshed through fellowship, scripture, worship, prayer and fun. Join us for the Bethel Adult Retreat in the lovely setting of Mt. Olivet Retreat Center. A Retreat in Time is sure to revive the weary soul.

During this retreat you will be giving yourself a “time-out” to renew and deepen your spiritual life. There is no better way of doing that then spending time with scripture that envelops one in Jesus’ words and presence. You will experience Jesus Love, Reassurance, Forgiveness, and His Encouragement to share love with others. You will leave with renewed energy for your busy everyday living. Our guest speaker will be Barb Holm. Barb is a spiritual director and a retired school counselor. She is an experienced presenter and group facilitator.

$95 per person if staying overnight (double occupancy) space is limited. $66 to attend the event but not overnight. Day and overnight costs include Friday dinner, Saturday breakfast & lunch, snacks and use of facilities.

Please complete and return the registration form to the church office or pick up a brochures on the information table in the narthex. Contact Pam for more information at 786-8951.

Please register by January 4, 2011.

Winter Retreat Registration

Name(s): ______________________________________________

Phone: _______________ Email: _________________________

Overnight - $95 x ______ (no. of participants) = _________ (total)

Day Attender - $66 x _____ (no. of participants) = ________ (total)

Please turn this form into the church office by January 4.

Tuesday or Wednesday, March 15 or 16, Children’s Theatre

Tuesday, May 17, Watkins Museum, Winona Tuesday, June 15, Vasa Lutheran Church Tour Tuesday, July 19, Lake City Boat Trip

Tuesday, August 16, Potluck at Lu Lindstrom’s home

All Bethel women are invited to join in the fun with this traveling monthly fellowship group! Most trips leave in a carpool from the Bethel parking lot at 9:30 a.m. Watch the weekly Banner for updates and details. Tuesday, January 18, St. Olaf King's Room for lunch Tuesday, February 15, “Enjoy!” in Apple Valley

Bethel Women Having Fun

The Bethel Banner Page 14

One of the areas where Lutherans have worked together very effectively is in providing human services for people in need. We read this and think first of times of disaster and, indeed, services are provided then. Less publicized are services such orphanages and homes for the elderly, people with mental illness or chemical dependency. We should be proud of all that we, through our offerings that are partially sent to our national church treasury, are doing to help others. Lois Stratmoen, Bethel Mission Interpreter Lutheran Services in America

The story of Lutheran Services in America, the collective name of Lutheran social ministry, is the story of God's love poured out for God's people. And God's people, with overflowing gratitude, love their brothers and sisters in the human community -- next door and across the globe. Lutherans have directed that impulse to love the neighbor through individual and collective action for many generations. In the last half of the 19th century, in many rural towns and in many cities, Lutherans gathered their resolve and resources to begin orphanages and “family-finding” agencies to care for children left parentless by a variety of circumstances. Today, many of these Lutheran orphanages have grown into large organizations that meet a broad range of needs for children and their families. Each Lutheran social ministry organization can tell stories of faithful people, who, motivated by Christ's love, directed that care to others or advocated against injustice, especially when finding a place to care for aging people in a rural community or for opportunities for those marginalized by city life.

From Our Mission Interpreter... By Lois Stratmoen

Today congregations in urban neighborhoods create community for people struggling with mental illness, chemical dependency, and transition from prison. New missions mobilize the resources of neighborhoods to care for the lives of kids at risk. In suburbs and small towns, people of faith band together to ensure access to safe and affordable housing and services for people with disabilities. Congregations and social ministry organizations in rural areas join forces to provide healthcare, transportation, and core services for people as they age. People come together to advocate, to organize, to serve. This story of Lutherans working in the world is a clear witness to the Gospel. There are more than 300 independent Lutheran health and human service organizations in thousands of communities all across the country and the Caribbean. The employees and volunteers in these organizations treat acute and chronic illnesses of body and mind, provide care for the whole person in need, and strengthen and empower individuals and families to

care for themselves, for one another, and for their communities. Last year services were provided to nearly six million people -- or one in 50 Americans. The aggregated budgets of these organizations totaled over $16.6 billion dollars. Through Lutheran Services in America, an alliance of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod and their related health and human service organizations, LSA strengthens its members' ministries and Lutheran identity, facilitates work that is best done together rather than as individual organizations, trains board and staff leaders, connects social ministry organizations to one another and with partners of many types, and stimulates collective action through advocacy and programs. For more information see www.lutheranservices.org

Submitted by Shirley Gangstad, SE MN Synod ELCA

January 2011 Page 15

Adult Ed Opportunities Adult Ed Opportunities during the Weekduring the Week

The Mission and Justice Committee is continuing their immigration theme by presenting a three-week film series featuring films centered on the topic of immigration. The series will be held Wednesdays, January 12-26 from 4 p.m.-5:30 p.m. in Room 62. Come and join us for some thought- provoking films and interesting discussion! Bethel Women’s Study, Thursdays, 8-9 a.m., Ole Café. Women of Bethel meet each Thursday from 8 to 9 a.m. at the Ole Café in Northfield for great coffee and rich conversation. We will begin a new book on January 13. Please watch the weekly Banner for more information. For more

information, contact Pam Santerre at 786-8951. Men of Bethel (MOB), Thursdays, 8:30 – 9:30 a.m., Bethel classrooms 61A & B. Men of Bethel has resumed the study of Romans which started last spring, with Pastor Duane Everson leading the discussions. New participants are always welcome.

Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (WELCA) Bible Study - The 2010-2011 Bible study is “The People of God: Unity in the Midst of Diversity” by the Revs. Linda Johnson Seyenkulo and D. Jensen Seyenkulo. Barb Holm will be leading a monthly study for WELCA circle leaders AND anyone else who is interested. They will meet most months on the first Monday of each month from 7–8 p.m. in the Fireside Room. Please contact Barb at 507-301-8184 if you plan to attend and need the study materials.

Bethel is committed to building and equipping disciples for Christ and His Kingdom through our Adult Education offerings. We encourage every adult in our Bethel community to engage in learning by participating in the forums, classes, and retreats that are offered this year. Please consider the following opportunities in adult education, and check the weekly and monthly Banners and www.bethelnorthfield.org for updates throughout the year.

For all Adults on Sunday For all Adults on Sunday MorningsMornings

Adult Ed Classes

Mathetes with Pastor Tim, 9:45-10:30 a.m., Fireside Room. In November, Mathetes began a study of discipleship according to Matthew. Membership Matters – February 20 and April 17, 2011 – 12 to 1:30 p.m. If you are a Bethel visitor who is thinking about joining Bethel, you are invited to join the Bethel staff on one of the above dates for a casual pizza lunch and an informative gathering about Bethel congregation, its mission and ministries, and our hopes and dreams for the future. While not required, MM may help you decide if Bethel is the right congregation for you! Nursery care will be provided. Winter 2011 Adult Faith Forums Sunday mornings, 9:45 – 10:30 a.m., in the sanctuary. Watch the weekly Banner for more upcoming events. January 9: Rice County Habitat for Humanity director Dana Clement January 16 and 23: Eating like you care about yourself and others

Adult Education Offerings Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (WELCA) Circles - Women gather together in their WELCA Circles monthly for Bible study, prayer, and fellowship. They are open to all women; Bethel has several to fit any schedule. If you are interested in joining a circle, or would like to begin a new group, please contact Marcia Omdahl at 664-9052.

Workshops, Retreats, Workshops, Retreats, Events, Support Groups Events, Support Groups

For All Bethel Adults

Adult Winter Retreat, Friday evening, January 14 through Saturday afternoon, January 15, 2011 at the Mt. Olivet Retreat Center. See page 13 for details. Bethel Seniors Together At Retirements (STARS) Quarterly events for 2010-11: The Music of Martin Luther with Randall Fergeson, Thursday, March 17, 12–2 p.m. at Bethel - Bethel STARS will enjoy a delicious lunch, followed by an engaging program by Randall Fergeson, music teacher and professional musician. The Music of Martin Luther combines live performance on renaissance lute with a discussion of the music and hymnody of the reformation that later, came to be known as the Lutheran Choral Tradition. Memorial Day Remembrance, Thursday, May 26, 12 – 2 p.m. at Bethel - Watch for more information about this luncheon and program.

The Bethel Banner Page 16

January Worship Servants

January 2 January 9 January 16 January 23

Assisting Minister (8:30 a.m.)

Carol Lysne Mike Ahrens Mike Ahrens Noel Stratmoen

Assisting Minister (10:45 a.m.)

Libby Glimsdal Mike Ahrens Candy Nordine Knight Stanley

Reader (8:30 a.m.) Doug Casson Carol Lysne Bethel Youth Jerry Williams

Reader (10:45 a.m.) Joel Leer Carol Cole Bethel Youth Brad Prestemon

Sacramental Ministers (8:30 a.m.)

Mike & Sandy Ahrens, Wendell Arneson & Beth Christensen, Kitty Runzheimer

Carol Cole, Roberta Ganske, Connie DeGrote, Sandy Ahrens, Rose Turnacliff

Bethel Youth Abbie Meierbachtol, Bob & Thora Phelps, Don Kloster, Marcia Omdahl

Sacramental Ministers (10:45 a.m.)

Jean Mueller, Dan Foley, Pam Vig, Marci Groenewold, Sandra Germundson

Cindy Kreis, Don Kloster, Kristi Huettl, Rosemarie Lewis, Barb Neitzel

Bethel Youth Roger & Vikki VanVeldhuizen, Rosemarie Lewis, Sandra Germundson, Pam Vig

Acolytes (8:30 a.m.) Linnea Larson, Will Schuerman

Anders Johnson, Liv Sorenson

Grace Carlson, Danielle Haines

Linnea Larson, Will Schuerman

Acolytes (10:45 a.m.) Isabel Aylin, Andrew Baumgartner

Dawson Foster, Nora Puppe

Olivia Sharp, Garret Sawyer

Karissa Ricks, Gabriella Vargas

Ushers (8:30 a.m.) Roberta & Gene Ganske, Ellis Lysne, Bob Vanderhoof

Marilyn & Gordon Kelley, Mac Gimse, Juley Jenkinson

Bethel Youth Steve Meierbachtol, Kyle Nordine, Jim Moberg, Jamie Waters

Ushers (10:45 a.m.) Chad & Juley Jenkinson, Marv Farmer, Jim Hammer

Tony Huettl, Tim & Lori Freeland, Gary Hanson

Bethel Youth Steve & Carol O’Neill, Barb & Tadd Henwood

Greeters (8:30 a.m.) Ken Larson, Carol Cole

Connie & Gary DeGrote

Sandy Reiman, Wanda Larsen

Merry & Gerry Hoekstra

Greeters (10:45 a.m.) Henry Mueller, Charles Hayes

Jim & Caroline Holden

Jim & Caroline Holden

Deb & Dave Peters

Nametags (8:30 a.m.) Thora & Bob Phelps Elaine Deim, Ed Durand

Gordon & Marilyn Kelley

Donna & Kevin Halverson

Nametags (10:45 a.m.) Ken Larson, Jean Mueller

Gary & Connie DeGrote

Jean & Henry Mueller Leah & Charlie Radman

Coffee Servers Jennie Moberg, Connie & Gary DeGrote, Ken & Phyllis Larson, Marilyn & Gordon Kelley, Charles & Tammy Hayes

Donna & Kevin Halverson, Cheryl & Bruce Dueffert, Tim & Wanda Larsen, Sandy Reiman, Dave & Deb Peters

Ed Durand, Merry & Gerry Hoekstra, Elaine Deim, Leah & Charlie Radman, Carol Cole

Laura & Mike Domish, Cindy & Jeff Kreis, Jim & Caroline Holden, Alyce Kivell

January 30

Eric Lundin

Joel Leer

Barb Holm

Kristi Huettl

Rose Turnacliff, Mike & Sandy Ahrens, Bob & Thora Phelps

Barb Henwood, Marci Groenewold, Kristi Huettl, Deb Peters, Pam Vig

Spencer Luecke, Liv Sorenson

Garrett Sawyer, Dan Nelson

Char and David Jacobsen, Roger Glasgow, Dale Turnacliff

Chad & Juley Jenkinson, Nancy & Rolynn Ensrud

Bob & Thora Phelps

Elaine Deim

Jennie Moberg, Sandy Reiman

Tim & Wanda Larsen

Jean & Henry Mueller, Rosann & Tom Brawley, Kathy & Mike Glampe, Joe & Daina Meillier, Jeff & Cindy Kreis

The Bethel Banner The Bethel Banner Page 16

January 2011 Page 17

A Measure of Our Commitment December Worship Attendance average per Sunday

2007 2008 2009 2010

529 557 605 541

Average Year-to-date Worship Attendance

2007 2008 2009 2010

460 490 494 480

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 20th of each month. Questions, suggestions, or comments? Contact editor Lisa McDermott at lmcdermott@bethelnorthfield.com, by phone at 645-0740, or call the church office at 786-6674.

January 2011 January 2011

January 2 January 9 January 16 January 23

Altar Care Lu Lindstrom Mike & Sandy Ahrens Mike & Mary Graff Dot & Vic Swanson

Communion Angels

Alice Dale, Arlene Neil Roberta and Gene Ganske, Larry & Avis Petterson

Carol Cole Elaine Deim, Dick and Orpah Johnson

A/V Room (8:30 a.m.)

Seth Hanson Patrick Walker

Jordan Ett Tucker Meillier

Steve Carson Liam Fisher

Neil Barck Nathan Dahlen

A/V Room (10:45 a.m.)

Neil Barck Ben Coleman

Seth Hanson Perry Tetreault

Jordan Ett David Kreis

Patrick Walker Mark Lewis

Service Group Chairperson:

January 30

Alyce Kivell

Juley Jenkinson

Perry Tetreault Patrick Walker

Neil Barck Liam Fisher

Page 17

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The Bethel Banner Page 18

One of the helpful pieces of feedback we received in the Banner surveys we received, was a request for fewer acronyms. It's easy to assume that everyone knows what our shorthand language means! While we will try to use fewer acronyms without explanation, here is a short list of those most frequently used, and what they mean: ACTS = Adult Christians Together Socially, a small-group dinner ministry for adult Bethel members and a darn good way to get to know each other in a fun way! To join up, call Mary Nystuen at 645-4011. BAM = Bible, Arts and Music, our Wednesday afternoon programming for children. For more information, call Pam Vig at 786-8878. BWHF = Bethel Women Having Fun, a fellowship group open to all women of Bethel that takes monthly field trips to restaurants, museums and other places of interest. For more information, contact Lu Lindstrom.

A Bethel Glossary

CLC = Christian Life Center, our beautiful fellowship space west of the sanctuary. ELCA = Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, our denomination. ISLA = Interfaith Services to Latin America, a partner organization serving the educational and medical needs of the people of Jalapa, Nicaragua. LIRS = Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service, a partner organization serving our newest neighbors. LPGM = Lutheran Partners in a Global Mission, a partner organization serving the educational and medical needs of the people of India and Africa. MOB = Men of Bethel, a weekly Bible study for all Bethel men that meets on Thursday mornings. All men are welcome to join at any time.

STARS = Seniors Together At Retirement, a fellowship group of Bethel members in the 60+ age group. All seniors are welcome to attend luncheons and retreats. For more information, contact Pam Santerre, 786-8651. WELCA = Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church, a service, Bible study, and fellowship group open to all Bethel women. There are circles, small groups that meet monthly for Bible study and fellowship. There are service opportunities, including the annual Doing Meeting and the annual garage sale. All women are welcome to join in any time. For more information, contact Marcia Omdahl, Bethel WELCA president. YES = Youth Energized to Serve, a service group for our middle school and high school kids. For more information, contact Cindy Kreis, 663-1941. Know of another acronym that should be included? Contact Lisa McDermott, 645-0740.

Enjoy the convenience of electronic giving Bethel Lutheran Church offers electronic giving, which allows you to make donations on a scheduled, automatic basis. If you are writing checks and preparing envelopes every week, you will especially appreciate electronic giving. It is convenient for you and provides much-needed donation consistency for Bethel. Simply Giving can be used for your regular faith-based giving and/or building fund pledge. How to get started

To set up electronic donations, simply complete the authorization form which can be found on Bethel’s website (bethelnorthfield.org), and 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 Gloria West. If you have any questions, please contact Gloria at 786-6687 or gwest@bethelnorthfield.com.

January 2011 Page 19

Thank you to the Bethel kitchen crew who prepared and served the meal following my dad's funeral. And special thanks to Pastor Tim, Pastor Charlie and all Bethel members for your thoughts and prayers.

Todd, Carrie & Andy Carroll

My sincere thanks to Pastor Tim, Pastor Charlie, and Pam Santerre for your visits and prayers while I recuperated from hip surgery. Also, your wonderful cards from my Bethel friends were appreciated so much. I go through them again and again appreciating your kind messages and prayers. The prayers that were said for me in church were answered. I have no pain now after so many months. My husband, Tom, and my four sons and their families thank you for your prayers given each Sunday. God is good.

Janet Pritchard

I would like to thank everyone for their calls, cards, thoughts, and prayers, during my recent surgery. It was all extremely helpful and appreciated.

Rod Miller

Thank you for your very generous contribution of $1109.63 to the Community Action Center of Northfield , of which $825 is designated for general support and $284.63 for food shelf. Your financial support is essential to our operations — it gives us the ability to meet the costs of providing critical services to our Northfield neighbors. And, it lets us look forward creatively at the work that is ahead of us to help people bridge out of poverty to prosperity. This is the work that needs to continue, as challenging as it is! With partnership like yours and the creativity of a whole

We have so much to be thankful for...

community, I am confident we can make it happen. The CAC Board of Directors and I are grateful for your thoughtfulness and support. Thanks again!

Jim Blaha, NCAC Thank you for your continued support for the ISLA programs in Nicaragua with your $625 contribution. With each trip we strengthen our relationship with the people of Jalapa and provide needed services. Your contributions make all this work possible. Together we are working to improve the lives and provide opportunities to the people of Jalapa. On behalf of ISLA and the Jalapa community, thank you!

Jon Kerr, ISLA Thank you for your generous gift to the general fund of Lutheran Partners in Global Ministry [$500]. Gifts like yours allow us to respond to new opportunities quickly and efficiently. We hope you will remember Lutheran Partners in Global Ministry in the future when giving opportunities arise. In the meantime, please pray for all of our ministry partners, both international and domestic, and the many people God reaches through their work. God's blessing to you as together we work to carry out the great commission Jesus gave us: Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations - Matthew 28:19.

Mark Warpmaeker, LPGM Thank you for your congregation's commitment to welcome migrants and refugees! Together, we can create a culture of hospitality in our congregations and communities so that newcomers find spaces of hospitality where their needs are met, their voices are celebrated, and their hope is restored. Your generous donation of $750 goes to serve our charge to bring

welcome to the stranger. As we have for 71 years, Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service creates avenues through which newcomers enter communities: we resettle refugees; we protect unaccompanied migrant children; we defend torture survivors held in detention; and we fight for fair and humane legislative change. From these years of experience we know that migrants and refugees we serve need more than access to American shores. To thrive, they must be met with innovative, holistic, and systemic approaches that actively welcome, where the needs of the complete person are recognized, named, and attended. They must be met by congregations and communities that witness to God's love for all people. Thank you for remembering with us the many migrants and refugees who thirst for justice. Together, we can transform our communities so that all migrants and refugees are welcomed, protected, and embraced. Thank you for your congregation’s support of our ministry without which it would not be possible. It was a special joy to worship with you and I am so grateful for your hospitality and support. Christmas Blessings!

Linda Hartke, LIRS

X 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!

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...........tmcdermott@bethelnorthfield.com Charlie Ruud, Associate Pastor..........................................786-6674...........cruud@bethelnorthfield.com Barb Farmer, Director of Youth Ministries .....................786-8877...........bfarmer@bethelnorthfield.com Rhonda Reece, Director of Music and Worship.............786-8874...........bethelmusic@gmail.com Sandy Haines, Office Administrator .................................786-6674...........shaines@bethelnorthfield.com Pam Santerre, Pastoral Minister.........................................786-8951...........psanterre@bethelnorthfield.com Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries .....................786-8878...........pvig@bethelnorthfield.com Gloria West, Church Accountant ......................................786-6687...........gwest@bethelnorthfield.com Paula Mathison, Secretary/Receptionist...........................786-6674...........pmathison@bethelnorthfield.com Mike Graff, Custodian.........................................................786-6674...........shaines@bethelnorthfield.com Ken Hu, Janitor ....................................................................786-6674...........shaines@bethelnorthfield.com Dan Kallman, Adult Choir Director .................................786-6674...........shaines@bethelnorthfield.com Jill Mahr, Youth Handbell Director ..................................786-6674...........shaines@bethelnorthfield.com Elizabeth Shepley, Children’s Choir Director .................786-6674...........shaines@bethelnorthfield.com Stacy Waters, Nursery Coordinator...................................786-6674...........stacywilliamswaters@gmail.com Bethel Banner submissions................................................. ...........................lmcdermott@bethelnorthfield.com

Bethel Lutheran Church 1321 North Avenue Northfield, MN 55057 ● ● ● Phone: 507-786-6674 Web: www.bethelnorthfield.org

www.facebook.com/bethellutheran Email: shaines@bethelnorthfield.com ● ● ● Address Service Requested

Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage Paid Northfield, MN

55057 Permit No. 138

Note new email addresses!