Pastor’s Word

A t our Annual Meeting on January 30, Bethlehem voted to

consolidate with Minnetonka Lutheran Church. At the Minnetonka Annual Meeting the next day, Minnetonka ratified their decision to consolidate with us. Both of these votes were by overwhelming majorities, 94% and 90% respectively. Our communities are excited about the possibilities that consolidation brings, particularly in terms of the vision we have to “connect people with God, each other and their mission in the world.”

The fact that God was engaged in this whole process was abundantly clear. For two churches to choose to become one church with two campuses means we are more willing to work together, for the sake of the Gospel, than we are to holding onto our respective identities. That was particularly true for Minnetonka Lutheran: they have called the entire Bethlehem staff to be their staff; they have chosen to become part of this new church with new leadership and new direction. I have the utmost respect and admiration for Pastor Bob Rusert, and the Council members and leadership from Minnetonka, as they helped guide the difficult process of making that decision.

Together, we now face the task of integration—of actually becoming one church. We are already working hard on not using “we /they” language. And let me tell you, that’s harder than you might think! Both

Pastor’s Word continued on Page 2…

Bethlehem Lutheran Church VOL. 72 •Number 3 MARCH, 2016

“Not one stone will be left here upon another; all will be thrown down.” The self-centered disciples ask who will be the greatest, what’s in it for them. The fickle crowds are amazed by the miraculous, but wonder when Jesus’ words become challenging. Are we any different? We say we are willing to follow Jesus, but how far are we willing to go? Will we give our money, our time, our lives? We think we want to follow, but...to what end?

Guest Choirs Lead Worship on Wednesdays in Lent Dinner served 5:30-6:30 pm in Iverson Hall March 2 — Partners in Praise Girls Choir March 9—Minnehaha Academy Singers March 16—Minnesota Boychoir

Gather for worship at 7:00 pm on Wednesdays in March. Sing the much loved Holden Evening Prayer liturgy. Come early for Making Sense of the Cross at 6:00-6:45 pm in Langemo. Through video teaching by Dr. David Lose and class discussion, we’ll explore questions like: What does the cross really mean? Why would God choose this end to accomplish his purposes? Read about the Lent art project on Page 7.

March 20—Palm Sunday—Worship at 8:00, 9:00, 10:15, 11:30 and 5:00 pm Cinnamon rolls & gourmet coffee all morning in the Gallery

March 24—Maundy Thursday, Noon & 7:00 pm Service of Holy Communion

Celebration of First Communion at 7:00 pm

March 25—Good Friday, Noon & 7:00 pm 9:30-11:00 am Good Friday for Kids (ages 2-Kindergarten)

March 27—EASTER Festival Worship at 6:00, 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 & Noon

with Holy Communion, Choirs and Brass (nursery available 8:30 am-1:15 pm)

5:00 pm Easter Evening Service of Holy Communion

LENT 2016

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Your Giving Makes a Difference by Bob Wertz, Pastor of Stewardship and Planned Giving

B ethlehem staff are men and women who display their leadership in all kinds of ways, which makes coming to work each day an opportunity to

be grateful for the common work we share. All staff are asked to sign a covenant that articulates fifteen expectations we value for working together effectively. Treat all members and staff with respect and understanding, Promote the witness and mission of Bethlehem, Maintain a spirit of unity, Practice and promote the concept of stewardship. Walking the talk of stewardship is a core value at Bethlehem, encouraged widely and deeply within the ranks of all staff and members. I recently asked Steph Smith, Director of Faith Integration, about her own stewardship journey.

Who has had the greatest positive influence on your own giving journey?

I have my parents to thank for modeling generosity to me from a very early age. I remember being in grade school and mom and dad would sit my sisters and me down in the family room and tell us the actual amount they were pledging to a particular church or Lutheran college campaign. At times the amount was so large that I’d worry about my ability to get the Calvin Klein jeans I wanted or go to DQ. What I remember, too, though, was their excitement and joy in telling us. They would also share their uncertainty about how the dollars would all shake out, which I found amazing. Mom and Dad not only modeled giving, but ultimately faith.

What other factors shape and/or inform your family's giving?

The belief, for Steve and I, that our money is not our own. We know that may come across as righteous, but the source is not. We have far too much in this world, which at times can scare and overwhelm us. We feel such freedom when we share what we have monetarily. It’s almost like a wave of relief pouring over us.

Who do you believe gets blessed when people (like you) are generous?

Steve and I will never know the reach of our financial gifts, but we are certain beyond our understanding, that we are the recipient of the blessing when we give. It’s a little like the Hebrew text, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”

Thank you, Steph (and Steve), for sharing your story and for practicing and promoting the concept of stewardship at Bethlehem in such full and generous ways!

Pastor’s Word continued from Page 1…

campuses will have to labor intentionally to think of this new enterprise as “us,” or “we, together,” as we move into the future. Both campuses are going to have to work hard to think about what’s best for us all, and not “what’s best for the campus I attend…”

Our goal will be to have similar experiences at both sites for just about everything we do, from worship to children, youth and family, to adult ministries. Another goal is to see growth in every way, from membership to spiritual maturity, at both campuses. The leadership of this new community is absolutely committed to seeing this happen. That is, to see God work with us and in us, to provide a new way of both thinking about and doing church in the 21st century!

Truly, what we are attempting is something new for Lutherans: multi-siting is something that our Evangelical brothers and sisters have been doing for some time now, but there are few Lutherans engaged in something like this, particularly with two churches working together as one. I believe that this is a way that God will use congregations like ours at a time when all too many churches are in decline. A large congregation, in concert with a smaller one, can reach out in ways that neither could do on their own. The larger church enters into a new mission field; the smaller one receives the benefits of a large staff. We’re better together!

God is going to use us all in ways that will stretch us, invigorate us, excite us, and lead us all into the future God is preparing for us. It’s a privilege to share in that journey with you. Thanks for your partnership in the Good News! Pastor Christopher Nelson

Becoming One Church with Two Campuses On March 1, we are officially 'Bethlehem Lutheran Church of the Twin Cities.' We will celebrate our new identity and shared mission when Bishop Ann Svennungsen joins us for worship on March 13: Sunday, March 13 (8, 9, 10:15, 11:30 am & 5 pm) Minneapolis campus Sunday, March 20 (9 & 10:45 am) Minnetonka campus

Please join us for this historic celebration!

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4100 Lyndale Ave South Minneapolis, MN 55409

Phone: 612.312.3400

Fax: 612.312.3399 Email: church@bethlehem-

church.org

bethlehem-church.org

Building Hours: Monday-Friday 8 am-9 pm Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm Sunday 7 am-1 pm and 3:30-6:00 pm

Service Times: Sundays—8, 9, 10:15, 11:30,

& 5 pm Wednesdays in Lent 7 pm Holy Week Thursday &

Friday Noon & 7 pm Easter Sunday—6, 7:30, 9,

10:30, Noon & 5 pm Nursery available at 9, 10:15

& 11:30 am on Sundays and 6:30-8 pm on Lent Wednesdays

Connecting people

with God, each other

and their mission in

the world.

Next Beacon Deadline: March 10, 2016

pdunn@bethlehem-church.org

Beacon now online www.bethlehem-church.org

What Would You Do With the Precious Few Moments On This Earth? by Luke Winskowski, Stewardship Ministry Team

I f money were no object what would you do with the precious few moments you have on this earth? Stop and

reread this question, ponder it honestly, and let your mind drift to the endless possibilities.

Next question: based on the many dreams going through your head, are you today using your precious few gifts of time, talent and treasure to support those things that call to your heart?

These powerful questions can get us outside the constraints of a scarcity mindset that tells us that we will never have “enough.” Consider Proverbs 3:9-10: “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.” We interpret this as a call to tithe, or the physical act of giving back what we first make to God, prior to consuming our own. I believe this could also be a mental act. Instead of limiting our potential by first measuring what we have available – or the lack thereof – we might consider identifying our potential first, and then stewarding the abundance we have to make this a reality.

Take time in this new year to dream and revel in the God gifted ability you are uniquely called to live an overflowing life. Then find joy in the thanksgiving for all that we have as a Bethlehem community to make all kinds of wonderful things happen in 2016!

Attention: All Bethlehem Members Who Are Thrivent Financial Members

Many thanks to those Bethlehem/Thrivent members who elected in 2015 to direct $9,420 to Bethlehem through the Thrivent Choice program! Since its inception in 2010, Thrivent members have provided nearly $225 million to help churches and other non-profits thrive through this unique program.

Thrivent Choice gives eligible Thrivent members regular and ongoing opportunities to recommend where Thrivent distributes some of its charitable outreach funds each year. Eligible members can take advantage of this charitable grant program by directing Choice Dollars to organizations they are passionate about, including Bethlehem.

If you are a Thrivent member who desires to support the mission and ministry of Bethlehem in such a manner, go online to www.thrivent.com/thriventchoice or call 800.847.4836 and say “Thrivent Choice” after the prompt.

Community News

Deaths Pauline Swanson, 1-28-16

Matthew Anderson, 2-4-16 Daniel Johnson, 2-7-16

Births/Adoptions Theodore Charles Christmas, 2-1-16 Parents: Peter & Melanie Christmas

Baptisms January 24, 2016

Davis John Woodstrom, 7-22-15 Parents: Allan & Stephanie Woodstrom

January 31, 2016 Luca Nya’Lee Rasmussen, 7-15-15 Parents: John & Lauren Rasmussen

February 7, 2016 Simon Gerald Morrell, 8-11-15

Parents: Shaun & Noelle Morrell

February 14, 2016 Bjorn Benjamin Cieslik, 10-8-15

Parents: Pastor Ben & Beth Cieslik

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Navigating the Health System: for individuals with mental health concerns Monday, March 14, 2016, 5:45-8:15 pm @ Bethlehem

Dustin Chapman, a licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor with Fairview and a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid trainer will be at Bethlehem to help answer difficult questions about the health system for people with mental health concerns. What does insurance cover? How do I find providers? What if I cannot pay for medications? Dustin will answer these questions and more. All are welcome! A light supper is served at 5:45 pm followed by Dustin’s presentation at 6:30 pm. This presentation is part of the collaborative Mental Health Ministry with St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church.

Who would speak for you if you couldn’t speak for yourself?

Health Care Directives Class March 9 or 31

Advance Care Planning is an ongoing process of reflecting on and discussing your choices based on your values, beliefs, goals and health status.

Learn how to complete or review your own health care directive. To register for a free class or find more information go to: fairview.org/choices or call 612.672.7272 or 1.800.824.1953 March 9, 1:30-3:00 pm Riverside Professional Building 606 24th Ave. S., Minneapolis,8th Floor Conf. Room

March 31, 1:00-2:30 pm Fairview Clinic Hiawatha 3809 42nd Ave. S., Minneapolis

2016 Senior Spring Luncheon Thursday, April 14, 2016 Save the date for the 2016 Senior Spring Luncheon. If you are 75 or over, join us for worship with communion at 11:00 am in the Sanctuary followed by a delicious luncheon in the Gallery. If you know someone who would like to attend, or would like to volunteer to help with transportation or serving, please contact Meghan Anderson, 612.312.3413 or manderson@bethlehem-church.org. Watch your mailbox and the April Beacon for more information!

Did you know... Mental Health Connect assisted roughly 56 individuals with their mental health concerns in 2015.

If you, or someone you know, struggles with mental illness call the Mental Health Navigator to learn more about mental health treatment options.

Mental Health Navigator Kristina Swanberg

Contact: (612) 312-3377 or kswanberg@bethlehem-church.org

mhconnect.org

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CareerWalk Spring Session Thursdays, 6:30-8:30 pm at Bethlehem

A new CareerWalk session kicks off on Thursday, March 3. If you are unemployed or simply looking to do something different, then CareerWalk is for you! CareerWalk helps people learn new skills, gain networking contacts, feel refreshed and supported in their job search. They will help you explore new interests and land jobs using the most effective tools and resources.

March 3— Off on the right foot—Attitude

March 10— Know yourself: Assessment, STAR stories

March 17— Marketing: Effective Resumes

March 24 & 31 Break

April 7— Marketing: Networking or LinkedIn

April 14— Marketing: Networking or LinkedIn

April 21 Break

April 28— Interviewing

May 5— Negotiating offers; Q&A, Wrap

To register or for more information go to bethlehem-church.org.

Evening Women's Book Group begins discussion of The Senator Next Door by Amy Klobuchar, the story of her life and her unshakeable faith in our democracy. All women welcome—Wednesdays, 6:30 pm.

Demystifying the Islamic Cultural Iceberg Taking a look below the surface — Three-part series begins March 13 We see the tip of the iceberg when we go shopping or visit a local school. Some of our neighbors wear a hijab or pause for prayer during the day. We recognize the signs of cultural identity but what do we really know about the Islamic faith? Its core values and attitudes towards God? The individual and family? Money and economics? Life and death? Good and evil? Sin and forgiveness? Health and wellness? Happiness and fun? This three-part series is designed to develop a clearer understanding of what it means to be a Muslim so we as Lutheran Christians can: Appreciate our shared values as a faithful people. Recognize when inaccurate or false statements are being made about

Muslims so we know what to say, do, believe or counteract. Work towards building more positive relationships with Muslims in our

own community and beyond. Session 1—Sunday, March 13, 10:15-11:15 am The Foundations of Islam: A Conversation with Samir Saikali* in Langemo Session 2—Sunday, April 3, 10:15-11:45 am “I’m Curious About___________ and the Muslim Faith” - A Shared Conversation and lunch with Samir Saikali* and friends in Langemo Lounge Session 3—Sunday, April 17 (times and location to be determined) Field Trip to a Mosque Register online at bethlehem-church.org, or call the church office, 612.312.3400. Participants are encouraged to read “MY NEIGHBOR IS MUSLIM: A Small Group Study Exploring the Muslim Faith,” which can be downloaded at the Bethlehem website. Focus on chapters 1, 4 and 5 before the first meeting. * Samir Saikali was born in Egypt and studied at the Holy Family Jesuits’ College and at American University in Cairo. He came to the United States in 1986 and worked as a business and financial analyst for many years. Samir is currently the Grant Writer and Data Manager for Neighborhood Development Center (a non-profit that promotes entrepreneurship as a pathway out of poverty), as well as the Acting Imam at Al-Salam Mosque in Maplewood. During the last 20 years, Samir has been regularly teaching about Islam and Muslims in order to increase communication and build bridges of mutual understanding and respect among all people. For more information, contact Pastor Kris Tostengard Michel, kristm@bethlehem-church.org.

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The Ten Commandments of Kindergarten Our children are very wise! During Family Sunday School, we explored the Ten Commandments and why God gave us these rules. We also talked about why parents give their children rules and how they can be smashed together into two as Jesus taught us: 1. Love God. 2. Love each other. They are to help us be safe, stay healthy, live well and love God. The 2 hours of classes came up with additional rules/commandments to add to the original 10. Here they are— The Kindergarteners’ Additional Commandments for the world to follow: 1. Have fun. 2. Clean up your own mess. 3. Drive safely so you don’t hit anyone. 4. Be safe, kind and nice to each other. 5. Take turns and share. 6. Encourage others for trying. 7. Can jump and run in church. 8. Every Thursday should be movie night. 9. Dessert should be first sometimes. 10. Everyone in the world should have: food, water, shelter, clothes,

parents, air, shoes and toys.

I am a Child of God– First Communion Families Together in Faith 9:30-Noon Saturday, March 5 OR April 30 All people are welcome to receive communion at Bethlehem and it is a family decision when your child will begin. We offer First Communion classes in

Sunday School to all 1st graders every year. The meal of Holy Communion is a gift of God, dependent not on how mature or perceptive we are, but on God’s grace. Sign up online and pick up a "First Communion" folder at one of the Sunday School hospitality desks.

Good Friday, Families Together In Faith Friday, March 25, 9:30-11:00 am

Holy Week is a roller coaster of feelings and stories. This class is for our Early Childhood learners. We will tell the stories and talk about the feelings of this powerful Jesus week. Register at bethlehem-church.org. Contact Kirsten with questions, kpatterson@bethlehem-church.org.

Sunday School Banner

Watch and experience our Gallery Lenten Cross Banner grow as the children share their walking dusty through Lent with the Bethlehem community.

One Year Old Easter Saturday, March 19, 9:00 – 10:30am

Meet with other families of young toddlers for a morning of Easter stories, music and crafts. Share the story of Easter, and start a family tradition. Siblings welcome. Questions? Email Jessica Epple, jepple@bethlehem-church.org.

Looking Ahead: 4th grade Family Sunday School April 10 & 17

Last day of Sunday School – June 5

Vacation Bible School at Bethlehem June 13 – 17

VBS Musicals week at Bethlehem June 20 – 24

Vacation Bible School at Minnetonka June 27 – July 1

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Finding a Home in the Cross

We think we want to follow Jesus, but to what end? Lent is a time to reflect on the end of Jesus’ ministry. He knew he was heading toward the cross, and he asked his friends and followers to join him. But instead Jesus’ friends fought over who is the greatest. His followers wandered when his teaching got hard. We see these tendencies in ourselves, too. What does it mean for us to follow Jesus? Are we willing to give of our time, money and lives? How far will we go? Embracing our Christian faith calls us to find a sense of home in the cross. What in our lives brings a sense of home? Where and with whom do we feel at home? What does it mean that there is suffering at the center of our faith?

This Lent, to help make these questions even more accessible, the youth program is so lucky and excited to be working with congregation member and artist Jon Kamrath. He is coaching us through helping him make a six foot tall cross, covered in homes and buildings that represent our communities and safe places in our lives. The project will take time and care over the course of Lent, culminating in an impressive piece of

art that will remind us of the centrality of the cross in our homes, hearts and lives. Youth and the youth staff will have a very prominent voice this Lent as we grapple with the suffering and death of Jesus. Maria Bucka recruited amazing high school, youth and children’s choirs to sing during Wednesday worships. Soren, Ellie, Steph, Pastor Ben and high school junior Madison Lyndsley will all be preaching on Wednesday nights, focusing on one verse from each Sunday’s gospel reading. We hope you pop in and check on our progress with Jon and the artistic cross. And please join us on Wednesday nights during Lent for Holden Evening Prayer as we journey together toward Good Friday with Easter hope in our hearts.

Find more information about opportunities for youth on the newly redesigned Bethlehem website! Follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, too!

Youth Staff Kirsten Patterson - kpatterson@bethlehem-church.org Pastor Ben - bcieslik@bethlehem-church.org Steph - ssmith@bethlehem-church.org Ellie - eroscher@bethlehem-church.org Soren - spoffenberger@bethlehem-church.org

Dates to Remember

Spring Retreat—March 12-13 Cinnamon Rolls—March 19 Spring Lock-In—April 9

Register online at bethlehem-church.org/youth today!

Bethlehem Youth Ministry has gone social!

Instagram: @612bym

facebook.com/612bym

Twitter: @612bym

Bethlehem Music Series presents...

Sunday, March 13, 2016, 4:00 pm 3:30 pm Pre-Concert Conversation

Klezmerica Jewish Music from the American Heartland Joe Vass, piano; Jay Maier Epstein, drums; Dale Mendenhall, woodwinds; Carolyn Boulay, violin; Dave Jensen, trumpet; Chris Bates, bass

“The sound is wonderful. It could have come from a dozen countries and times. You hear prayers from ancient Hebrew times wrapped in American blues. The Gypsies are here, Hasidic Jews, too, bumping up against cool jazz and a marching tune. It makes your feet pump. If there was room…you'd grab somebody and

dance. Or sing every sorrow and joy you ever felt. The music is boisterous, gaudy and brimming with tears.” - Minneapolis Star-Tribune

“Getting to Know You” Women’s Brunch Saturday, April 2, 11:00 am

Calling all women to join in the fun as we enjoy good food and fellowship with our new Minnetonka friends. Laughter will surely be part of the day as we get to know one another, relax together, enjoy good food and do something good for ZOOM House. Watch your mailbox for your special invitation coming soon.

Can You Help?

Easter is coming! There is no more exciting or busy time than Easter at Bethlehem. We will have many volunteers serving in the choir, as ushers, with worship set up and more. Many of the volunteers are here most or all of the morning and we need to keep them fed and energized. You can support the worship experience by helping to make coffee, setting up a simple breakfast and replenishing what is needed. We need to have things ready by 7:00 am and continue throughout the morning as volunteers take breaks for coffee and food. Please let us know if you can help for an hour or two. Contact Wendy, wosman@bethlehem-church.org, 612.312.3363.

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Lent 2016 Art Installation

During Lent, Jesus calls us to follow him to the cross. It's not an easy path, and it's not a luxurious destination. How, then, do we follow him faithfully? How do we find a sense of home in the cross? This Lent, artist and member Jon Kamrath is working with Bethlehem youth and members of Minnetonka Lutheran to create two sculptures that engage these themes and questions, making them more tangible and alive.

By Good Friday, we will place little clay houses on a six-foot tall cross alongside representations of our church building and our church partners. The final product will remind us that at the center of our faith is a love that endured great suffering. We know, then, in the midst of suffering Jesus is there to offer comfort and rest. Read more on Page 7.

Women’s Day of Service Gets Bigger Every Year

The enthusiasm was contagious in Iverson Hall on February 6 as 152 women and girls gathered for Women’s Day of Service. Much was accomplished! Many bandages were rolled, IV sets sorted for shipment overseas, many quilts tied, baby hats knit, and more than 5,600 items were collected for Hospice and Newborn Kits for Global Health Ministries. 1,525 bars of soap were collected for Our Saviour’s Community Services, Zoom House, CES, Division of Indian Work and HMCHA.

Thanks to Bethlehem’s Sunday School and 7th and 8th graders, who collected much of the soap, and especially to Eva Breiland for inspiring kids at Burroughs School to collect 331 bars of soap for us to share!

We were so productive that now the Women’s Day of Service shelves are almost bare. We collect the items for Hospice and Newborn Kits throughout the year – just drop them off at the office marked WDOS.

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ZOOM House Gala - Saturday, April 2 Doors open at 5:00 pm

Welcome and Dinner at 6:30 pm International Market Square, 275 Market St, Minneapolis

Individual tickets - $75 Host a table of 10 - $1000

Join us for this year's ZOOM House “Building Foundations” fundraising gala! The evening will include delicious food, live and silent auctions, a wine pull, fund-a-need opportunities, and other fun activities. ZOOM House is focused on helping families transition from homelessness to find roots and true welcome at ZOOM and in the community. This year, we celebrate ZOOM's first year without a 24-month limit for residents, helping to break the cycle of homelessness and build better foundations for their lives. Help us to continue “Building Foundations” at this year's ZOOM Gala. Purchase tickets at thezoomhouse.org, or contact the ZOOM House Coordinator, Kirstin, kirstin@thezoomhouse.org, 612.825.2825, ext. 1.

Last year’s Gala raised over $50,000 for the ZOOM House ministry. You are invited to join us this year for more fun, all for a great cause.

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Faith in Action – “Survive and Thrive” focus for 2016

Write letters Sundays March 6 & 13 in the Gallery

Information Session in Langemo Sunday, March 6, 10:15 am

Too many people around the world suffer without enough to eat. As followers of Christ, we seek to demonstrate God’s love by helping those in need and by encouraging policymakers to change laws to improve the lives of those in need. Each year Bethlehem members join the Bread for the World effort to change policies in the area of hunger and nutrition. On March 6 and 13, Bethlehem members are invited to take a few minutes to learn more about the Bread for the World goals for 2016. The focus this year is on funding for the nutrition and health of mothers, newborns and young children globally. For these two Sundays we will be providing information and writing letters to our Congress people on these issues.

Your letter writing has made a difference in funding levels over the years. We hope you will stop by on March 6 and 13. Contact Bread for the World champions for more information: Jeanne Iverson jeannemag@gmail.com Carole Peterson cpete572@gmail.com

Mission / Outreach Donations for March: Every month, money is designated to go to our mission partners. This month’s mission partners are: Bread for the World & MN Foodshare

Donate to the MN Foodshare March Food Drive

It’s time for us to step up to the ring with a big swing to supply food shelves with food and resources to feed the hungry!

Here’s a recent story of visitors to the Community Emergency Service Food Shelf (www.cesmn.org), on 11th Ave S:

“A young mother and grandmother sat in front waiting their turn at the food shelf. They were enjoying the 3-week old baby the mother was holding, smiling and laughing. Yet, the young mother hadn’t eaten that day, and there was little to eat at home for the rest of the week. Although she was nursing her baby, she was going without food.”

Over 500,000 Minnesotans are food insecure on a regular basis: children going to school hungry, seniors skipping meals to afford medications, and parents who skip meals so their children can eat.

Last year Bethlehem gave over 900 lbs. and $4,000 in donations in March.

Can we do better? Yes, we can! Here’s how to help:

Bring a bag of non-perishable groceries to Bethlehem, to one of the carts in the Gallery. Canned or boxed items are best. Please avoid glass containers and please check expiration dates on food items.

Make a check out to “Bethlehem Lutheran,” note “CES” on the memo line and place in the offering plate.

Pray for the work of CES and those who are served. Volunteer to work at CES on Sat, March 19, 10:00 am to 12 noon to sort

food. Contact Britta Iwen, bgiwen@gmail.com, or 612.721.2842 to sign up.

L e t ’ s b r i n g i t , B e t h l e h e m – w e c a n m a k e a d i f f e r e n c e !

Our Lenten Challenge...

Bethlehem has proven time and time again that when we take up a challenge together, the results can be amazing and life-giving. Together we can raise $10,000, toward the $2M goal, for ELCA World Hunger by Easter Sunday, March 27.

If you wish to contribute, please make your check payable to Bethlehem Lutheran Church, noting ELCA World Hunger in the memo line; make your contribution online at bethlehem-church.org or use the Giving Kiosk in the gallery.

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Great Family Trip to Argentina, Late July/Early August 2016

Join the Rimington family and Toni Furch for an approximately 12-day return trip to visit Bethlehem's partner congregation in Obera, Argentina. The goal of this trip is to continue our relationship with Olaus Petri congregation, learn from their experience, explore ways that we can support each other in our missions, and immerse ourselves in a different culture that shares our same faith. The cost is estimated to be around $1200 per person, plus airfare ($1600-1800), and includes tourist time in Buenos Aires and the impressive Iguazu Falls. Accommodations in clean, basic hotels. Assistance through Bethlehem's Outreach Ministry and fundraising are possible. Great experience for families, couples and individuals. Since exact dates have not yet been determined, there is potential to pick dates to fit the travelers' schedules. Deadline for signing up is March 31. Contact Rob and Amy Rimington, 612.922.6492. rimdawg71@hotmail.com.

Alternative Gift Fair: Helping Neighbors Around the Block and Around the World

S ince 2004 you have been giving gifts of bed nets, goats, literacy training, fruit trees, bus cards, cataract surgery and more to neighbors in need on

almost every continent.

Bethlehem has helped thousands and our gift fair has spread to churches in northern Minnesota, Wisconsin, Washington and Arizona. Many families take the time to read aloud the inserts that describe the gift. This year’s gift fair was another success, thanks to the generosity of Bethlehem members and guests: $18,052 has been sent to recipients, and in addition we will nominate a food shelf to receive another grant from Alternative Gifts International.

Here’s a quote from a thank you note received by Jean Westberg from her nephew.

“I am genuinely thankful for the donations you give me each year. In one of the church services I attended before Christmas, the youth pastor showed us some stats about poverty levels around the world and it blew my mind. On Christmas morning I honestly felt guilty as I sat in a heated house surrounded by family, opening all the neatly wrapped gifts we received. But when I read your slip of paper about the family in Thailand that received three chicks, my spirits were lifted. Christmas is meant to be a celebration of Jesus’ birth and I felt that showing His love through these donations is one of the best ways possible to do so. It’s people like you who stand out and are making a difference and I wanted to make sure you know I recognize that. I’ve kept every one of these donations and a smile always comes to my face when I look at them. Thank you so, so, so much for giving me the opportunity to experience the gift of giving.”

STARFISH...The First Five Years

With the turn of the calendar year, Starfish Ministries entered its sixth year of helping individuals and families facing a financial crisis. This ministry, in partnership with our neighbor, Judson Memorial Baptist, is funded by both churches and by your donations, and is operated by volunteers from both churches.

In its first five years Starfish has helped 295 individuals and families. We helped 242 of these requesters once. Some 53 requesters were helped more than once. In an average month, we help six to seven requesters. While we have been blessed to help members of either church, the great majority of people seeking help (about 95%) come from the broader community. Your generous support for this ministry has enabled this extension of Christian love and compassion to so many people. Many of the lives touched by this ministry are in transition in regard to housing or work. We have provided critical help in enabling a family to secure or maintain reasonable housing or to maintain their family’s circumstances until an initial paycheck is received. Thanks to Bethlehem members for your support.

March 6—To What End? Mark 12:28-44 (Beware)

March 13—To What End? Mark 13:1-8, 24-37 (Great Buildings)

March 20—To What End? PALM SUNDAY Mark 11:1-11

March 27—EASTER Mark 16:1-8

Service times: Sundays – 8, 9, 10:15, 11:30 am, 5 pm

Nursery available at 9:00, 10:15 & 11:30 am Sundays

Wednesdays in Lent 7:00 pm Holy Week Thursday & Friday Noon & 7 pm Easter 6:00, 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 am, Noon & 5 pm

Visit us at www.bethlehem-church.org or Email at church@bethlehem-church.org Telephone 612.312.3400 Fax 612.312.3399

4100 Lyndale Ave. S. Minneapolis, MN 55409

The Sandwich Project Sunday, March 6, 2016, 9:00 and 10:15 am Iverson Hall

“...you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart,...You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment

greater than these.”– Mark 12:30-31

Adult Ministries in collaboration with Children’s Ministries will make 3000+ sandwiches to be delivered to local shelters and homeless individuals. If you are 65+ or a Sunday School student, don’t miss this incredible opportunity to love our homeless and hungry neighbors right here in Minneapolis. “The Sandwich Guy,” Mr. Allan Law, featured on local and national news, will be at Bethlehem to share where and how the sandwiches are distributed to those in need in Minneapolis. He will also share his story. To sign up or for more information go to bethlehem-church.org or call the church office. (Sunday School students do not need to sign-up.)

*There will be two sandwich-making sessions. (One during each Sunday School hour.) Please choose a session when you sign-up.