The Bethlehem Star
Volume 10, Issue 7, August 2011
Notice of Special Congregational Meeting
Sunday, August 11
Immediately following Worship (approximately 9:25 a.m.)
The purpose of the meeting is to vote on the 2011-2012 Mission Endowment Budget. The proposed budget is found on the last page in this issue of The Star. Contact the office if you need a copy of the budget before the meeting.
Mid-year Statements Enclosed
Mid-year statements from the financial secretary are enclosed in this newsletter. Look them over carefully. If you note discrepancies, call Financial Secretary Pauline Schoop.
Also check to see if you are “on track” with your giving goals for 2011. If you missed a week or missed a month, you may wish to try to “catch-up.” Prayerfully consider whether you need to change your plan or commitment for giving during 2011. Remember your giving supports our ministry at Bethlehem as well as needed ministry around the world.
Sharing Agreement to be Reworked
The Councils of Bethlehem (BLC) and St. Mark Lutheran Church (SMLC) will meet in September to start reworking the sharing agreement made in 2001 prior to calling Pr. Keith Larson and AIM Barb Tobiason. At that time, Pastor Larson was called to full-time pastoral ministry and AIM Tobiason to half-time ministry (11 month year). Pastor Larson’s time and salary was 80% for BLC and 20% for SMLC. AIM Tobiason’s time and salary was 60% for SMLC and 40% BLC. Based on a 48-hour workweek, this provided for full-time pastoral service for Bethlehem and half-time for St. Mark. A change in this agreement is needed because of Barb’s impending “retirement” in 2012 and intention to work fewer hours. Congregations must approve any new agreement.
Festival of Shared Ministries - Bethlehem and St. Mark Lutheran Churches Together for Worship and Celebration
Sunday, August 28, 8:30 a.m., at Bethlehem
Bethlehem and St. Mark will gather for worship at Bethlehem this year to celebrate our shared ministries. Holy Communion will be celebrated. A time of food and fellowship will follow.
ELCA Church-wide Assembly Gathers
The ELCA gathers in Churchwide Assembly August 15 – 19 in Orlando, Florida. This group with over 1000 voting members elected at Synod Assemblies around the country meets every two years and is the highest legislative body of the ELCA (like a Congregation Annual meeting). Attending from the area as voting members are Pastor Keith Larson, and Steve Fishwild, First Lutheran, Maquoketa (son-in-law of Jean and Ray Ewing (St. Mark).
All members can follow the Assembly online on the Web at http://www.ELCA.org, on Facebook at: http://www.facebook.com/Lutherans, and on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/ELCA. (Hashtags for the assembly will be #CWA11 and #ELCA).
Persons can also go to http://www.ELCA.org, to find the agenda and information on all items currently on the agenda (items can be brought from the floor). Business will include voting on a Social Statement on genetics, and on proposals coming from a L.I.F.T. (Living into the Future Together) taskforce that could change the length of time between Churchwide Assemblies from 2 years to 3 years, eliminate some advisory groups and change ways certain ELCA-related ministries are funded. This commission was established to consider how the ELCA can be a church in today’s society where fewer people join churches and fewer financial resources are available to denominations.
Persons who have questions or wish to see actual items on the agenda and cannot access them on-line are invited to speak with Pastor.
August Birthdays
2 Wilma Adrian, Mindy Stoll
5 Farrie Ihns
8 Tom Gerdes
11 Ashley Alden
13 Ellen Pithan
14 Lola Berner
15 Brendon Koch
17 Velene Merrick
18 Lucile Schurbon
20 Emma Thiede, Madilyn Koch
22 Dillon Bickford
24 Dan Balichek
25 Jone Paarmann
26 Anna Weiss, Jill Suthers, Kari Rigg
27 Ginger Anderson-Larson
30 Herold Rehmke
31 Xera Tubbs
August Anniversaries
2 Ginger Anderson-Larson and Keith Larson
18 Joyce and Bob Feuss
19 Lorice and Paul Amlin
25 Shelley and Robert Beeck
27 Sue and Dana Zeller
Food Board Keeps the Pantry Running
Each month from 8 to 12 or more people gather for the monthly meeting of the Lost Nation Food Board, which operates the Lost Nation Food Pantry. Each congregation in Lost Nation, along with the Methodist congregation in Elwood and Delmar has 2 or 3 representatives. Many other volunteers from congregations also assist on Friday when the Food pantry is open at union Presbyterian.
At the July meeting, the board learned that fewer food items are currently available from the “food bank”, and it is likely that fewer yet will be available in the future. More items need to be purchased at cost, or at least in cooperation with local grocers. Fortunately, area congregations, organizations and individuals have generously supported the Food Pantry over the years and the Food Board can absorb the additional expense for now.
The Food Panty never turns down food items, but practically, financial gifts are preferred. It is just easier to store and distribute cases of food containers that are all the same size and shape rather than having a dozen different sizes of canned vegetables.
The Food Pantry will accept fresh garden produce from growers who wish to donate. Bring it by Union Presbyterian on Thursdays from 9:00 to noon or before 8:30 on Fridays.
The food pantry always can use toilet tissue, an item needed in every household, but not able to be purchased with food assistance cards.
Board members and volunteers from Bethlehem include Ellen Pithan, Rochelle Busch, Jeannette Schroeder, Enos Ihns, and Pastor Keith. If you have an interest in serving on the Board, or if you would like to be a volunteer, or even if you would like to volunteer only one Friday, just to see how it works, talk to Pastor.
Council Meets
Bethlehem council met July 12 for its regular meeting. Before the meeting they reviewed procedures for opening the elevator in case of emergency. In business they:
• went over plans for the “listening posts” to be held on July 24, 31, and August 7;
• discussed the upcoming joint meeting with St. Mark’s Council, on September 20, to begin working the sharing agreement with them regarding pastoral services;
• heard the following Treasurer’s report:
Balance 5/31/11 $ 9,555.59
Income June $ 5,260.63
Expenses May $ 8,656.66
Balance 5/31/10 $ 6,159.56
Member Giving Needed Monthly $6,000.00
Amount Received in June $5,260.00
June Shortfall $ 740.00
Shortfall to Date – 2011 $3,284.00
School Kits
We will again be gathering items for school kits. These help children – and in some cases, adults – continue learning despite the hardships they face.
Items Needed For 1 Kit:
4 70 sheet notebooks (wide or college ruled paper, approx 8X10 1/2 inches)*
1 30 centimeter ruler – centimeters on one side & inches on the other
1 pencil sharpener
1 blunt scissors
1 2½ inch eraser
5 unsharpened #2 pencils with erasers
5 ballpoint pens (no gel ink)*
1 box of 16 or 24 crayons
No construction paper*
*Items with an asterisk are changes this year.
Our goal is 100 kits!
Last year we put together 123 kits.
Watch for the back-to-school sales!
Barb’s Message
Alex is one of several younger greeters at Bethlehem. It is an absolute joy to know that all these children will be there to seek you out and say, “Hi.” They are the ultimate greeters. Alex especially greets everyone with the zeal with which the Apostle Paul greeted the fledgling churches, only Paul had some ulterior motives besides the greetings for his letters. Alex is just glad to see everyone. My favorite Alexism: “You are one of a kind.” I think Alex expresses exactly what God is thinking of each of us.
One Sunday, before worship, Alex was sitting beside me on the pew, in the front row, no less. (Alex’s Lutheran roots are questionable. He doesn’t seem to be afraid of being close to the altar and pulpit.) He proceeded to take off his shoes and socks and set them aside. After awhile, when mom discovered he was barefoot, she brought him up to retrieve and put on the shoes and socks, explaining that going barefoot was something we probably shouldn’t do in church. Going barefoot actually doesn’t sound too bad when you think about it. Sunday shoes can be brutal.
A couple Sundays later, I was laughing with Alex’s mom about it, and she said that Alex is so at ease in church and feels so comfortable in God’s presence, that he just makes himself at home. How God must delight in Alex’s contentment and uninhibited happiness!
I thought to myself, “Do we, as adults, feel comfortable in God’s presence?” I suspect we don’t feel as comfortable as we could. Often, we come concerned about how we present ourselves, as if we could fool God for one millisecond. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could plunk down in the front and be so easy with God that we make ourselves feel so at home in church that we could even kick off our shoes?
I think God would be perfectly ok with it if we didn’t have self-imposed regulations about how we present ourselves in church. We need to be assured that church is our home where we can say and show how we feel. Just imagine how God would feel if we would worship with complete and honest joy and excitement – even if we sing off-key or get the versions of the Lord’s Prayer mixed up. We can be respectful and reverent and still be honest with our feelings. After all, God knows what is in our hearts and minds, anyway.
If Alex feels comfortable enough with God to go barefoot in church, that’s ok. We should all feel so comfortable with God. I am relatively certain God is less concerned with what is on our feet than with what is in our hearts.
Worship Assistants
Greeters: Marlene Hicks, Les Paarmann
Ushers: Pat Hansen, Dennis Kleppe
Lectors
7- Connie Kleppe
14- Jone Paarmann
21- Ellen Pithan
28- Emma Thiede
Communion Servers:
7- Marlene Hicks, Brent Ihns
21- Jessica Ihns, Enos Ihns
Acolytes:
7- Halie Gruenwald
21- Hannah Gruenwald
28- Jo Thiede
Altar Care: Elenor Bentrott, Lynda Humphreys
Bread Maker: Bob Hendrickson
Tellers: Tim Thiede, Ron Christiansen
Fellowship Servers:
7- Rochelle Busch, Darla Fields, Marlene Hicks
14- Joyce Feuss, Kathy Duffey, Donna Dosland
21- Elenor Bentrott, Lola Berner, Pat Hendrickson
28- Diana Ihns, Becky Petersen, Corynn Bennett
BWELCA Hilites
News from Spokane Washington, Deanne Bennett attended the 8th Annual Women of the ELCA Triennial Convention and Gathering July 12 – 18. This was Deanne’s first time as a delegate for SE Iowa Women’s Synod. There were 400 delegates who attended this convention. Time was shared in worship, business and reflection. We approved the rules of procedure and the agenda for the convention. In remarks about the "State of the ELCA," ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson thanked the Women of the ELCA for its leadership of the whole church.
Delegates overwhelmingly adopted several memorials. They ask for:
+ Women of the ELCA to learn about climate change and its effects, and work with the ELCA to advocate for new energy sources.
+ support of programs to educate women and children to avoid the dangers of sexual predators or dealers in pornography and human trafficking, writing to TV networks and companies to share concerns about the issue, and asking staff to provide a program resource to address human trafficking.
+ members to reach out to women in congregations and synods who are struggling with "issues related to congregations' decisions to leave the ELCA by modeling God's love, care and compassion." The memorial also called for development of resources, nurturing relationships and promoting inclusivity for women in these situations.
+ Women of the ELCA was asked to prayerfully consider "in future budgets" their financial support of and partnership with Lutheran campus ministries.
+ Delegates encouraged Women of the ELCA to support the "1,000 Days Initiative," which addresses hunger and malnutrition in women and children.
+ They asked Women of the ELCA to work toward elimination of bias and exclusion, and asked members to devise ways to seek leaders who are persons of color, those whose primary language is other than English or persons who are definitely abled.
+ They asked the organization to consider the possibility of providing tools for English/Spanish translating equipment at the next triennial convention.
Delegates also participated in a Bible study, "Women of the Bible: Our Inspiration for Renewal and Joyful Response," presented by the Rev. Wilma Kucharek, bishop of the ELCA Slovak Zion Synod. "We are women of God. We are inspired by our female ancestors in the faith, these heroines in the faith," she said. On the third ballot delegates elected Jennifer Michael, Pensacola, Fla., as the churchwide Women of the ELCA president.
“Sisters of the ELCA, it's time to rise up,” said Leymah Gbowee, Saturday’s plenary speaker—and peacemaker, activist, and mother from Liberia. “God is calling us today to reclaim our space.” Speakers at the opening session of the Women of the ELCA Triennial Gathering July 15 focused on the power of Jesus Christ to bring hope and healing to people in distress and to a hurting world.
All in all it was a truly amazing week, seeing familiar faces and meeting new people and making fast friendships. Thank you to the Women at Bethlehem for supporting me for this wonderful adventure. There is a lot more information on the Women of the ELCA web site, Triennial Convention and Gathering. Lots of photos.
SE Iowa 2011 Synodical Gathering
Theme: “RESPOND” Friday and Saturday, August 5, 6 at the Best Western Regency Inn in Marshalltown. Registration starts Friday from 4:30-6:00 p.m. with “Girls Night Out” going to the Binford House that evening. Registration and refreshments start at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday. Forms can be found on the table in the narthex.
Hope Cluster Fall Retreat
Mark your calendars for Friday and Saturday, Sept. 9, 10. Come join Elizabeth, Mary and Anna, “A Study of Women of Faith”. Our presenters will be Pastors Donnita Moeller, Lisa Dietrich and Lynn Thiede. Things to bring: brown bag supper and a beverage for Friday night. Can of soup for Saturday’s dump-soup lunch, bible, flashlight, munchies to share and personal items. Each church unit is to bring supplies for school kits, the bags will be provided. Forms can be found on the table in the narthex and there will be an insert in the bulletin the first week in August.
Nominating committee for the BWELCA Board will be the out going officers.
Pastor Keith Larson
Office Phone 678-2301
Home Phone 563-652-2599
Emergency 563-447-0652
pastor@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Pastoral Associate Barb Tobiason
Office Phone 826-2761
Home Phone 563-487-2116
AIM@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Office Secretary Deanne Bennett
Church Phone 678-2301
secretary@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Parish Nurse Carm Schneider
Office Hours 9:00 a.m. -10:30 a.m. Tues
Phone 678-2302
Sunday Schedule
Worship 8:30 a.m.
Fellowship 9:30 a.m..
Office Hours
Pastor Keith is in the office most mornings
Monday – Thursday 9:00 a.m. – Noon
and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
If you need to enter the church and do not have a key, please contact the church before coming to make sure someone is there.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Bethehem Star - July
The Bethlehem Star
Volume 10, Issue 7
July 2011
Lost Nation Rustic Days
Community Worship
Sunday, July 18
9:30 a.m.
At Union Presbyterian
We will celebrate our common Christian ministries!
(No worship services at Bethlehem that Sunday.)
Notice of Special Congregational Meeting
Sunday, August 14
Immediately following Worship
(approximately 9:25 a.m.)
The purpose of the meeting is to vote on the 2011-2012 Mission Endowment Budget. The proposed budget is found on the last page in this issue of The Star.
Council Listening Posts to Be Scheduled
Bethlehem Council members will hold a series of listening posts on Sundays, July 24, 31, and August 7 at 9:45 a.m. and 10:10 a.m. Persons may sign up to share individually with 2 – 3 council members or to share as part of a group. A sign up sheet is posted on the end of the mailboxes in the conference room, or you can call office and Council secretary Deanne Bennett to make an appointment. The purpose of these listening posts will be only to hear comments and concerns related to the ability of Pastor Larson to serve adequately and effectively as pastor without living in the parsonage. Council members will appreciate all viewpoints. It is important to share them in these listening posts so all opinions can be adequately heard and accounted for. If none of the these opportunities work for you, contact Deanne.
ELCA to Meet in Churchwide Assembly
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America meets in Churchwide Assembly every two years. (This is comparable to a congregation’s Annual Congregation Meeting). The Assembly will be held August 15 – 19 this summer in Orlando. Each Synod elects voting members based on the numerical size of the synod. Pastor Keith Larson was one of 17 persons elected from the Southeastern Iowa Synod. The Assembly brings over 1000 voting members together from across the ELCA for a time of business, worship and inspiration. The Assembly is the highest legislative body of the ELCA. In Churchwide Assembly cont. from column 1
business this year the Assembly will vote on a Social Statement dealing with genetics, constitutional changes and other proposals coming from a L.I.F.T. (Living into the Future Together) taskforce that could change the length of time between Churchwide Assemblies form 2 years to 3 years, eliminate some advisory groups and change ways certain ELCA-related ministries are funded.
To read all about the Assembly go to www.elca.org and click on “2011 Assembly.” Persons wanting printed copies of items to be voted on can ask pastor to have them printed.
College Scholarships
Scholarship applications for all Bethlehem college students are available in the church office. All students enrolled in the 2011 - 2012 school term must complete an application and return it to the office on or before August 1, 2011. Students must be confirmed members of Bethlehem and must maintain academic eligibility. Scholarship money will be sent directly to your college at the beginning of each semester.
Note to those who will be high school seniors in the fall – if you anticipate that you might graduate early and begin college early, you should apply for a scholarship before August 1, 2012.
July Birthdays
3 Kathy Snyder
3 Charlotte Ihns
4 Leta Dunt
7 Kirk Snyder
8 Eleanor Christensen
13 Kolton Novak
14 Ron Gruenwald
15 Marvel Hamann
16 Diana Ihns
19 Timothy Mullins
21 Landon Hicks
22 Kathy Hute
26 Michelle Keller
27 Cornell Dunt
29 Bob Hendrickson
29 Riley Christiansen
July Anniversaries
8 Katie and Jason Thompson
10 Kindy and RayPaul Nissen
10 Katie and Zac Brauer
22 Barb and Glenn Tobiason
28 Jill and Gene Suthers
Council Meets
Bethlehem Congregation Council met for the regular monthly meeting on June 14. In business, they:
• Approved the proposed Bethlehem Mission endowment Budget (see later page in this month’s Star);
• Set Sunday, August 14 for a congregation meeting for the purpose of voting on the 2011-21012 Mission Endowment Budget;
• Heard the following Treasurer’s report:
Balance 4/30/10 $10,749.00
May Income $6,329.06
May Expenses $7,522.47
Balance 5/31/10 $9,555.59
Member Giving Needed Monthly $6,000.00
Amount Received in April $6,329.06
April Overage $ 329.06
Shortfall to Date – 2011 $2,554.00
Tobiasons Celebrate Grandsons
Pastoral Associate Barb, and her husband Glenn celebrated the birth of two grandsons a few days apart in June. Kameron Allan, 8 lb, 15 oz was born to son Kyle and wife Melinda, of Scotch Grove on June 11. Jackson Allan, 6 lb, 11oz was born to daughter Kim and husband Ryan of Naperville, IL on June 15. Jackson had to spend a few days in Neonatal Intensive Care, but is doing fine.
BWELCA Hilites
BWELCA Board to meet Tuesday, July 5 at 6 p.m.
BWELCA Summer Joint Bible Study will be Tuesday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. in the basement at Bethlehem. AIM Barb will lead the study from the summer lessons found in the June, July/August Lutheran Woman Today magazine. All are welcome to join in this bible study.
Join us at the 24th Annual Gathering for the Southeastern Iowa Woman of the ELCA on August 5, 6 in Marshalltown at the Best Western Regency Inn. Girls night out is planned for Friday, August 5 starting with supper at the Binford House, followed with treats back at the hotel and ideas and discussion on some of the ways we can continue our giving to others using our talents. The Iowa State Veterans Home will be one of the recipients of the “Love Gifts” of forever stamps, lap robes, or stationary for the residents that have served us. The Gathering will be the next day with some amazing things to do. Forms are on the table in the narthex.
July Worship
The schedule for Holy Communion is altered in July to accommodate Rustic Days Community Worship. Holy Communion will be celebrated on July 3 and July 24.
Worship Assistants
Greeters: Pat Hansen, Darrel Hicks
Ushers: Warren Ihns, Roger Kleppe
Lectors:
3- Pat Hendrickson
10- Lynda Humphreys
17- Brent Ihns
24- Jessica Ihns
31- Clay Ketchum
Communion Servers:
3- Scott Doll, Emily Horst
24- Pat Hendrickson, Darrel Hicks
Acolytes:
3- Jo Thiede
24- Jenna Holtz
Altar Care: Eleanor Christiansen, Jeannette Schroeder
Bread Maker: Bob Hendrickson
Tellers: Emma Thiede, Deanne Bennett
Fellowship Servers:
4- Jody Holtz, Kelly Doll, Melissa McChesney
11- Darlene C. Deb C. Emily Horst, Sue Zeller
18- NO Fellowship Ecumenical Worship @UPC
25- Madge White, Stella Franck, Emma Thiede
31- Kathy Becker, Leta Dunt, Corynn Bennett
School Kits
We will again be gathering items for school kits. These help children – and in some cases, adults – continue learning despite the hardships they face.
Items Needed For 1 Kit:
4 70 sheet notebooks (wide or college ruled paper, approx 8X10 1/2 inches)*
1 30 centimeter ruler – centimeters on one side & inches on the other
1 pencil sharpener
1 blunt scissors
1 2½ inch eraser
5 unsharpened #2 pencils with erasers
5 ballpoint pens (no gel ink)*
1 box of 16 or 24 crayons
No construction paper*
*Items with an asterisk are changes this year.
Our goal is 100 kits.
Last year we put together 123 kits.
Watch for the back-to-school sales!
July 2011
Pastor Keith Larson
Office Phone 678-2301
Home Phone 652-2599
Emergency 563-447-0652
pastor@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Pastoral Associate Barb Tobiason
Office Phone 826-2761
Home Phone 563-487-2116
AIM@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Office Secretary Deanne Bennett
Church Phone 678-2301
secretary@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Parish Nurse Carm Schneider
Office Hours 9:00 a.m. -10:30 a.m. Tues
Phone 678-2302
Office Hours
Pastor Keith is in the office most mornings Monday – Thursday 9:30 a.m. – Noon and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. If you need to enter the church and do not have a key, please contact the church before coming to make sure someone is there.
Volume 10, Issue 7
July 2011
Lost Nation Rustic Days
Community Worship
Sunday, July 18
9:30 a.m.
At Union Presbyterian
We will celebrate our common Christian ministries!
(No worship services at Bethlehem that Sunday.)
Notice of Special Congregational Meeting
Sunday, August 14
Immediately following Worship
(approximately 9:25 a.m.)
The purpose of the meeting is to vote on the 2011-2012 Mission Endowment Budget. The proposed budget is found on the last page in this issue of The Star.
Council Listening Posts to Be Scheduled
Bethlehem Council members will hold a series of listening posts on Sundays, July 24, 31, and August 7 at 9:45 a.m. and 10:10 a.m. Persons may sign up to share individually with 2 – 3 council members or to share as part of a group. A sign up sheet is posted on the end of the mailboxes in the conference room, or you can call office and Council secretary Deanne Bennett to make an appointment. The purpose of these listening posts will be only to hear comments and concerns related to the ability of Pastor Larson to serve adequately and effectively as pastor without living in the parsonage. Council members will appreciate all viewpoints. It is important to share them in these listening posts so all opinions can be adequately heard and accounted for. If none of the these opportunities work for you, contact Deanne.
ELCA to Meet in Churchwide Assembly
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America meets in Churchwide Assembly every two years. (This is comparable to a congregation’s Annual Congregation Meeting). The Assembly will be held August 15 – 19 this summer in Orlando. Each Synod elects voting members based on the numerical size of the synod. Pastor Keith Larson was one of 17 persons elected from the Southeastern Iowa Synod. The Assembly brings over 1000 voting members together from across the ELCA for a time of business, worship and inspiration. The Assembly is the highest legislative body of the ELCA. In Churchwide Assembly cont. from column 1
business this year the Assembly will vote on a Social Statement dealing with genetics, constitutional changes and other proposals coming from a L.I.F.T. (Living into the Future Together) taskforce that could change the length of time between Churchwide Assemblies form 2 years to 3 years, eliminate some advisory groups and change ways certain ELCA-related ministries are funded.
To read all about the Assembly go to www.elca.org and click on “2011 Assembly.” Persons wanting printed copies of items to be voted on can ask pastor to have them printed.
College Scholarships
Scholarship applications for all Bethlehem college students are available in the church office. All students enrolled in the 2011 - 2012 school term must complete an application and return it to the office on or before August 1, 2011. Students must be confirmed members of Bethlehem and must maintain academic eligibility. Scholarship money will be sent directly to your college at the beginning of each semester.
Note to those who will be high school seniors in the fall – if you anticipate that you might graduate early and begin college early, you should apply for a scholarship before August 1, 2012.
July Birthdays
3 Kathy Snyder
3 Charlotte Ihns
4 Leta Dunt
7 Kirk Snyder
8 Eleanor Christensen
13 Kolton Novak
14 Ron Gruenwald
15 Marvel Hamann
16 Diana Ihns
19 Timothy Mullins
21 Landon Hicks
22 Kathy Hute
26 Michelle Keller
27 Cornell Dunt
29 Bob Hendrickson
29 Riley Christiansen
July Anniversaries
8 Katie and Jason Thompson
10 Kindy and RayPaul Nissen
10 Katie and Zac Brauer
22 Barb and Glenn Tobiason
28 Jill and Gene Suthers
Council Meets
Bethlehem Congregation Council met for the regular monthly meeting on June 14. In business, they:
• Approved the proposed Bethlehem Mission endowment Budget (see later page in this month’s Star);
• Set Sunday, August 14 for a congregation meeting for the purpose of voting on the 2011-21012 Mission Endowment Budget;
• Heard the following Treasurer’s report:
Balance 4/30/10 $10,749.00
May Income $6,329.06
May Expenses $7,522.47
Balance 5/31/10 $9,555.59
Member Giving Needed Monthly $6,000.00
Amount Received in April $6,329.06
April Overage $ 329.06
Shortfall to Date – 2011 $2,554.00
Tobiasons Celebrate Grandsons
Pastoral Associate Barb, and her husband Glenn celebrated the birth of two grandsons a few days apart in June. Kameron Allan, 8 lb, 15 oz was born to son Kyle and wife Melinda, of Scotch Grove on June 11. Jackson Allan, 6 lb, 11oz was born to daughter Kim and husband Ryan of Naperville, IL on June 15. Jackson had to spend a few days in Neonatal Intensive Care, but is doing fine.
BWELCA Hilites
BWELCA Board to meet Tuesday, July 5 at 6 p.m.
BWELCA Summer Joint Bible Study will be Tuesday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. in the basement at Bethlehem. AIM Barb will lead the study from the summer lessons found in the June, July/August Lutheran Woman Today magazine. All are welcome to join in this bible study.
Join us at the 24th Annual Gathering for the Southeastern Iowa Woman of the ELCA on August 5, 6 in Marshalltown at the Best Western Regency Inn. Girls night out is planned for Friday, August 5 starting with supper at the Binford House, followed with treats back at the hotel and ideas and discussion on some of the ways we can continue our giving to others using our talents. The Iowa State Veterans Home will be one of the recipients of the “Love Gifts” of forever stamps, lap robes, or stationary for the residents that have served us. The Gathering will be the next day with some amazing things to do. Forms are on the table in the narthex.
July Worship
The schedule for Holy Communion is altered in July to accommodate Rustic Days Community Worship. Holy Communion will be celebrated on July 3 and July 24.
Worship Assistants
Greeters: Pat Hansen, Darrel Hicks
Ushers: Warren Ihns, Roger Kleppe
Lectors:
3- Pat Hendrickson
10- Lynda Humphreys
17- Brent Ihns
24- Jessica Ihns
31- Clay Ketchum
Communion Servers:
3- Scott Doll, Emily Horst
24- Pat Hendrickson, Darrel Hicks
Acolytes:
3- Jo Thiede
24- Jenna Holtz
Altar Care: Eleanor Christiansen, Jeannette Schroeder
Bread Maker: Bob Hendrickson
Tellers: Emma Thiede, Deanne Bennett
Fellowship Servers:
4- Jody Holtz, Kelly Doll, Melissa McChesney
11- Darlene C. Deb C. Emily Horst, Sue Zeller
18- NO Fellowship Ecumenical Worship @UPC
25- Madge White, Stella Franck, Emma Thiede
31- Kathy Becker, Leta Dunt, Corynn Bennett
School Kits
We will again be gathering items for school kits. These help children – and in some cases, adults – continue learning despite the hardships they face.
Items Needed For 1 Kit:
4 70 sheet notebooks (wide or college ruled paper, approx 8X10 1/2 inches)*
1 30 centimeter ruler – centimeters on one side & inches on the other
1 pencil sharpener
1 blunt scissors
1 2½ inch eraser
5 unsharpened #2 pencils with erasers
5 ballpoint pens (no gel ink)*
1 box of 16 or 24 crayons
No construction paper*
*Items with an asterisk are changes this year.
Our goal is 100 kits.
Last year we put together 123 kits.
Watch for the back-to-school sales!
July 2011
Pastor Keith Larson
Office Phone 678-2301
Home Phone 652-2599
Emergency 563-447-0652
pastor@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Pastoral Associate Barb Tobiason
Office Phone 826-2761
Home Phone 563-487-2116
AIM@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Office Secretary Deanne Bennett
Church Phone 678-2301
secretary@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Parish Nurse Carm Schneider
Office Hours 9:00 a.m. -10:30 a.m. Tues
Phone 678-2302
Office Hours
Pastor Keith is in the office most mornings Monday – Thursday 9:30 a.m. – Noon and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. If you need to enter the church and do not have a key, please contact the church before coming to make sure someone is there.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Bethlehem Star June 2011
The Bethlehem Star
Volume 9, Issue 6
June 2011
Summer Worship Times
During the summer months of June, July, and August, starting June 5, the schedule is:
Worship at Bethlehem: 8:30 a.m.
Worship at St. Mark’s: 9:45 a.m.
Unity Sunday, when we celebrate our common ministries at Bethlehem and St. Mark, will be held at the end of the summer.
Lost Nation Vacation Bible School
June 6 - 10
At Union Presbyterian
Call the office:
• to register students,
• to volunteer to teach or assist,
• donate money for snacks,
• if you have questions.
Items needed:
Old jeans (all sizes) Old t-shirts (small sizes)
Old magazines Empty and rinsed juice bags
Bars of soap Scrap fleece material
“O” cereal (ex. Cheerios or generic “o” shaped)
Netting/ tulle Sequins/ buttons
Craft foam Fabric glue Fabric markers
Craft paint 9-in plastic cups
Community Coffee
Thursday, June 16, 9:00 – 11:00
At Bethlehem
Invite your friends for coffee.
Southeastern Iowa Synod Assembles
Six members from Bethlehem and St. Mark’s attended the Southeastern Iowa Synod Assembly in Coralville on May 20 – 21. Attending were Pastor Keith Larson and AIM Barb Tobiason, Carol Pence and Melissa Antcliff (SMLC) and Tim Thiede and Deanne Bennett (BLC).
Special guest at the Assembly included newly-elected Bishop Charles Mjema and his wife, Pastor Nahana Mjema of the Pare Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania, our companion synod. A joint agreement and plan for recommitment for our companion synods was signed together by the Bishop Mjema and Southeastern Iowa Synod Bishop Michael Burke.
The assembly was a time for worship, Bible study, business and fellowship. St. Mark’s was recognized in a video as a congregation celebrating a special anniversary this year (150). Among resolutions considered, the Assembly asked congregations and individuals of the Southeastern Iowa Synod to work with schools, youth and other organization to support efforts to combat bullying, harassment and other related violence in schools.
Participants heard stirring sermons by the Rev. Rafael Malpica Padilla, Director of ELCA Global Missions, and by the Rev. Mike Householder, pastor of Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines. Pastor Malpica Padilla challenged the Assembly to find ways to care for the poor and marginalized of society. Pastor Householder passionately urged everyone to be evangelists, sharing the much-needed love of Christ with others.
Bethlehem/ St. Mark folks also appreciated being able to see the whole church in action and that the church is larger than we see in our congregations, week in and week out.
Ice Cream Social
Sunday, June 26- 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.
At Bethlehem
Invite your friends and neighbors
June Birthdays
1 Keith Larson
2 Don Long
5 Kelly Doll
6 Alex McChesney
7 Joan Clapp
8 Al Small, Courtney Current
9 Zachary McChesney
10 Sophia Coates
12 Brandon Moore
14 Lola DeMoss, Roger Kleppe
17 Katie Thompson
20 Tim Thiede
21 Robert Feuss
22 Ron Christiansen
23 Cassandra Novak
24 Jimmy Hicks
25 Stacey Current
27 Mike Paarmann
28 Paul Kleinsmith, Heather Moore
29 Mick Sheldon
June Anniversaries
4 Deanne and Clint Bennett
7 Kelly and Al Schroeder
9 Kathy and Lary Becker
Kathy and Kirk Snyder
11 Rosemary and Tom Stoll
15 Connie and Roger Kleppe
17 Erin and Nick Novak
19 Marcia and Paul Kleinsmith
22 Barb and Alan Small
26 Lynn and Tim Thiede
27 Pat and Bob Hendrickson
Barb’s Message – Reflections on Synod Assembly
Going to Synod Assembly is always a rewarding experience. Every year, without fail, about two weeks before a scheduled assembly, I stew and fret about all the things that I have to do, work-related, telling myself that I don’t have time to take off the time for Synod Assembly. And every year, I am refreshed and rejuvenated and re-committed by the experience of Synod Assembly.
Worship has a primary place at assembly. Coming from small churches, it is awesome to worship with over 300 people. In addition to worship, frequent prayer, Bible study, hymn singing brought up often throughout the assembly helps us remain Christ-centered in all that we do; and in any church gathering, the focus must be on the One whose mission we carry out.
I used to be involved in the synod’s work, so I am biased, but I never fail to be impressed by those who are called to serve in our synod offices and the programs in which the synod is involved. The people who work or volunteer on the synod level are some of the best. Our synod truly is there for us, helping congregations do the ministry we are called to do. This year it was fun to have St. Mark’s recognized for their 150 years of ministry. Also, our synod reaches out to carry out the mission of Christ, not only locally, but “to the ends of the earth.” To see all the programs that our synod promotes for social ministry, here and around the world is impressive.
It is humbling to look around at all the voting members at our Synod Assembly gathering and see the dedication of the people. They are there because they really take seriously their call to do Christ’s work. There are opportunities to meet and visit with member of other congregations in our synod and find out what excites and frustrates them about being the Church. In all the years that I have gone, a real pleasure for me is getting to know our own voting members better, in a different setting than Sunday morning worship.
I have to say that this year, especially, I appreciated the infusion of humor into the assembly. I truly believe that in any type of work, you need to be able to occasionally have fun and laugh. Bishop Burke began the proceedings with a video showing him and several youth who were trying to update the Bishop technology-wise. It was very clever and set a good mood for the assembly.
It is very humbling to see God’s Holy Spirit working, and Synod Assembly is a great place to see the Spirit doing what the Spirit does. At Synod Assembly, we truly are the Body of Christ. For our time together we become the hands, eyes, heart, and mouth of Christ. I would love for each of you in our congregations to have this experience at some point in your faith journey.
Worship Assistants
Greeters: Scott Doll, Stella Franck
Ushers: Pat Hendrickson, Jessica Ihns
Lectors:
5- Madge White 19- Stella Franck
12- Deanne Bennett 26- Cyndi Hartley
Acolytes: 5- Jenna Holtz
12- Halie Gruenwald 19- Hannah Gruenwald
Communion Servers:
5- Rochelle Busch, Kelly Doll
12- Pat Hansen, Ron Christiansen
19- Elenor Bentrott, Eleanor Sheldon
Altar Care: Eleanor Sheldon, Madge White
Bread Maker: Connie Kleppe
Tellers: Joan Kleppe, Jone Paarmann
Fellowship Servers:
5 - Jone P., Dawn Suthers, Evelyn Petersen
12- Ellen P., Jill S., Betty R., Eleanor Sheldon
19 - Father’s Day NO Fellowship
26- Ice Cream Social NO Fellowship
BWELCA Hilites
Notes to Fellowship Workers:
+ Please use the “fair trade” fellowship coffee located in the plastic tub in the fellowship cupboard. It is specially made for percolators.
+ Please soak the stem from the coffee pot you have used in the marked vinegar bottle on the counter (while you are serving). Wash as usual during clean up. We have had a lot of problems with hard water clogging, and we hope this will take care of it.
New this year at VBS, we will be taking a special “noisy” collection on Sunday, June 5 for the food committee to purchase food needed to follow the theme for the week.
Community Coffee: You are invited to the Community Coffee hosted by the BWELCA Board on Thursday, June 16 from 9-11 a.m. Invite your family, friends and neighbors for a morning of great food and fellowship.
Council Meets
Bethlehem Congregation Council met for the regular monthly meeting on May 17. In business, they:
• noted new ceiling tiles had been placed in the narthex and will purchase new lights and complete caulking of cracks during the summer;
• heard Pastor periodically offers learning opportunities for students and parents when families wish to have their children begin communing;
• decided there will be opportunities in July and August for individuals to meet with Council members if they have concerns about pastoral housing issues;
• decided not to pursue an offer to purchase a 14’ x 100’ piece of property west of the church from the congregation;
• Heard the following Treasurer’s report:
Balance 3/31/11 $13,689.95
April Income $ 5,595.63
April Expenses $ 8,536.58
Balance 4/30/11 $10,790.00
Member Giving Needed Monthly $6000.00
Amount Received in March $5595.63
March Shortfall $ 405.00
Shortfall to Date – 2011 $2883.00
Healthy Pastors Mean Savings
Last month, Pastor Larson reflected on wellness and wholeness and mentioned that the ELCA Board of Pensions had an emphasis on wellness. As part of that emphasis all persons on the ELCA medical plan are urged to take a free on-line health assessment sponsored by Mayo Clinic. If a minimum of 65% of the plan members in a synod completed the assessment before the deadline, every congregation in the synod could receive a discount. For 3 years now, pastor has completed his assessment, but this year the Southeastern Iowa Synod met the 65% threshold. As a result, Bethlehem has earned a 2% discount on contributions to the ELCA health plan for 2011.
“Spring” Festivals Late This Year
The festivals of Pentecost, usually celebrated in May do not occur until mid-June this year because Easter was so late. Pentecost (50 days after Easter) will be celebrated on June 12. Holy Trinity Sunday is celebrated a week later on June 19. Holy Communion is celebrated on these two important church-year festivals as well as on the first Sunday of the month.
Masko Update
Former Intern Matt Masko graduated from Wartburg Seminary on May 15. He had been assigned to the Upstate New York Synod and met the Bishop there and learned of some prospective congregations where he might interview. In the meantime Meganne interviewed, was offered and accepted a position on the faculty of the University of North Dakota. The Bishops of Upstate New York and Eastern North Dakota have been helpful and Matt’s been reassigned to Eastern North Dakota. Meganne is still working on her doctoral dissertation at the University of Iowa where she hopes to complete her doctorate soon. She finished her dissertation early, but her committee was, well, not particularly accommodating. They will be moving to North Dakota in August after they travel with some Wartburg Seminary faculty to Guyana in July.
Ice Cream Social
The Ice Cream Social will be held Sunday, June 26 from 4-7 p.m. at the church. Invite your family, friends, and neighbors. Sign up sheet will be in the back of the church. We appreciate your sharing of food, serving skills and other assistance with this fun event.
Next Board Meeting: Tuesday July 5 at 6 PM
Circle Meetings for June 9, 7:00 PM, Eve at Eleanor Sheldon’s with Darlene C. as leader. June 11: 9 AM, Bethlehem in conference room with Connie Kleppe at hostess and leader.
College Scholarships
Scholarship applications for all Bethlehem college students are available in the church office. All students enrolled in the 2011 - 2012 school term must complete an application and return it to the office on or before August 1, 2011. Students must be confirmed members of Bethlehem and must maintain academic eligibility. Scholarship money will be sent directly to your college at the beginning of each semester.
Note to those who will be high school seniors in the fall – if you anticipate that you might graduate early and begin college early, you should apply for a scholarship before August 1, 2011.
Summer Worship Times
8:30 a.m. at Bethlehem
9:45 a.m. at St. Mark
Pastor Keith Larson
Office Phone 678-2301
Home Phone 563-652-2599
Anywhere, anytime 563-447-0652
pastor@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Pastoral Associate Barb Tobiason
Office Phone 826-2761
Home Phone 563-487-2116
AIM@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Office Secretary Deanne Bennett
Church Phone 678-2301
secretary@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Parish Nurse Carm Schneider
Office Hours 9:00 a.m. -10:30 a.m. Tues
Phone 678-2302
Office Hours
Pastor Keith is in the office most mornings
Monday – Thursday 9:30 a.m. – Noon
and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
If you need to enter the church and do not have a key, always call ahead to be certain he or someone is here.
Volume 9, Issue 6
June 2011
Summer Worship Times
During the summer months of June, July, and August, starting June 5, the schedule is:
Worship at Bethlehem: 8:30 a.m.
Worship at St. Mark’s: 9:45 a.m.
Unity Sunday, when we celebrate our common ministries at Bethlehem and St. Mark, will be held at the end of the summer.
Lost Nation Vacation Bible School
June 6 - 10
At Union Presbyterian
Call the office:
• to register students,
• to volunteer to teach or assist,
• donate money for snacks,
• if you have questions.
Items needed:
Old jeans (all sizes) Old t-shirts (small sizes)
Old magazines Empty and rinsed juice bags
Bars of soap Scrap fleece material
“O” cereal (ex. Cheerios or generic “o” shaped)
Netting/ tulle Sequins/ buttons
Craft foam Fabric glue Fabric markers
Craft paint 9-in plastic cups
Community Coffee
Thursday, June 16, 9:00 – 11:00
At Bethlehem
Invite your friends for coffee.
Southeastern Iowa Synod Assembles
Six members from Bethlehem and St. Mark’s attended the Southeastern Iowa Synod Assembly in Coralville on May 20 – 21. Attending were Pastor Keith Larson and AIM Barb Tobiason, Carol Pence and Melissa Antcliff (SMLC) and Tim Thiede and Deanne Bennett (BLC).
Special guest at the Assembly included newly-elected Bishop Charles Mjema and his wife, Pastor Nahana Mjema of the Pare Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania, our companion synod. A joint agreement and plan for recommitment for our companion synods was signed together by the Bishop Mjema and Southeastern Iowa Synod Bishop Michael Burke.
The assembly was a time for worship, Bible study, business and fellowship. St. Mark’s was recognized in a video as a congregation celebrating a special anniversary this year (150). Among resolutions considered, the Assembly asked congregations and individuals of the Southeastern Iowa Synod to work with schools, youth and other organization to support efforts to combat bullying, harassment and other related violence in schools.
Participants heard stirring sermons by the Rev. Rafael Malpica Padilla, Director of ELCA Global Missions, and by the Rev. Mike Householder, pastor of Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines. Pastor Malpica Padilla challenged the Assembly to find ways to care for the poor and marginalized of society. Pastor Householder passionately urged everyone to be evangelists, sharing the much-needed love of Christ with others.
Bethlehem/ St. Mark folks also appreciated being able to see the whole church in action and that the church is larger than we see in our congregations, week in and week out.
Ice Cream Social
Sunday, June 26- 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.
At Bethlehem
Invite your friends and neighbors
June Birthdays
1 Keith Larson
2 Don Long
5 Kelly Doll
6 Alex McChesney
7 Joan Clapp
8 Al Small, Courtney Current
9 Zachary McChesney
10 Sophia Coates
12 Brandon Moore
14 Lola DeMoss, Roger Kleppe
17 Katie Thompson
20 Tim Thiede
21 Robert Feuss
22 Ron Christiansen
23 Cassandra Novak
24 Jimmy Hicks
25 Stacey Current
27 Mike Paarmann
28 Paul Kleinsmith, Heather Moore
29 Mick Sheldon
June Anniversaries
4 Deanne and Clint Bennett
7 Kelly and Al Schroeder
9 Kathy and Lary Becker
Kathy and Kirk Snyder
11 Rosemary and Tom Stoll
15 Connie and Roger Kleppe
17 Erin and Nick Novak
19 Marcia and Paul Kleinsmith
22 Barb and Alan Small
26 Lynn and Tim Thiede
27 Pat and Bob Hendrickson
Barb’s Message – Reflections on Synod Assembly
Going to Synod Assembly is always a rewarding experience. Every year, without fail, about two weeks before a scheduled assembly, I stew and fret about all the things that I have to do, work-related, telling myself that I don’t have time to take off the time for Synod Assembly. And every year, I am refreshed and rejuvenated and re-committed by the experience of Synod Assembly.
Worship has a primary place at assembly. Coming from small churches, it is awesome to worship with over 300 people. In addition to worship, frequent prayer, Bible study, hymn singing brought up often throughout the assembly helps us remain Christ-centered in all that we do; and in any church gathering, the focus must be on the One whose mission we carry out.
I used to be involved in the synod’s work, so I am biased, but I never fail to be impressed by those who are called to serve in our synod offices and the programs in which the synod is involved. The people who work or volunteer on the synod level are some of the best. Our synod truly is there for us, helping congregations do the ministry we are called to do. This year it was fun to have St. Mark’s recognized for their 150 years of ministry. Also, our synod reaches out to carry out the mission of Christ, not only locally, but “to the ends of the earth.” To see all the programs that our synod promotes for social ministry, here and around the world is impressive.
It is humbling to look around at all the voting members at our Synod Assembly gathering and see the dedication of the people. They are there because they really take seriously their call to do Christ’s work. There are opportunities to meet and visit with member of other congregations in our synod and find out what excites and frustrates them about being the Church. In all the years that I have gone, a real pleasure for me is getting to know our own voting members better, in a different setting than Sunday morning worship.
I have to say that this year, especially, I appreciated the infusion of humor into the assembly. I truly believe that in any type of work, you need to be able to occasionally have fun and laugh. Bishop Burke began the proceedings with a video showing him and several youth who were trying to update the Bishop technology-wise. It was very clever and set a good mood for the assembly.
It is very humbling to see God’s Holy Spirit working, and Synod Assembly is a great place to see the Spirit doing what the Spirit does. At Synod Assembly, we truly are the Body of Christ. For our time together we become the hands, eyes, heart, and mouth of Christ. I would love for each of you in our congregations to have this experience at some point in your faith journey.
Worship Assistants
Greeters: Scott Doll, Stella Franck
Ushers: Pat Hendrickson, Jessica Ihns
Lectors:
5- Madge White 19- Stella Franck
12- Deanne Bennett 26- Cyndi Hartley
Acolytes: 5- Jenna Holtz
12- Halie Gruenwald 19- Hannah Gruenwald
Communion Servers:
5- Rochelle Busch, Kelly Doll
12- Pat Hansen, Ron Christiansen
19- Elenor Bentrott, Eleanor Sheldon
Altar Care: Eleanor Sheldon, Madge White
Bread Maker: Connie Kleppe
Tellers: Joan Kleppe, Jone Paarmann
Fellowship Servers:
5 - Jone P., Dawn Suthers, Evelyn Petersen
12- Ellen P., Jill S., Betty R., Eleanor Sheldon
19 - Father’s Day NO Fellowship
26- Ice Cream Social NO Fellowship
BWELCA Hilites
Notes to Fellowship Workers:
+ Please use the “fair trade” fellowship coffee located in the plastic tub in the fellowship cupboard. It is specially made for percolators.
+ Please soak the stem from the coffee pot you have used in the marked vinegar bottle on the counter (while you are serving). Wash as usual during clean up. We have had a lot of problems with hard water clogging, and we hope this will take care of it.
New this year at VBS, we will be taking a special “noisy” collection on Sunday, June 5 for the food committee to purchase food needed to follow the theme for the week.
Community Coffee: You are invited to the Community Coffee hosted by the BWELCA Board on Thursday, June 16 from 9-11 a.m. Invite your family, friends and neighbors for a morning of great food and fellowship.
Council Meets
Bethlehem Congregation Council met for the regular monthly meeting on May 17. In business, they:
• noted new ceiling tiles had been placed in the narthex and will purchase new lights and complete caulking of cracks during the summer;
• heard Pastor periodically offers learning opportunities for students and parents when families wish to have their children begin communing;
• decided there will be opportunities in July and August for individuals to meet with Council members if they have concerns about pastoral housing issues;
• decided not to pursue an offer to purchase a 14’ x 100’ piece of property west of the church from the congregation;
• Heard the following Treasurer’s report:
Balance 3/31/11 $13,689.95
April Income $ 5,595.63
April Expenses $ 8,536.58
Balance 4/30/11 $10,790.00
Member Giving Needed Monthly $6000.00
Amount Received in March $5595.63
March Shortfall $ 405.00
Shortfall to Date – 2011 $2883.00
Healthy Pastors Mean Savings
Last month, Pastor Larson reflected on wellness and wholeness and mentioned that the ELCA Board of Pensions had an emphasis on wellness. As part of that emphasis all persons on the ELCA medical plan are urged to take a free on-line health assessment sponsored by Mayo Clinic. If a minimum of 65% of the plan members in a synod completed the assessment before the deadline, every congregation in the synod could receive a discount. For 3 years now, pastor has completed his assessment, but this year the Southeastern Iowa Synod met the 65% threshold. As a result, Bethlehem has earned a 2% discount on contributions to the ELCA health plan for 2011.
“Spring” Festivals Late This Year
The festivals of Pentecost, usually celebrated in May do not occur until mid-June this year because Easter was so late. Pentecost (50 days after Easter) will be celebrated on June 12. Holy Trinity Sunday is celebrated a week later on June 19. Holy Communion is celebrated on these two important church-year festivals as well as on the first Sunday of the month.
Masko Update
Former Intern Matt Masko graduated from Wartburg Seminary on May 15. He had been assigned to the Upstate New York Synod and met the Bishop there and learned of some prospective congregations where he might interview. In the meantime Meganne interviewed, was offered and accepted a position on the faculty of the University of North Dakota. The Bishops of Upstate New York and Eastern North Dakota have been helpful and Matt’s been reassigned to Eastern North Dakota. Meganne is still working on her doctoral dissertation at the University of Iowa where she hopes to complete her doctorate soon. She finished her dissertation early, but her committee was, well, not particularly accommodating. They will be moving to North Dakota in August after they travel with some Wartburg Seminary faculty to Guyana in July.
Ice Cream Social
The Ice Cream Social will be held Sunday, June 26 from 4-7 p.m. at the church. Invite your family, friends, and neighbors. Sign up sheet will be in the back of the church. We appreciate your sharing of food, serving skills and other assistance with this fun event.
Next Board Meeting: Tuesday July 5 at 6 PM
Circle Meetings for June 9, 7:00 PM, Eve at Eleanor Sheldon’s with Darlene C. as leader. June 11: 9 AM, Bethlehem in conference room with Connie Kleppe at hostess and leader.
College Scholarships
Scholarship applications for all Bethlehem college students are available in the church office. All students enrolled in the 2011 - 2012 school term must complete an application and return it to the office on or before August 1, 2011. Students must be confirmed members of Bethlehem and must maintain academic eligibility. Scholarship money will be sent directly to your college at the beginning of each semester.
Note to those who will be high school seniors in the fall – if you anticipate that you might graduate early and begin college early, you should apply for a scholarship before August 1, 2011.
Summer Worship Times
8:30 a.m. at Bethlehem
9:45 a.m. at St. Mark
Pastor Keith Larson
Office Phone 678-2301
Home Phone 563-652-2599
Anywhere, anytime 563-447-0652
pastor@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Pastoral Associate Barb Tobiason
Office Phone 826-2761
Home Phone 563-487-2116
AIM@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Office Secretary Deanne Bennett
Church Phone 678-2301
secretary@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Parish Nurse Carm Schneider
Office Hours 9:00 a.m. -10:30 a.m. Tues
Phone 678-2302
Office Hours
Pastor Keith is in the office most mornings
Monday – Thursday 9:30 a.m. – Noon
and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
If you need to enter the church and do not have a key, always call ahead to be certain he or someone is here.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
The Bethlehem Star
The Bethlehem Star
Volume 10, Issue 5 May 2011
Synod to Meet in Assembly
The Southeastern Iowa Synod will meet in Annual Assembly on May 20 – 21 in Coralville. Voting members from Bethlehem are Pastor Keith Larson and Associate in Ministry Barb Tobiason, Tim Thiede, and Deanne Bennett.
Each spring, synods gather in assembly to uplift and celebrate ministries and address issues facing the leaders, congregations, and agencies within the synod. At the 2011 Synod Assembly, voting members will conduct official business of the synod - approve compensation guidelines, adopt a budget, address resolutions, and elect members to Synod Council.
The Assembly is this synod’s highest legislative authority. But it is so much more. It is a cherished time when church members gather from across the synod around the means of grace, to reconnect with friends, meet new ones, and share what it means to be the body of Christ. There will be opportunity to spend time in biblical reflection and gather with folks from other congregations in small group discussion, as well as participate in a variety of forums with topics related to the church’s life together.
Lost Nation Vacation Bible School
June 6 – 10
At Union Presbyterian
Call the office:
• to register students,
• to volunteer to teach or assist,
• bring treats,
• if you have questions
Wartburg Seminary Graduation
Sunday, May 15
3:00 p.m.
St. Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church
60 South Algona Street, Dubuque
Reception at Wartburg Seminary following
333 Wartburg Place
(maps on the board)
Former Intern at Bethlehem and St. Mark’s, Matt Masko will be graduating from Wartburg Seminary on May 15. He has been assigned to Upstate New York Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Matt’s wife, Meganne graduates the same weekend with a Ph.D. in speech therapy.
Greetings may be sent to: Matt Masko; 1955 Pulpit Rock Lane; Dubuque, Iowa 52003.
People! Look Up!
“People, Look East” is an Advent hymn in Evangelical Lutheran Worship. However, if you haven’t noticed, next time you come into the church building, “look up”. Several ceiling tile were seriously damaged and stained when snow blew in during the “Blizzard of 2011” and were temporarily replaced. A few “new” tiles immediately showed the wear, tear, and grime of the rest of the narthex ceiling tiles. All were replaced. Likewise, the water stains on the ceiling of the nave have been covered over and parts of the ceiling repainted. Special thanks to John Alden for his fine work.
College Scholarships
Scholarship applications for all Bethlehem college students are available in the church office. All students enrolled in the 2011 - 2012 school term must complete an application and return it to the office on or before August 1, 2011. Students must be confirmed members of Bethlehem and must maintain academic eligibility. Scholarship money will be sent directly to your college at the beginning of each semester.
Note to those who will be high school seniors in August – if you anticipate that you might graduate early and begin college early, you should apply for a scholarship before August 1, 2011.
Spring Cleaning?
Local families – one new to the community – need some of the following items:
Single bed youth bed bedding for youth bed
Lounge or living room chairs washer dryer
Call the office if you have any of these items you might need to be rid of.
Baptisms and New Members Highlight Easter Worship
5 children were baptized and 3 adults were received as new members during worship on Easter day. Brendon, Teddy and Madilyn Koch, children of Amanda and Dean Koch were baptized and Amanda was received as a new member by transfer from First Lutheran, Maquoketa. Dalton and Dillon Bickford, children of Katie and Zach Bauer and Cory Bickford were baptized and Katie and Zach were received by Affirmation of Baptism.
Council Highlights
Bethlehem Congregation Council met for its regular meeting on April 12. In business the Council:
• opened bids for lawn mowing and awarded the contract for mowing to Mackenzie Petersen;
• accepted John Alden’s estimate and gave approval for replacing ceiling tile in narthex
• reviewed results from the financial sustainability survey, especially with regards to the option of looking into finding a third congregation with which to yoke. Pastor explained that yoking is best achieved when a need to do so is perceived by all parties simultaneously and there do not seem to be any other congregations looking for yoking at this time, except possibly Ascension, Goose Lake. Such a yoking would present quite a few challenges, particularly in light the retirement of AIM Barb in the upcoming future;
• decided to meet on Tuesday, May 17 so several Council members can attend a stewardship resource event on May 10 at 6:30 at St. John Lutheran, Grand Mound (Bliedhorn);
• heard the following Treasurer’s report:
Balance 2/28/11 $18,056.91
March Income 5470.02
March Expenses 9836.98
Balance 3/31/11 $13,689.95
Member Giving Needed Monthly $6000.00
Amount Received in March $5470.00
March Shortfall $ 530.00
Shortfall to Date – 2011 $2478.00
Worship Assistants
Greeters: Elenor Bentrott, Darlene Christiansen
Ushers: Diana Ihns, Clay Ketchum
Lectors
1- Jone Paarmann
8- Ellen Pithan
15- Pat Hendrickson
22- Emma Thiede
29- Tim Thiede
Communion Servers:
1- Tim Thiede, Deanne Bennett
15- Pat Hendrickson, Corynn Bennett
Acolytes:
1- Halie Gruenwald
15- Hannah Gruenwald
29- Courtney Current
Altar Care: Corynn and Deanne Bennett
Bread Maker: Connie Kleppe
Tellers: Brent Ihns, Connie Kleppe
Fellowship Servers:
1 - Joyce Feuss, Kathy Duffey, Donna Dosland
8- No Fellowship Mother’s Day
15- Elenor Bentrott, Lola Berner, Pat Hendrickson
22 - Diana Ihns, Becky Petersen, Corynn Bennett
29 - Connie Kleppe, Joan Kleppe, Lynda
Humphreys, Cyndi Hartley
BWELCA Hilites
12 woman from SE IA Synod took a van trip to LWR and Global Health Warehouses in Minneapolis MN. Deanne Bennett from Bethlehem was one of the adventurers. Will display pictures when possible.
Thank you to everyone who was instrumental in putting together, packing and delivering quilts and layettes. They were safely delivered to Cedar Rapids on April 16.
Upcoming Events:
Guys and Dolls: Monday May 2 at 11:00 a.m. with Eve as hostess.
Tuesday May 3: BWELCA Bible Study Leaders at 5:00 p.m. Followed by BWELCA Board meeting at 6:00 p.m.
Community Coffee, Thursday June 16 at 9 AM.
Ice Cream Social, Sunday June 26
Anyone interested in helping with Vacation Bible School in any way can contact Susan Drury
at 678-2152. (June 6 – 10 at UPC)
The People of God: Unity in the Midst of Diversity
Witnessing and Evangelism
May Circle Meetings
Eve – Thursday, May 12 at 7:00 p.m.
Hostess: Ann Bomia Leader: Rochelle Busch
Bethlehem - Saturday, May 14 at 9:00 a.m.
in the conference room
Diana Ihns (hostess & leader)
All women are invited to attend!
Barb’s Newsletter Message
This year, in our confirmation class, we have had some very conscientious sermon note-takers. They have been especially good at asking the tough questions. I thought all of you would find their questions interesting. They are questions we all ask at one time or another. The answers are mine, similar to how I answered them for the confirmands.
1. When do we become God’s family?
We become a child of God immediately. Jeremiah wrote, “Now the word of the Lord came to me saying, ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you, (Jeremiah 1:4-5).’” As Christians, we are baptized into Christ and become members of the family of believers, but we are God’s children from birth.
2. Why doesn’t God answer all prayers?
This question was asked by almost every confirmation student. Jesus tells us all that God wants us to pray and that God promises to listen to our prayers. God knows our concerns; prayer validates those concerns. It may not seem like God answers prayer, particularly when we have specific requests, and God’s answers to our prayers are not exactly what we ask for. God knows the big picture and how we fit into the scheme of things. God answers prayer in the way God sees best in the long run, for all concerned.
3. Will the world end in 2012?
There is a lot of speculation about this right now, because we are nearing that time. I don’t know all the background for this, but it seems the Mayan’s had a sophisticated calendar system, and it ends in 2012. Perhaps, for them, they couldn’t imagine life going on that long. There have always been folks trying to predict the end times. The earliest Christians thought that when Jesus spoke of the end-times, it would be within their life-time. We now understand Jesus’ words differently because that didn’t happen. There were those that thought the new millennium would be the end. We are still here. The truth is we don’t know when the end-times will be. The best thing is not to worry about the end time over which is entirely in God’s hands, and to focus on living our lives as God would have us live, fully, each day.
4. Why did God name his son, Jesus?
When God’s angel came to Joseph to announce Jesus’ conception, Matthew tell us, “She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from all their sins,” (Matthew 1:21). Joseph did name him Jesus, and Jesus did become the savior of the world.
Thanks to the confirmands for making us all think about our faith and why we believe as we do.
May Birthdays
3 Stella Franck, Claire Dosland
6 Scott Doll
8 Emily Horst
9 Chad Christiansen
11 Bryant Barnett
13 Joan Von Sprecken
14 Charlie Horst, TJ Benke
15 Betty Hainstock
16 Dylan Rickels, Katie Snyder
17 Mikayla Dosland
19 Marlene Hicks
20 Marlene Feuss, Kody Franck
24 Ron Adrian, Connie Kleppe, Olivia Coates
25 Pat Hendrickson
26 Pauline Schoop, Nathanial Dosland
28 Cary Gruenwald
May Anniversaries
11 Kari and Kory Rigg
26 Lola and Richard DeMoss
27 Kathy and Dennis Hute
28 Lisa and Tom Gruenwald
Pastor Keith Larson
Office Phone 678-2301
Home Phone 563-652-2599
Anywhere, anytime 563-447-0652
pastor@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Pastoral Associate Barb Tobiason
Office Phone 826-2761
Home Phone 563-487-2116
AIM@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Office Secretary Deanne Bennett
Church Phone 678-2301
secretary@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Parish Nurse Carm Schneider
Office Hours 9:00 a.m. -10:30 a.m. Tues
Phone 678-2302
Sunday Schedule
Worship 9:00 a.m.
Fellowship 10:00 a.m..
Office Hours
Pastor Keith is in the office most mornings
Monday – Thursday 9:30 a.m. – Noon
and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
If you need to enter the church and do not have a key, always call ahead to be certain he or someone is here.
Volume 10, Issue 5 May 2011
Synod to Meet in Assembly
The Southeastern Iowa Synod will meet in Annual Assembly on May 20 – 21 in Coralville. Voting members from Bethlehem are Pastor Keith Larson and Associate in Ministry Barb Tobiason, Tim Thiede, and Deanne Bennett.
Each spring, synods gather in assembly to uplift and celebrate ministries and address issues facing the leaders, congregations, and agencies within the synod. At the 2011 Synod Assembly, voting members will conduct official business of the synod - approve compensation guidelines, adopt a budget, address resolutions, and elect members to Synod Council.
The Assembly is this synod’s highest legislative authority. But it is so much more. It is a cherished time when church members gather from across the synod around the means of grace, to reconnect with friends, meet new ones, and share what it means to be the body of Christ. There will be opportunity to spend time in biblical reflection and gather with folks from other congregations in small group discussion, as well as participate in a variety of forums with topics related to the church’s life together.
Lost Nation Vacation Bible School
June 6 – 10
At Union Presbyterian
Call the office:
• to register students,
• to volunteer to teach or assist,
• bring treats,
• if you have questions
Wartburg Seminary Graduation
Sunday, May 15
3:00 p.m.
St. Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church
60 South Algona Street, Dubuque
Reception at Wartburg Seminary following
333 Wartburg Place
(maps on the board)
Former Intern at Bethlehem and St. Mark’s, Matt Masko will be graduating from Wartburg Seminary on May 15. He has been assigned to Upstate New York Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. Matt’s wife, Meganne graduates the same weekend with a Ph.D. in speech therapy.
Greetings may be sent to: Matt Masko; 1955 Pulpit Rock Lane; Dubuque, Iowa 52003.
People! Look Up!
“People, Look East” is an Advent hymn in Evangelical Lutheran Worship. However, if you haven’t noticed, next time you come into the church building, “look up”. Several ceiling tile were seriously damaged and stained when snow blew in during the “Blizzard of 2011” and were temporarily replaced. A few “new” tiles immediately showed the wear, tear, and grime of the rest of the narthex ceiling tiles. All were replaced. Likewise, the water stains on the ceiling of the nave have been covered over and parts of the ceiling repainted. Special thanks to John Alden for his fine work.
College Scholarships
Scholarship applications for all Bethlehem college students are available in the church office. All students enrolled in the 2011 - 2012 school term must complete an application and return it to the office on or before August 1, 2011. Students must be confirmed members of Bethlehem and must maintain academic eligibility. Scholarship money will be sent directly to your college at the beginning of each semester.
Note to those who will be high school seniors in August – if you anticipate that you might graduate early and begin college early, you should apply for a scholarship before August 1, 2011.
Spring Cleaning?
Local families – one new to the community – need some of the following items:
Single bed youth bed bedding for youth bed
Lounge or living room chairs washer dryer
Call the office if you have any of these items you might need to be rid of.
Baptisms and New Members Highlight Easter Worship
5 children were baptized and 3 adults were received as new members during worship on Easter day. Brendon, Teddy and Madilyn Koch, children of Amanda and Dean Koch were baptized and Amanda was received as a new member by transfer from First Lutheran, Maquoketa. Dalton and Dillon Bickford, children of Katie and Zach Bauer and Cory Bickford were baptized and Katie and Zach were received by Affirmation of Baptism.
Council Highlights
Bethlehem Congregation Council met for its regular meeting on April 12. In business the Council:
• opened bids for lawn mowing and awarded the contract for mowing to Mackenzie Petersen;
• accepted John Alden’s estimate and gave approval for replacing ceiling tile in narthex
• reviewed results from the financial sustainability survey, especially with regards to the option of looking into finding a third congregation with which to yoke. Pastor explained that yoking is best achieved when a need to do so is perceived by all parties simultaneously and there do not seem to be any other congregations looking for yoking at this time, except possibly Ascension, Goose Lake. Such a yoking would present quite a few challenges, particularly in light the retirement of AIM Barb in the upcoming future;
• decided to meet on Tuesday, May 17 so several Council members can attend a stewardship resource event on May 10 at 6:30 at St. John Lutheran, Grand Mound (Bliedhorn);
• heard the following Treasurer’s report:
Balance 2/28/11 $18,056.91
March Income 5470.02
March Expenses 9836.98
Balance 3/31/11 $13,689.95
Member Giving Needed Monthly $6000.00
Amount Received in March $5470.00
March Shortfall $ 530.00
Shortfall to Date – 2011 $2478.00
Worship Assistants
Greeters: Elenor Bentrott, Darlene Christiansen
Ushers: Diana Ihns, Clay Ketchum
Lectors
1- Jone Paarmann
8- Ellen Pithan
15- Pat Hendrickson
22- Emma Thiede
29- Tim Thiede
Communion Servers:
1- Tim Thiede, Deanne Bennett
15- Pat Hendrickson, Corynn Bennett
Acolytes:
1- Halie Gruenwald
15- Hannah Gruenwald
29- Courtney Current
Altar Care: Corynn and Deanne Bennett
Bread Maker: Connie Kleppe
Tellers: Brent Ihns, Connie Kleppe
Fellowship Servers:
1 - Joyce Feuss, Kathy Duffey, Donna Dosland
8- No Fellowship Mother’s Day
15- Elenor Bentrott, Lola Berner, Pat Hendrickson
22 - Diana Ihns, Becky Petersen, Corynn Bennett
29 - Connie Kleppe, Joan Kleppe, Lynda
Humphreys, Cyndi Hartley
BWELCA Hilites
12 woman from SE IA Synod took a van trip to LWR and Global Health Warehouses in Minneapolis MN. Deanne Bennett from Bethlehem was one of the adventurers. Will display pictures when possible.
Thank you to everyone who was instrumental in putting together, packing and delivering quilts and layettes. They were safely delivered to Cedar Rapids on April 16.
Upcoming Events:
Guys and Dolls: Monday May 2 at 11:00 a.m. with Eve as hostess.
Tuesday May 3: BWELCA Bible Study Leaders at 5:00 p.m. Followed by BWELCA Board meeting at 6:00 p.m.
Community Coffee, Thursday June 16 at 9 AM.
Ice Cream Social, Sunday June 26
Anyone interested in helping with Vacation Bible School in any way can contact Susan Drury
at 678-2152. (June 6 – 10 at UPC)
The People of God: Unity in the Midst of Diversity
Witnessing and Evangelism
May Circle Meetings
Eve – Thursday, May 12 at 7:00 p.m.
Hostess: Ann Bomia Leader: Rochelle Busch
Bethlehem - Saturday, May 14 at 9:00 a.m.
in the conference room
Diana Ihns (hostess & leader)
All women are invited to attend!
Barb’s Newsletter Message
This year, in our confirmation class, we have had some very conscientious sermon note-takers. They have been especially good at asking the tough questions. I thought all of you would find their questions interesting. They are questions we all ask at one time or another. The answers are mine, similar to how I answered them for the confirmands.
1. When do we become God’s family?
We become a child of God immediately. Jeremiah wrote, “Now the word of the Lord came to me saying, ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you, (Jeremiah 1:4-5).’” As Christians, we are baptized into Christ and become members of the family of believers, but we are God’s children from birth.
2. Why doesn’t God answer all prayers?
This question was asked by almost every confirmation student. Jesus tells us all that God wants us to pray and that God promises to listen to our prayers. God knows our concerns; prayer validates those concerns. It may not seem like God answers prayer, particularly when we have specific requests, and God’s answers to our prayers are not exactly what we ask for. God knows the big picture and how we fit into the scheme of things. God answers prayer in the way God sees best in the long run, for all concerned.
3. Will the world end in 2012?
There is a lot of speculation about this right now, because we are nearing that time. I don’t know all the background for this, but it seems the Mayan’s had a sophisticated calendar system, and it ends in 2012. Perhaps, for them, they couldn’t imagine life going on that long. There have always been folks trying to predict the end times. The earliest Christians thought that when Jesus spoke of the end-times, it would be within their life-time. We now understand Jesus’ words differently because that didn’t happen. There were those that thought the new millennium would be the end. We are still here. The truth is we don’t know when the end-times will be. The best thing is not to worry about the end time over which is entirely in God’s hands, and to focus on living our lives as God would have us live, fully, each day.
4. Why did God name his son, Jesus?
When God’s angel came to Joseph to announce Jesus’ conception, Matthew tell us, “She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from all their sins,” (Matthew 1:21). Joseph did name him Jesus, and Jesus did become the savior of the world.
Thanks to the confirmands for making us all think about our faith and why we believe as we do.
May Birthdays
3 Stella Franck, Claire Dosland
6 Scott Doll
8 Emily Horst
9 Chad Christiansen
11 Bryant Barnett
13 Joan Von Sprecken
14 Charlie Horst, TJ Benke
15 Betty Hainstock
16 Dylan Rickels, Katie Snyder
17 Mikayla Dosland
19 Marlene Hicks
20 Marlene Feuss, Kody Franck
24 Ron Adrian, Connie Kleppe, Olivia Coates
25 Pat Hendrickson
26 Pauline Schoop, Nathanial Dosland
28 Cary Gruenwald
May Anniversaries
11 Kari and Kory Rigg
26 Lola and Richard DeMoss
27 Kathy and Dennis Hute
28 Lisa and Tom Gruenwald
Pastor Keith Larson
Office Phone 678-2301
Home Phone 563-652-2599
Anywhere, anytime 563-447-0652
pastor@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Pastoral Associate Barb Tobiason
Office Phone 826-2761
Home Phone 563-487-2116
AIM@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Office Secretary Deanne Bennett
Church Phone 678-2301
secretary@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Parish Nurse Carm Schneider
Office Hours 9:00 a.m. -10:30 a.m. Tues
Phone 678-2302
Sunday Schedule
Worship 9:00 a.m.
Fellowship 10:00 a.m..
Office Hours
Pastor Keith is in the office most mornings
Monday – Thursday 9:30 a.m. – Noon
and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
If you need to enter the church and do not have a key, always call ahead to be certain he or someone is here.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
The Bethlehem Star
Volume 10, Issue 4 April 2011
Midweek Soup, Learning and Worship
Apr 6 “To Be God’s … Listening Ear” Listening
Apr 13 “Come All You People” Inviting
Lawn Mower Needed
Bethlehem needs someone to regularly mow and trim the church and parsonage lawn during the summer, commencing soon, until the grass quits growing in the fall. This job is to be done on an “as needed” basis, usually at least weekly, so that when possible it looks its best on weekends or for other special events at church. Persons interested in the job for 2011, should submit sealed written bids to the church office before noon on Monday, April 11. Preference will go to Bethlehem members.
10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
Crafts –Bake Sale
Creamed Turkey and Maidrite Lunch
Adults $5.00 - Children $2.00
Carryouts Available
Holy Week Worship
Sunday of the Passion , April 17
Bethlehem 9:00 a.m. St. Mark 10:30 a.m.
We join the crowds of Jerusalem and welcome Jesus as king by waving our palm branches and singing “Hosanna.” But before the day is over we join the fickle crowd, shouting, “Crucify him!”
Maundy Thursday, April 21
St. Mark 10:30 a.m. Bethlehem 7:00 p.m.
We are with the disciples in the upper room as Jesus takes on the role of the servant and washes the feet of the disciples and then institutes Holy Communion. As the evening ends, we are reminded of Jesus being led away, beaten and stripped, as the altar and sanctuary are stripped of color or decoration. The service does not end but continues the next night.
Good Friday, April 22
St. Mark 10:30 a.m.
We walk with Jesus on the way to the cross and stop along the way, pausing to reflect at some of the traditional “stations”.
Bethlehem 7:00 p.m.
We enter and leave worship in silence and we sit in a bare stark church even as the disciples sat on a stark bare hill. We ponder the mystery of God’s love revealed in the cross – a tool of execution.
The Resurrection of Our Lord, April 24
St. Mark 6:30 a.m. Bethlehem 9:00 a.m.
The grave is empty. Christ is risen! We raise our voices and sing ““Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!”
An Easter breakfast follows worship at St. Mark.
A continental breakfast precedes worship at Bethlehem at 8:00 a.m.
Lost Nation Christian Health Ministry
Presents an Informational Program on
Cancer Prevention
Monday, April 25, 6:30 p.m.
Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church
Spring Clean-Up
Help get our church and grounds freshened up for Easter, on Sunday, April 3 following worship. Wear your work clothes to worship and help us spruce things up around Bethlehem. Cleaning supplies will be provided. Bring your rake, trimmers, buckets and old rags! Pizza is provided at lunchtime to all who work. Bring the whole family and share in this work/ fun day!
EWALU Bible Camp News
Register Now for Summer Camp!
It’s time to register for summer camp at Ewalu. Brochures and registration forms are available on the entrance table. BWELCA provides $100.00. Anyone who needs assistance with the cost of camp should talk to pastor, and any individuals desiring to make available funds for campers should also talk to pastor.
Spring Work Weekend
Ewalu spring work weekend will be April 29 -30. Many projects to help get the camp cleaned up and ready for spring will be undertaken. Contact Pastor if you would like to ride with him and spend the morning working.
Pastor Re-elected
Pastor Keith Larsson was re-elected to a second three-year term on the Ewalu Board of Directors at its annual meeting on March 19. At the meeting of the Board, he was re-elected for another one-year term as President. 2011 is Ewalu’s 50th Anniversary. Be watching for more news about events. The Board will also begin a national search process for an Executive Director to replace Dale Goodman who will be retiring in 2012.
Council News
Bethlehem Council met for its regular meeting on March 9. In business they:
· Heard that an insurance settlement had been received and authorized John Alden to repaint the stained part of the ceiling and to get estimates for replacing ceiling tiles in the narthex – along with some insulation for the ceiling and foam and caulk for the cracks between the bell tower and the church building;
· Requested that written bids for lawn mowing be turned it to the church office before noon on April 11;
· Authorized pastor to seek two people to be voting members to the Southeastern Iowa Synod Assembly in Coralville on May 20 – 21;
· Heard the following Treasurer’s report:
Balance 1/31/11 $21,502.63
Feb Income 4,052.70
Feb Expenses 7,498.42
Balance 2/28/11 $18,056.91
Member Giving Needed Monthly $6000.00
Amount Received in Feb $4052.00
Shortfall $1948.00
Ushers: Sammi Adler, Enos Ihns
Lectors
3- Brent Ihns
10- Jessica Ihns
17- Tim Thiede
24- Connie Kleppe
.Communion Servers:
3- Clay Ketchum, Connie Kleppe
17- Darrel Hicks, Joan Kleppe
24- Marlene Hicks, Emma Thiede
Acolytes:
3- Courtney Current
17- Jenna Holtz
24- Jo Thiede
Altar Care:
Darlene Christiansen, Joan Kleppe
Bread Maker: John Alden
Tellers: Deanne Bennett, Marlene Hicks
Fellowship Servers:
3 - NO FELLOWSHIP- Work Day
10- Senior/Senior Coffee – Bethlehem
17- Rochelle Busch, Darla Fields, Marlene
24 - NO FELLOWSHIP - Easter
As with human relationships, our relationship with God will go through many stages. One theologian wrote, “Sometimes the relationship will fill us with great joy; other times it will seem boring and stale. Sometimes the relationship will be as natural as breathing. Sometimes it will demand hard work and require lots of time and energy. We may even have time when we go our own way, paying no attention to God or prayer. But God does not turn away. God keeps calling, and after a time a longing wells up in us to return to God. We have heard God’s call.”
BWELCA Hilites
Eve, Thur. April 14 at 7:00 p.m. at Deanne Bennett’s.
Next Board Meeting: Tue. May 3 at 6:00 p.m.
April Anniversaries
6 Pat and Gary Hansen
24 Becky and Jacob Petersen
26 Diana and Warren Ihns
28 Jessica and Brent Ihns
April Birthdays
3 Lane Dosland
4 Jean Busch, Meagan Fields, Chase Gruenwald
7 Charles Franck
8 Shelley Beeck, Sammi Jo Adler
9 Gary Hansen
13 Kindy Nissen
15 Rex Duffey
21 Cassandra Suthers
22 Joyce Feuss, Glenn Tobiason
23 Enos Ihns
24 Jackie Fischer, Jody Holtz
26 Rochelle Busch
27 Brent Ihns
Pastor Keith Larson
Office Phone 678-2301
Home Phone 563-652-2599
Anywhere, anytime 563-447-0652
pastor@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Pastoral Associate Barb Tobiason
Office Phone 826-2761
Home Phone 563-487-2116
AIM@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Office Secretary Deanne Bennett
Church Phone 678-2301
secretary@bethlehem.mylutheran.org
Parish Nurse Carm Schneider
Office Hours 9:00 a.m. -10:30 a.m. Tues
Phone 678-2302
Sunday Schedule
Worship 9:00 a.m.
Fellowship 10:00 a.m..
Office Hours
If you need to enter the church and do not have a key, always call ahead to be certain he or someone is here.
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