April Banner

Bethel Lutheran Church

1321 North Avenue Northfield, MN 55057 507.786.6674

[email protected]

www.facebook.com/bethellutheran

http://bethelnorthfield.org/bethel-banner-newsletter/

Adopt-A-Highway 9

Adult Ed 14

Calendar 10

Children/Nursery 6-7

Council 12

Creation Care 15

Finance 12

Library 4

Living Faith 4

Membership 5

Mission & Justice 7

Mission Interp. 18

New Members 3

Seniors 2

Scrip 8

Thank You 18

Worship Servants 16

Youth/YES 8-9

Inside this issue:

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Volume #501 April 2013

… and much more!

Capital Campaign Kicks Off start this month with a full calendar of events:

Sunday, April 7: Appeal Kick-Off Weekend

Sunday, April 14: Mission Fest

Sunday, April 21: Gala Congregation-Wide Banquet - have you RSVP'd yet? (See the invitation below.)

Sunday, May 19: Commitment Sunday

We trust that each of you will prayerfully consider how you can help our Free campaign to be a success, with your time, talent, and treasure. We hope you'll attend all of the campaign events!

Have questions or want to get involved? Contact our campaign co-chairs, Don Pavek and Tracy Nelson, or call the church office.

Because of the generous support of our members, the debt acquired to expand our facility in 2007 has been reduced from $3.5 million to about $1.57 million (as of February 2013). The monthly debt service is just under $11,000, which is paid primarily from financial gifts from the last capital campaign, which ends in June 2013.

We are initiating an intensive fundraising effort to drive this debt down even further, while serving our neighbors in need. The new capital campaign has an exciting "First Fruits" component: the first $100,000 raised will be used for a project in India through Lutheran Partners in Global Ministry (LPGM) focused on helping child laborers out of extreme poverty.

Free ~ From Debt ~ For Service ~ To Grow gets a running

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much fun on those youth trips. He motioned with his hands how he and the Bethel kids put Barb Hanson in a grocery cart and pushed her all over a grocery store. He chuckled how they stuffed Barb in a cold freezer in the store. “I loved those kids,” he said.

As Lars and I talked, it hit me. “That’s the secret.” I said to myself, “If Barb Hanson were here right now, I bet she would say the same things about the laughing-fun she and the kids had with Lars when they got together, and she would end with, ‘I loved those kids.’”

It was the fun that those two responsible adults, Barb and Lars, created with each other in zany, fun-loving partnership with the Bethel youth that made the whole program work. It was the laughter and fun that created the caring bonds that became the conduits for friendships and shared confidences. Who the kids were at school, for instance, had nothing to do with it. It was a way everybody had of saying, “We love you guys — as you are — right now, today!”

Isn’t this a frequent message from the pulpit? Isn’t this how God wants us to live?

A while ago as I was walking past the youth area of Bethel on a Wednesday afternoon, I saw our amazing group of Bethel

youth along with Barb Farmer and Pam Vig laughing and clearly enjoying each other’s company.

I remembered the “old days” when Jan and I had three kids in the Bethel youth program. Barbara Hanson, a former Bethel Youth Director was so important to our children (and thus to us) when they were growing up in the 70’s and 80’s. What seemed to be especially important to our kids was that Barbara was a “kid” herself. She knew what was going on in their lives. She understood. That emotional presence, along with her acceptance of what our kids had to say (without judgment) seemed to be a part of what made for their great experiences in the Bethel youth group.

Recently I was talking with Lars (AKA Tim Larsen) after church in Bethel’s Narthex. I told him what I was writing about Bethel’s youth program, and he broke into a big smile, I mean a really huge “Lars” smile! Then he laughed as he reminisced how he and Barb had so

Bethel has always had very successful youth ministries. How does Bethel’s history with youth inform us older adults about enjoying our lives together? How can we find those opportunities for zany laughter and fun, creating the caring bonds that become the critical conduits for our friendships and shared confidences?

Is the key, really, like it is for our youth, our experiences of fun and laughter (and keeping in mind that who we were in school, so to speak, should have nothing to do with our happiness now)? If so, what can happen at church to enable all of us older adults to find that public enjoyment of our life together in a way that we can then say to each other, “We love you guys — as you are — right now, today!”

a Crown of Splendor

“We love you guys — as you are -- right now, today!” By Bruce Roberts

The next Senior Coffee hour is set for Monday, April 1, (no foolin'!) at 10 a.m. in the CLC. Bring some treats to share and enjoy an hour of fellowship. For more details, contact Mary Nystuen at 645-4011.

bowling continues for Bethelites ages 50+ at the Jesse James Lanes on Tuesdays at 2 p.m., with a special rate of $3 per line plus free shoes and balls. This is not a high-stress league but rather a chance to have fun with friends. Come as you are and as often as you can! Contact Henry Mueller at 663-0143 for more details.

Seniors ~ Seniors ~ Seniors Seniors ~ Seniors ~ Seniors Seniors ~ Seniors ~ Seniors Seniors ~ Seniors ~ Seniors

Of Interest to Our Seniors

Synod Notes Eight individuals have been named as candidates for the position of Bishop of our synod: Rev. Steven J. Berkeland, Rev. Dr. Vern Christopherson, Rev. Steve Delzer, Rev. April Ulring Larson, Rev. Dr. Glenn Monson, Rev. Sarah Nietz, Rev. Dr. Norman Wahl, and Rev. Dr. Melanie Wallschlaeger. They will participate in forums around the synod, and all are welcome to attend. Go to semnsynod.org for details.

Tuesday, May 21, at 7 p.m. at Saint Paul Lutheran Church, Pine Island

Wednesday, May 22, at 7 p.m. at Chatfield Lutheran Church, Chatfield

Thursday, May 23, at 7 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 300 Elm Ave E, Waseca

which will combat the effects of harsh child labor in that region.)

Not only are these goals meaningful tasks for us, but I love the title of our effort as it also reiterates who we are as a body of Christ. In Christ, we are those who have been freed from all debt of sin and death, freed for love and service to neighbors and the world, and freed

to grow in relationship to God and one another.

With that, I recall the post-resurrection story in John 21 when Jesus meets Peter on the shore of the lake. Jesus asks three times, “Peter, do you love me?” Peter answers affirmatively each time, and each time upon hearing Peter’s “yes,” Jesus replies with a mission - “Feed my lambs…Tend my sheep…Feed my sheep.”

You could say this mission spreads to the whole church, and thus everything we do as a community of faith seeks to fulfill it. Worship, education, fellowship, prayer, service, and proclamation all serve to feed and tend God’s people in the world near and far.

I see this stewardship journey as a part of that calling. Feed my sheep. Tend

April 2013

Alleluia, Christ is risen! – He is risen indeed! Alleluia!

Friends in Christ,

After the long season of Lent those words truly have a joyful ring. Happy Easter to each and every one of you! I pray that the message of the empty tomb confronts you in a powerful way this season and raises you to renewed faith, hope, and meaning for your life in God’s love.

This month at Bethel is an important one in the life of our faith community. We’ll be intensely engaging in a stewardship journey entitled, “FREE: Free from debt – Free for service – Free to grow.” The primary goals of this effort are to significantly tackle the remaining debt from our excellent 2008 facility expansion and to give significantly beyond our walls to others in the world who are doing God’s good work. I’m so excited about the fact that the first $100,000 raised in this effort will go toward life-changing efforts outside our walls! (Much or all of it will go to fund a school and facility in India through Lutheran Partners in Global Mission

my lambs. Feed my sheep. All of what is given by us as a community in this effort will go to support causes and communities where God is acting through us and others to do this kind of work - to spread justice, peace, and the good news of God’s love in the world.

It happens here at Bethel all the time! Through our gifts we’ll be helping to ensure it keeps happening in the lives of many who encounter the good news through this church. It also happens all over the world. Through our gifts we’ll be supporting and connecting with many others in life-changing ministry.

As you discern how you will participate in being FREE, I encourage you to do one thing. Pray about it. Pray about it and ask God, “What do you want me to do?” I’m confident that this simple prayer will not go unanswered, and it will bless you and many others. Thank you for your partnership in God’s ministry through Bethel, and may you continue to be blessed in the faith that you are free in Christ.

From the Associate Pastor...

Welcome to the Bethel Family

Please welcome Bethel’s newest members:

Jeff and Mara Hessian, Isabele and Madelyn (12), Jackson (7) and William (3)

We at Bethel seek God’s presence, guidance, and wisdom for our lives and the mission of our congregation as we approach commitment Sunday for Bethel’s capital campaign. There will be opportunities to sign the volunteer roster after each service on Sundays April 28, May 5, and May 12. We hope you will join us in praying for the important decisions that lay ahead.

The Spiritual Life Committee of the Bethel Capital Campaign is hosting a 24-hour prayer vigil. You are being invited to pray for one 30-minute time period. The prayer vigil will take place from 9 a.m. on Thursday, May 16, to 9 a.m. on Friday May 17.

You might ask what a prayer vigil is and for what do you pray? The word vigil comes from a Latin word that means “wakefulness.” Throughout the history of the Christian Church, the faithful have gathered before major church events to pray continuously throughout the night.

Calling All Pray-ers!

and saints who had gone before. She saw and felt beauty and peace like she had never known and approached the entrance to eternity.

To Heaven and Back is the story of Dr. Neal's spiritual journey, including the extraordinary account of that fateful day in Chile. She also chronicles her physical recovery, and the many miraculous events that accompanied her return to health. Her story is an inspiration and comfort to those needing reassurance of the presence and love of our incomparable God.

We currently have two copies of To Heaven and Back (236.24) in the library. During the month of April they can be found on the shelf labeled “This Month’s New Additions”. After the

month of April, look for this book in section 236 Eschatology.

Nominated for nine Academy awards, the must-see movie Life of Pi

Come in and check out the “What’s new this month” shelf ~ We have great books, DVD’s, and music:

Dr. Mary Neal was a devoted wife and mother of four children, a talented and successful orthopedic surgeon, and an experienced outdoor enthusiast when the unthinkable happened on a vacation in 1999. Mary and friends were kayaking on the Fuy River in Chile, when her kayak became trapped under a waterfall. Despite her and her companions’ efforts to dislodge the boat, Mary lost consciousness and drowned before they could pull her body to shore.

During the time she lost consciousness and died, Mary experienced a taste of heaven that few in this world have known. She was led by heavenly beings

Living Faith By Pam Santerre

Library Corner

Our family said goodbye to our beloved uncle, father, and grandfather in January. Ocie Mills was just 23 years old with a wife and baby

when tragedy struck his wife’s family. With compassion and grace, Ocie and Betsy welcomed two orphaned children into their family — my husband, Bruce, and his brother Ken.

Bruce and I used memorials for Ocie to purchase a St. John’s Bible print entitled ‘The Sower and the Seed’, which hangs in Bethel’s chapel. The artist rendered the story of this parable as Jesus, dressed in a shirt and blue jeans, sowing seeds randomly over thorny ground, rocky soil, and fertile land. One could meditate on this picture for quite some time and be inspired by the richness of

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the message. As I gazed on this image, I was struck by how the sower freely flings the seeds, taking no particular care on which type of soil they fall. In fact, some of the seeds cannot be contained within the border of the image but fly to the very edge of the paper.

Ocie voiced the words of his faith and convictions broadly as well: from inmates in prison to legislators on Capitol Hill; from national television to friends and family in a one room log cabin in northern Minnesota. He was never afraid or timid about sowing the seeds of his understanding of Scripture or of a host of other topics! While we did not always agree with him, he challenged us to listen to what we heard, to be awake to what was

is now available for checkout from our library.

An aspiring Canadian author interviews the Indian storyteller Pi Patel to hear the firsthand account of his adventures. Pi recounts his upbringing in French-occupied India, where his father owned a zoo. When Pi's family business fails, they embark on a sea voyage to Canada to begin a new life. One night aboard their Japanese cargo ship in the middle of the ocean, a deadly storm hits and sinks nearly all that Pi holds dear. He survives in a lifeboat with several of their zoo animals, including a fearsome Bengal tiger. In a struggle to survive, Pi and the tiger forge an unexpected connection that gives him daily motivation to live.

Plus CDs from Laura Story, Jamie Grace, Francesca Battistelli, Mandisa, and

more are available!

happening around us, and to give voice to what we believe.

Blessings to you this Easter season and may you too share with the companions on your daily walk, the good news of Jesus’ redeeming love.

�

The Cancer Mutual-Help Gathering for Bethel Women meets the second Monday of each month, from 1–2 p.m. in the Bethel Chapel. New members are always welcome.

Pam Santerre, Pastoral Minister

786-8951

[email protected]

worship that morning as we take time to acknowledge all you do for the ministries at Bethel and in this world. Thank you for "Changing Lives and Making a Difference".

Time and Talent Opportunities Sheets will be mailed out in April. This is your opportunity to let us know where and

The Cancer Mutual-Help Gathering for Bethel Women meets

the second Monday of each month, from 1–2 p.m. in the Bethel Chapel. Please join us at our next meeting on Monday, April 8.

Bethel Women Having Fun will be taking off for Red Wing on Tuesday, April 16, to visit the Red Wing Shoe Museum and have lunch at the St. James Hotel. For those so inclined, they can check out other shops in that area. We will be leaving Bethel at 10:30. Our lunch will be "chefed" by Sarah Holmgren, Barbara Holmgren's daughter. The signup sheet is on the Information Station. Remember that in May we will not have an event as we will be working at getting ready for the Bethel Garage Sale.

The Bethel Quilters meet on the fourth Tuesday of the month (April 23) at 9 a.m. If you can tie a knot, you're already an expert! Help us meet our goal of 100 quilts this year — and enjoy the fellowship and the fun!

Volunteer Appreciation Sunday will be April 28. Join us in

Bethel News

April 2013

how you want to serve at Bethel in the upcoming months. The options are many and there is even an area for you to include new ideas. Please watch your mailbox for this form. Once you have prayed about your options, complete the form and return it to us (hopefully by mid-May). Thanks for all you do and for all you give to the ministries at Bethel Lutheran Church.

Membership Matters Are you looking for a new church home?

On Sunday, April 14, from noon to 1:30 pm, we will have Membership Matters, a time of information and discussion for people who are considering joining the Bethel community. You are invited to join the Bethel staff for a casual pizza lunch and an informative gathering about Bethel congregation, its mission and ministries, and our hopes and dreams for the future. You do not have to attend to join Bethel, but participation will help you decide if Bethel is the right congregation for you. Child care will be available.

Have you found a new church home?

Those who desire to join Bethel and new members who have joined since Oct. 28, 2012, will receive invitations to participate in Affirmation of Baptism on Sunday, April 28, during the 10:45 worship service. This service will be followed by a delicious luncheon, hosted by Bethel’s New Member Team.

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a member of Bethel, please contact Pam Santerre, Pastoral Minister, at 786-8951.

As members look to the future, their top four goals are:

� Expand outreach ministries;

� Develop ministries that work toward healing those broken by life circumstances;

� Develop the spiritual generosity of the people to financially support the ministry of the church; and

� Strengthen the process by which members are called and equipped for ministry and leadership.

Survey data is not the end of a conversation, but rather the beginning. For more information on the results of the CAT, please contact the church office.

Thank you to all 364 of you who recently took the computer survey, the Church Assessment Tool - that's 71% of our average attendance! The results provided an illuminating and encouraging look into the health of our church and useful feedback as we create our new capital campaign.

Some results:

77% of respondents are clearly satisfied with Bethel. The majority see energy and excitement for ministry in our church. Participation in church activities beyond worship is a priority for 64% of respondents. We are strong in the areas of inclusiveness and advocacy. We are weaker in areas of identity and vision.

Thanks for Taking the CAT!

attend watch for the packet that will soon be mailed to your home.

Children’s Ministry Road Maps are coming. Keep an eye on the mail towards the end of the month. All families with children in age 3-grade 5 programming for the 2013-14 school year will be asked to fill

3rd Grade Holy Baptism Retreat ~ On Sunday, May 5, Pastor Tim and Director of Children’s Ministries, Pam

Vig will be hosting a retreat focusing on Holy Baptism for all 3rd graders. If you have a 3rd grader who would like to

The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. Psalm 24:1.

April in Minnesota is often a time when we are chomping at the bit to rediscover God’s great outdoor world. After months of cold and dark, we embrace the longer and lighter days.

And yet, the busyness of our schedules often seems to increase around this time of year as we push towards the end of another school year. Finding time to simply enjoy God’s world can be difficult, and yet so worthwhile.

During this wonderful month of April as the days lengthen and the earth warms and the world yields new life, consider adding outdoor activity to your daily devotions. Share your highs and lows during a walk around the block or while hiking in the Arb.

If it has been a very busy day, simply take ten minutes before bed to slip outside and sit on the front step or walk to the end of the block. Notice the changes that are taking place daily in the yards, trees, and gardens. Listen for the different birds that are returning. Share your observations with others in your home. What do

Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries

786-8878

[email protected]

Children’s Ministry Update

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

out and return the Children’s Ministry registration packet by the end of May.

Children ~ Families ~ Children ~ Families

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you love about this time of year? What are you looking forward to in the coming months? What did you see today that wasn’t there yesterday?

There will never be enough time to do everything that we want to do. And so we must simply incorporate those

activities that are important to us into whatever we are already doing. May you be blessed with awareness and appreciation for God’s great world this month and may you discover daily opportunities to enjoy it.

Christ is opening you into a community that can bear even suffering with confidence, and sorrow with hope.

The risen Christ opens the Scriptures — the full depth of God's promise made to Sarah and Abraham now coming to life in the new creation. Even when everything else is being stripped away, the risen Christ opens you to God's promised future.

Christ opens you to God's work of forgiveness and reconciliation. Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, is opening this way of life for you.

In God's grace, The Rev. Mark S.

Hanson Presiding Bishop

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

Easter. It is about more than an open tomb. It is the good news of the risen Christ who opens lives.

Think about Jesus' friends after his death. Their lives were closed down by fear, disappointment, and confusion. The risen Christ appeared saying "peace be with you" and opened their lives with a liberating word of reconciliation. In the same way Christ opens your life with a baptismal promise that joins your life to his death and resurrection. "You are my child. Nothing in all creation will separate you from my love."

Even now Christ is opening your life, your daily work, your passions, and imagination. Christ is opening your daily life into a holy calling that fills the world with love. At the Lord’s table,

Easter Message From Our Bishop

World, and our letters are important to changing policies and funding for the hungry in the U.S. and in the world. So come, be a part of this effort. We’re only asking for a few minutes of your time.

Want to get involved? The next meeting of the Mission & Justice Committee is set for Thursday, April 4, at 7 p.m.

a moment to stop by our bulletin board and check out Jaelyn's beautiful paintings! The children really do work hard on their masterpieces!

It's coming ~ the famous Nursery Bake Sale! Mark your calendars for April 28. We will be looking for lots and lots of bakers to help fill the

From the Mission and Justice Committee Vision Statement: Since we believe that service is both an obligation and a privilege of the Christian life, we seek to provide opportunities for Bethel members to learn about the needs of others in our world and to put their knowledge into action, heeding Christ's call to "Love your neighbor as yourself."

Juley Jenkinson, Nursery Coordinator

786-6674 [email protected]

Minute for Mission LPGM Annual Celebration

Please join us at a gathering of LPGM donors and friends on Friday, April 12, 2013. We will be hosted by Peace Lutheran Church, 8600 East Bush Lake Road, Bloomington, Minnesota 55438.

5:30 p.m. Dinner ($10 donation at the door). Please call us (612.823.5058) or send an email ([email protected]) to make a reservation so we prepare enough food.

6:30 p.m. Program — no reservations needed. This is the third year we have gathered constituents together to celebrate the ministries and projects that have recently been accomplished with our global partners. It is an inspiring time of storytelling from the past and sharing the vision for the future. We will also share the audited financial statements from 2012. We look forward to your fellowship with LPGM supporters, staff, and Board of Directors.

Jaelyn Holz is our April Artist of the Month! One of the most calming and relaxing activities we do

in the nursery is to paint. All children, girls and boys, little kids and big kids, all love to paint! We spend a lot of time painting in the nursery. Please take

Nursery News

April 2013

Children ~ Families ~ Children ~ Families

heart. Just place a check marked for malaria in the globe by the communion stands at any time. We will see that it reaches the right place.

On May 5, there will be a brief adult forum, with a short video and presentation on the 2013 offering of letters for Bread for the World. Bethel is a Covenant Church member of Bread for the

Thank you to everyone who attended and who participated in the planning of the 2013 Peace and Justice Fair. It was a successful event and a fun time for all.

April 24 is World Malaria

Day. Again, a thank you to everyone at Bethel who has been a donor to the ELCA Malaria Campaign. Every $10 gift buys a treated mosquito net or malarial control product. It is successful in reducing malaria, so continue to hold this need in your

tables with goodies on that Sunday! What a fun way to spend an afternoon with your kids....BAKING for the bake sale! A "Bakers' Sign-Up Sheet" will be in the nursery.

Breakfast with the Bishop The 11th annual Lutheran Men in Mission Breakfast with the Bishop will be held on Saturday, April 27, at 8 a.m. at Cabela's in Owatonna. The cost is $10 per person and the keynote speaker is Doug Haugen, Executive Director, Lutheran Men in Mission. For more information, contact Nick Nikoley at 507-451-6335.

Parents and youth ~ We’ll be reviewing packing lists, reviewing schedules, and answering questions for our upcoming trips this summer. Please contact Barb if you are unable to attend these meetings.

Fundraisers

Watch your mail for fundraising events coming up in May:

Flower Sale Info ~

8th-12th grade youth, please remember that all flower orders and money must be turned in by Wednesday, April 3.

All plants will be delivered to Bethel on Friday, May 10, between 5:30 and 7 p.m. Please meet in the Bethel Youth Center if you are signed up to help unload plants.

All youth who sold plants may pick up your orders the next morning,

the Northfield FoodShelf. You may sign up at the information station in the Bethel Youth Center or call or email Barb to register.

High school youth – don’t miss Xtreme Capture the Flag! The Northfield area churches are joining together for some great fun in April. All high school youth are invited to an Xtreme Capture the Flag tournament starting at 4:28 on April 28 (4/28). Admission will be a non-perishable food item to be donated to the Northfield FoodShelf. More details will be coming later this month. Put the date on your calendars, invite a friend, and plan for some xtreme entertainment!

Summer trippers ~

All forms for summer trips are due Sunday, April 7.

Trip meetings will take place as follows:

HS Washington D.C. Mission Trip – Monday, April 22, 7 p.m.

8th Grade Mission Trip – Tuesday, April 23, 7 p.m.

Christikon Trip – Tuesday, April 23, 8 p.m.

Hi League will meet at 7 p.m. on April 10 and 24. Watch for more information about those meetings as they get closer. Come reconnect with your Bethel friends for fun, relaxation, and faith talk in the Bethel Youth Center.

9ers & Mentors ~

Our service day is scheduled for Saturday, April 6. We’ll meet inside the north entrance of the Northfield Community Resource Center (1651 Jefferson Parkway) at 10 a.m. to help sort March Food Drive items. We will be finished by noon.

Don’t forget to put the End-of-the-Year Mentor Potluck on your calendar! We’ll meet at Bethel at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 5, for our last large-group event of the year. Watch your mail for details about food assignments.

6th Grade Connections will meet on Wednesdays, April 3 and 17:

The 3rd will be a regular meeting in the Bethel Youth Center at 7 p.m.

Our last 6th Grade Connections meeting will be a party at Christopher & Jennifer Sawyer’s home (Garrett) at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17. Parents are invited, and each family is asked to bring a dish to share with the group. Please join us to celebrate our connections!

Middle School Fun! On Friday, April 12, Bethel middle school youth will be joining other Northfield area churches for a night of fun at St. John’s Lutheran Church. If you like running around a big dark church, come and be a part of this big Romans & Christians game! We’ll meet at St. John’s at 7 p.m.; the fun will last until 9:30 p.m. Admission is a non-perishable food item to be donated to

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Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth

Barb Farmer, Director of Youth Ministries

786-8877

[email protected]

From the Scrip Table... The warmer weather will soon be here so now is the time to let Scrip continue to work for you as you plan your summer garden, purchase a tiller or lawn mower, purchase plants and seeds or buy new patio furniture. Scrip is available from many retailers, so the choice is yours: Home Depot, Lowe's, Menard's, Sears, Target, Kmart, and more. Also, purchasing a card every week or two helps budget out these purchases.

Plus don't forget to use Scrip for those family celebrations! Use Scrip for groceries, paper products, flowers for your table, new pillows for the sofa or gas to get where you are going. And as always, there are cards to take with you each week including Caribou and Starbuck's, and "just thinking of you" cards from Pizza Hut and Domino's for that hard-working college student. Let Scrip work for you!

YouthQuake, continued on Page 9.

Youth Ministry News

Saturday, May 11, between 7:30 and 11 a.m. Please remember that you are responsible for delivering the plants you sold.

The annual Bethel WELCA Garage Sale is a great chance to earn money for next summer’s trip and be of service to our congregation at the same time. Help is needed on Wednesday and Saturday, May 15 and 18, and 2-3 hour work shifts will be available for youth who want to earn money toward their summer trips. Details for this fundraiser will be sent in the mail. A sign-up sheet will be at the youth information station in the Bethel Youth Center or you may call or email Barb to sign up for a shift. As in the past, there will be a limited number of spaces for this fundraiser – so plan to sign up early!

The Annual Scoop (lime green packet) will be sent to all Bethel youth and parents in April. Please think about how you plan to be involved next year in Bethel's youth ministry for the 2013-14 school year and plan to return your completed registration packet promptly by May 12th. Your

April 2013

Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth ~ Youth

Our New Prayer Wall By Barb Farmer, Director of Youth Ministries

asked to ponder one or two things that were top-of-mind in their prayers. As they contemplated their petitions, they were asked to summarize them in a word or phrase, choose a ribbon to represent their prayer, and write the word or phrase on their ribbon. Finally, they tied their “prayer” onto a cord of the prayer wall as a visual reminder of their prayer request.

This prayer wall will remain in the youth room glass door to remind us of the importance of prayer in our lives.

If you walk by the Bethel Youth Center regularly, you may have noticed a new installation in the glass doors to the room and wondered what it is. Encased in the southernmost section of that opening is a black frame holding several multi-colored vertical cords. Attached to the cords are a variety of ribbons of different colors and patterns.

It’s an object of interest in and of itself. But there is greater meaning behind compilation of wood and string. It is our prayer wall.

During Lent, prayer was the focus for several youth ministries, just as it was for our adults. Youth have been invited to think about their prayer life and explore different ways of praying that may be meaningful to each of them individually. It was during this season of reflection that the prayer wall was introduced. For many, prayer is facilitated by a physical representation, and it’s for this purpose that the wall is intended.

In the third grade prayer class, our children are introduced to the acronym ACTS as a reminder of the different petitions they can include in their prayers. ACTS stands for:

A – Adoration – praise God for who God is

C – Confession – own up to our sins

T – Thanksgiving – thank God for all God has done

S – Supplication – make requests for ourselves and others

During Lent, our youth were reminded of this acronym and encouraged to think of the many things they might take to God in prayer. Then they were

We’ll all be adding “prayers” as we experience times of adoration, confession, thanks, or supplication, and we’d like to invite the congregation to join us. Just imagine our prayer wall months from now, filled with hundreds of “prayers” of all kinds! Prayers to help us visualize our reaching toward God.

Prayer means that the total you is praying. Your whole being reaches out to God, and God reaches down to you.

E. Stanley Jones

YouthQuake, continued from p. 8.

help with this makes a huge difference in the amount of work that will be needed later this summer. Thank you for your help!

Help Needed! As you look out your window, it is difficult to believe that spring will soon be here! With the arrival of spring, the flowers will be here, but spring also shows up all the trash that has been tossed into ditches all winter. We need your help on Saturday, April 27, to assist our Creation Care Team in picking up trash along a 1.8 mile stretch of Highway 3 north of Northfield. If we have a dozen people, we can do the job in two hours.

We need your help - please put aside one morning to help make our corner of the world a cleaner place. Meet at Bethel at 9 a.m. to carpool to our location. We supply bags and vests - you supply your energy and a pair of heavy gloves. Thanks for your help!

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wed

nesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

1 10 a.m. Senior Coffee

Time

2 Capital Campaign

Messengers phone calls

2 p.m. Bethel Staff

meeting

3 See schedule below

Capital Campaign


1:30 p.m. Stewardship

Committee meeting

4:30 p.m. Creation

Care Film Series

7 p.m. 6 Grade

Connections

4 Capital Campaign


8 a.m. Bethel Women's

Study

8:30 a.m. Men of

Bethel

5 p.m. Personnel

Committee meeting

7 p.m. Boy Scoot

Troop Meeting

7 p.m. Mission &

Justice Committee

meeting

5 6 10 a.m. 9ers Service

Day at the NCRC

7 Capital Campaign

Appeal Kick-Off

See schedule below

9:45 a.m. Estate

Strategy Essentials

8 1 p.m. Cancer Mutual-

Help Group

6:30 p.m. Cub Scout

and Tiger Scout

meeting

9 2 p.m. Bethel Staff

meeting

6:30 p.m. Liberty Park

Townhome Assn.

7 p.m. Finance

Committee meeting

7 p.m. Lydia Circle

7 p.m. Scout Den

Parent meeting

10

See schedule below

4:30 p.m. Creation

Care Film Series

7 p.m. Hi League

11


Study

8:30 a.m. Men of

Bethel

7 p.m. Boy Scoot

Troop Meeting

7 p.m. Church Council

meeting

12

13

9:30 a.m. Musical

Rehearsal

14

Capital Campaign

Mission Fest

See schedule below

12 p.m. Membership

Matters

15

9:30 a.m. Martha Circle 16

10:30 a.m. Bethel

Women Having Fun

2 p.m. Bethel Staff

meeting

5 p.m. North Rice

County Thrivent Board

meeting

17

See schedule below

4:30 p.m. Creation

Care Film Series

7 p.m. 6th Grade

Connections

18


Study

8:30 a.m. Men of

Bethel

7 p.m. Boy Scoot

Troop Meeting

19

20

Calendar — April 2013

The Bethel Banner

21

See schedule below

9:45 a.m. This is the

Life

9:45 a.m. Creation Care

Forum

5:30 p.m. Capital

Campaign Gala

22

6:30 p.m. Cub Scout

and Tiger Scout

meeting

7 p.m. Lois Circle

7 p.m. HS Mission Trip

meeting

23

Bethel Women Having

Fun

9 a.m. Bethel Quilters

2 p.m. Bethel Staff

meeting

7 p.m. BeFrienders

meeting

7 p.m. 8th Grade

Mission Trip meeting

8 p.m. Christikon Trip

meeting

24

See schedule below

4:30 p.m. Creation Care

Film Series

7 p.m. Hi League

25

8 a.m. Bethel

Women's Study

8:30 a.m. Men of

Bethel

7 p.m. Boy Scoot

Troop Meeting

26

27

9 a.m. Adopt-a-

Highway

3 p.m. Kallman Piano

Recital

28

Volunteer Appreciation

Sunday

New Member Sunday

See schedule below

9:45 a.m. This is the

Life

12 p.m. New Member

Luncheon

29

30

2 p.m. Bethel Staff

meeting

May 11 ~ Youth Flower Sale Delivery

May 16-17 ~ 24-hour Prayer Vigil

May 17-18 ~ Garage Sale

May 19 ~ Commitment Sunday

April 2013

Look for more inform

ation about events at Bethel on our

web

site at: www.bethelnorthfield.org

Mark Your Calendars

Weekly Wednesday Schedule

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nd a

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ve)

3:30 p.m. BAM

5:30 p.m. Bistro

6:30 p.m.

Vespers

7 p.m.

Bell Choir Rehearsal

7:15 p.m.

Adult Choir Rehearsal

Weekly Sunday Schedule

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8:30 a.m. Worship with Holy Communion

9:45 a.m. Sunday School and coffee fellowship

10:45 a.m. Worship with Holy Communion

The Bethel Banner

Highlights of the February Church Council Meeting… Council President asked that reports be submitted each month on the Monday in advance of the Thursday meeting. He asked that members come prepared to discuss items in the reports or to accept them as submitted.

Trustee reported ongoing maintenance continues.

Personnel has reviewed the salary and benefit status for Bethel employees.

The Treasurer reported that January offering were up 15% over last year. Some donations were already made to the new capital campaign. The Finance Committee had not yet made so financial reports would be ready in a week.

The Steward reported that they continue to work on sharing personal stewardship moments in worship although this will be on the back burner until after the capital campaign. They talked about options for the Easter offering. They also are looking at ideas for volunteer appreciation which will take place on April 28.

At-Large to the Kitchen reported that there will be an inventory of equipment done soon.

At-Large to Mission & Justice reported that they are pulling together the details of the Peace and Justice Fair.

At-Large to Visual Arts reported that this group has been busy working on the display in the Narthex for Lent.

Capital Campaign team chairs are busy getting a grasp on their duties and how they fit into the big picture.

Council installation was set for March 10.

Volunteers were recruited for the Synod Assembly.

The Emergency Preparedness Task Force had a panel discussion with several local authorities and they will now start to put together policies for Bethel.

The over-crowding in the sanctuary was discussed. Trustee will look into costs and possibilities for expansion. Schedule changes will also be examined.

April 2013

Year-to-date

Benevolences

Financial News and Notes

Darla Dahl, Church Accountant

786-6687

[email protected]

Capital Campaign

Stock Donations If you are considering or planning to donate stock to Bethel, please contact Darla at 786-6687 or [email protected] before you make the transfer. When stocks are transferred to Bethel's brokerage account, the name of the donor is not always available, so it is very important that you contact Darla so she can credit your giving statement correctly and record your contribution per your instructions. If you need the delivery instructions to make the transfer from your account into Bethel's account, Darla has that information also. Thanks for your generosity.

Making Giving Simple The Bethel Finance Committee is looking into on-line giving and QR codes for giving with your smart phone. But Bethel already has an easy way to give: sign up for Simply Giving, an automated giving program offered by Thrivent, which allows you to make donations to Bethel on a scheduled, automatic basis from your bank account. It's a win-win: it is convenient for you, and it provides much-needed donation consistency for Bethel. Simply Giving can be used for your regular faith-based giving (your Sunday offering) and/or your building fund pledge to the capital campaign securely and confidentially. Best of all, the amount and schedule (monthly, quarterly, annually) can be changed at any time, quickly and easily, if your circumstances change.

How to get started ~ To set up electronic donations, simply complete the authorization form which can be found on Bethel’s website (bethelnorthfield.org) or on the Information Station in the Narthex. Donations can be debited automatically from either a checking or savings account. Return the completed form to the church office, attention Darla Dahl. Still have questions? Contact Darla - she's our resident expert!

SE MN Synod 4,583

Lutheran Social Services 1,833

Nfld. Ministerial Assoc. 50

ELCA World Hunger 658

ELCA Disaster Relief 115

CAC Food Shelf 301

March Food Drive 34

Total CAC Food Shelf 335

Malaria 45

Good Samaritan Funds used 225

$7,845

As of February 28, 2013

Capital Campaign 07/01/10 - 06/30/13

Results as of 02/28/13

Pledges 1,746,659

Pledges Received (1,472,263)

Pledges to be Received 274,396

Non-Pledges Received 135,616

1/15/2009 Building Debt 3,500,000

Scheduled Principal payments (326,998)

Additional Principal payments (1,604,361)

2/28/2013 Building Debt 1,568,641

Building Debt

The Bethel Banner

Adult Ed Opportunities Adult Ed Opportunities Adult Ed Opportunities during the Weekduring the Weekduring the Week

Monday Evenings

WELCA Bible Study ~ Audrey West’s study, "Gathered by God", is a word study on ‘gather’, covering topics such as: gather to learn, gather for fellowship, gather for support, gather to

be empowered, gather to be sent. This study is open to anyone, including circle study leaders and will meet most months on the first Monday of each month, 7-8 p.m. in the Fireside Room. Please contact Barb Holm at 507-301-8184 if you plan to attend and need the study materials.

Wednesday Afternoons, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. in the sanctuary

Bethel Creation Care Film Series: Topics and Challenges for Today

April 3 and 10 - "Dirty Business” - In the digital age, half our electricity still comes from coal. Can coal really be made "clean"? If we were to try to wean ourselves off coal, how would we keep the lights on? Is renewable energy ready for prime time? Jeff Goodell reveals the true social and environmental costs of coal power, and tells the stories of innovators who are pointing the way to an alternative energy future.

April 17 and 24 - "Dirt! The Movie” Inspired by William Bryant Logan's acclaimed book Dirt: The Ecstatic Skin of the Earth, this movie takes a humorous and substantial look into the history and current state of the living organic matter that we come from and will later return to.

The heart of Bethel’s mission is to build and equip disciples for Christ and His Kingdom. Through adult educational opportunities, we trust that God is actively nurturing faith, growing knowledge and empowering our community to live as disciples of Jesus Christ. Please consider participating in the following adult education opportunities:

For all Adults on For all Adults on For all Adults on Sunday MorningsSunday MorningsSunday Mornings, from 9:45–10:30 a.m.

“This is the Life” - in the Fireside Room with Pastor Tim. Join them for in this “confirmation class” for adults.

Adult Faith Forums – in the sanctuary

April 7 – Estate Strategy Essentials - Learn the three essential elements of estate planning. This is a Thrivent educational workshop offered by Andrew Gray, Bethel member and Thrivent Representative.

On Sunday AfternoonsOn Sunday AfternoonsOn Sunday Afternoons

Membership Matters - April 14, 12 — 1:30 p.m. in the Christian Life Center. Visitors have one more opportunity this year to attend Bethel’s Membership Matters class. If you are looking for a church home, you are invited to join the Bethel staff on one of these dates for a casual pizza lunch and conversation about Bethel’s mission and ministries and our hopes and dreams for the future. While not required, Membership Matters may help you decide if Bethel is the right congregation for you! Nursery care will be provided. Contact the church office if you would like to attend.

Bethel Adult Education Offerings Each documentary film is 1.5 hours long and will be viewed over two afternoons. Before viewing the second part of the film, a brief recap will be given, for those who have missed the first part. There will be time for comments and discussion following the showings. In May, the DVDs will be placed in the Bethel Library for checkout.

Thursday Mornings

Bethel Women’s Study, Women of Bethel meet each Thursday from 8 to 9 am in Bethel’s Fireside Room for good coffee and rich conversation. In April, we continue our discussion of Radical Gratitude by Mary Jo Leddy. New attendees are welcome to join us at any time and can pick up a copy of the book at Monkey See, Monkey Read in downtown Northfield. For information, contact Pam Santerre at 786-8951.

Men of Bethel (MOB), 8:30–9:30 a.m., in Bethel Classrooms 61B - MOB will continue studying A Spirituality of Service by Jerry Aaker. The book is described as "reflections on a life-long journey of faith and work among the world’s poor." Discussion is led by Duane Everson and others. All men are welcome.

�

Are you interested in leading an adult education event or class? Curricula, ideas, and help are available. Contact Pam Santerre at 786-8951 or [email protected].

lives can be changed as we respond to each other in love.

Blessings from Bethel's Befrienders

†

A core Befriender principle: “God is Present." For more information, call Marci Groenewold, (649-0760), Knight Stanley (612-877-0893 ), Jean Miller (645-5353), or the Bethel office (786-6674).

Upcoming events:

Befriender Meeting, Tuesday, April 23, 7 p.m., in the Fireside Room

Befriender Installation Sunday, May 5, at both services

“When you go in search of honey, you must expect to be stung by bees.” ~ Joseph Joubert

“A pessimist is one who makes difficulties of his opportunities and an optimist is one who makes opportunities of his difficulties.” ~ Harry S. Truman

“We are shaped and fashioned by what we love.” ~ Goethe

“Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” ~ Mark Twain

BeFriending relationships strive to reflect an attitude of Christ. With Christ in the center of the relationship,

April 2013

It is said, “Attitude is everything”. By changing our outlook toward life’s situations, hope and

healing occur. Following are some quotes that offer different perspectives as we reconsider our current circumstances.

“You are today where your thoughts have brought you; you will be tomorrow where your thoughts take you.” ~ James Allen

sells them at a discount to support other CAC programs. For more information visit: community-actioncenter.org/programs/clothing/

5th Bridge Goods for Good Rummage Sale ~ host your own rummage sale the weekend of May 17-18 and donate at least 50% of your profit to the charity of your choice. For more information visit: 5thbridge.org/goodsforgood

The Great Northfield MN Book Raid ~ donate books, CDs, DVDs, and videotapes to the Northfield Hospital Auxiliary’s annual book sale April 23-27. Donations are welcome starting April 1. The hospital auxiliary uses funds from the book sale to support the Northfield Hospital and other community health projects. For more information visit: northfield-hospital.org/about/community-partners/northfield-hospital-auxiliary-book-fair/

Look for the details on the Creation Care Wednesday Film Series coming up in April on page 14!

Creation Care Tip: Is de-cluttering on your spring to-do list? Did you know that in the United States, we throw out an average of 68 pounds of wardrobe excess into our landfills each year? Assuming that the clothing and items you are ready to let go of are in clean, usable condition, there are many ways that you can help others and the earth while opening up spaces in your closets and cupboards. Some great local options to consider:

Bethel Garage Sale ~ You can benefit Bethel by donating items the week of May 13 in preparation for the sale on May 17 & 18.

Clothes Closet ~ Administrated by Northfield's Community Action Center, the Clothes Closet accepts donations of gently used clothing and

Creation Care

Another Chance By Marci Groenewold

Gustavus Adolphus Conference Gustavus Adolphus College is hosting a conference entitled Road to Reformation: Deepening Our Theological Roots on April 20, 10:30 am – 3:30 p.m. In anticipation of the 500th anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation, the conference will highlight Lutheran theology, with new perspectives on and a joyful reminder of what is meaningful, inspiring, and to be celebrated in our Lutheran identity. The conference will feature two keynote speakers: Dr. Martin E. Marty will speak on the topic “What Do Lutherans Have to Offer the 21st Century?” and Rev. Dr. Kenneth Mtata will speak on "Lutheranism in the 21st Century ~ African Perspectives."

There is no cost to attend the Faith Conference and all are welcome. There will be a $10 charge for a box lunch and beverage; please pre-order for the lunch. For questions and lunch pre-orders, contact Church Relations in the Center for Servant Leadership at 507-922-7001, or [email protected].

The Bethel Banner

April Worship Servants

April 7 April 14 April 21 April 28

Assisting Minister (8:30 a.m.)

Carol Lysne Mike Ahrens Lu Lindstrom Noel Stratmoen

Assisting Minister (10:45 a.m.)

Libby Glimsdal Christina Schwietz Hannah Mahr Knight Stanley

Reader (8:30 a.m.) Sandy Reiman Jim Holden Bethel Youth Carol Lysne

Reader (10:45 a.m.) Kristi Huettl Elizabeth Leer Bethel Youth Kristin Kivell

Acolytes (8:30 a.m.) Emma Johnson, Sarah Holman

Noah Arndt, Ryan Will

Marta Sorenson, Haakon Rustad

Kylie Kvernmo Emma Johnson

Acolytes (10:45 a.m.) Cecelia Kivell, Carter Loring

Annika Richardson, Madison Smith

Bronwyn McDermott, Madeline McDermott

Carter Loring, Cecelia Kivell

Sacramental Ministers (8:30 a.m.)

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

Carole Cole, Jill Eastman, Connie DeGrote, Sandy Ahrens, Rose Turnacliff

Bethel Youth Abbie Meierbachtol, Marcia Omdahl, Sandy Reiman, Pat Stahly, Barb Holm

Sacramental Ministers (10:45 a.m.)

Jean & Henry Mueller, Dan Foley, Kristi Huettl, Barb Farmer

Barb Neitzel, Cindy Kreis, Ben & Jill Fisher, Sandy Germundson

Bethel Youth Roger & Vikki Van Veldhuizen, Sandy Germundson, Dottie Hammer, Jeanette Nelson

Ushers (8:30 a.m.) Ellis Lysne, Bob Vanderhoof, Dale Turnacliff, Dick Johnson

Gordon & Marilyn Kelley, Char & David Jacobsen

Bethel Youth Steve Meierbachtol, Jim Moberg, Roger Glasgow, Mike Graff

Ushers (10:45 a.m.) Ellis Lysne, Steve & Carol O’Neill, Juley Jenkinson

Kurt Neitzel, Roger VanVeldhuizen, Steve & Carol O’Neill

Bethel Youth Barb & Tadd Henwood, Chad & Juley Jenkinson

Greeters (8:30 a.m.) Patsy & Larry Trusty Jeanine Johnson, Marianne Resendiz

Dennis & Tania Will Jeanine Johnson, Eric Lundin

Greeters (10:45 a.m.) Jackie & Tracy Nelson Lisa McDermott, Melissa Beithon

Janelle & Steve Johnson Lisa McDermott, Melissa Beithon

Nametags (8:30 a.m.) Loren & Mary Baumbach Curt & Ruth Johnson Matt Patterson, Mary Nystuen

Dennis & Tania Will

Nametags (10:45 a.m.) Curt & Ruth Johnson Jackie & Tracy Nelson Mike & Susie Puppe Jackie & Tracy Nelson

Coffee Servers Loren & Mary Baumbach, Patsy & Larry Trusty, Marianne & Noe Resendiz

Mary Nystuen, Lisa & Scott Carlson, Jess & Chris Holz, Dawn Patterson

Janelle & Steve Johnson, Mary Nystuen, Heidi & Brian Schmoll, Terry Johnson, Lisa McDermott (treats)

Eric Lundin, Terri & Kraig Quamme, Lisa & Scott Carlson, John & Marcia Omdahl, Lisa McDermott (treats), Melissa Beithon (treats)

The Bethel Banner The Bethel Banner

April 2013

A Measure of Our Commitment March Worship Attendance average per Sunday

2010 2011 2012 2013

525 541 487 *478

Average Year-to-date Worship Attendance

2010 2011 2012 2013

522 495 489 *471

* Does not include March 24 or March 31

The Bethel Banner is published monthly as a ministry of Bethel Lutheran Church of Northfield, Minnesota. The congregation is invited to submit articles to the church office. Articles are due by the 15th of each month. Questions, suggestions, or comments? Contact editor Lisa McDermott at [email protected], by phone at 645-0740, or call the church office at 786-6674.

April 2013 April 2013

April 7 April 14 April 21 April 28

Altar Care Carol Lysne Rosann Brawley Alyce Kivell Tammy & Randy Christel

Communion Angels

Alice Dale, Arlene Neil Sharon Stoeck, Kay Gredvig Carol Cole Elaine Deim, Dick and

Orpah Johnson

A/V Room (8:30 a.m.) Seth Hanson Jack Beaumaster

Jordan Ett Dan Langehough

Seth Hanson Liam Fisher

Jordan Ett Ruth Nelson

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

Nathan Dahlen Joe Kreis

David Kreis Anders Peterson

Andrew Kivell Rose Mibus

Ben Coleman Joe Kreis

Service Group Chairperson: Dawn Patterson, 612-701-5810

readings, hymn singing, anointing of hands, and a caregiver's psalm.

Following the service there will be refreshments, massage therapists, and a time for fellowship. "Restore, Replenish, Renew" was initiated in 2000 by a local network of parish nurses. They wanted to offer a worship service that would reinvigorate the spiritual side of those who provided prolonged care.

A service of inspiration and renewal for caregivers, featuring music, meditation, and prayer will be held on Tuesday, April 16, 7 p.m. at St. John's Lutheran Church in Northfield.

Called "Restore, Replenish, Renew," this service is designed for anyone who is providing care or services to persons in need. This includes family caregivers, nurses, physicians, healthcare workers, therapists, clergy, and volunteers. The service will include a litany for healing,

Service of Renewal for Caregivers Northfield Retirement Community, Three Links, Northfield Interfaith Association, and Northfield Hospital & Clinics are sponsoring the service.

From Our Mission Interpreter... By Lois Stratmoen

A congregation looking to maintain, add on, or remodel its building, or even to build its first building, can apply for a loan from MIF. The MIF offers competitive rates and a simpler fee structure than banks. Borrowers also know that the money they have borrowed is from faithful people who desire to help the church grow, and they are the beneficiaries of the interest repaid on the loans.

The MIF works with a congregation throughout the process to determine the feasibility of their goals. Lending decisions are not based solely on finances, but rather on the potential loan’s impact on ministry. A loan is not possible just because the congregation can afford to pay it off, but only if the congregation can pay on the loan and continue to do ministry. Similarly, the MIF has a history of working with congregations that do encounter hard

[The following article is from the Bridge, a monthly publication of the Southeastern Minnesota Synod.]

Saving and Borrowing for Ministry

When you invest your money in a bank, do you know where your money goes, how it earns interest? What about when you lend? Where did that money come from?

People, congregations, and ministries who invest or borrow from the ELCA’s Mission Investment Fund (MIF) know. Investors’ money goes directly toward building ministry right here in the ELCA.

“The Mission Investment Fund exists to fulfill a very simple yet direct idea: to help congregations grow the church and individuals to grow their finances,” says LuAnn Ferguson, Region 3 Manager of the MIF.

The Bethel Banner

I want to thank all of you so much for prayers, thoughts, cards, kind words, and hugs so freely given during my Mom's illness and passing. Brian, Patrick, Aaron, & I deeply appreciate our family here in Northfield. It became so clear to me during my time away that Northfield and Bethel ARE home.

Carolyn Walker

It was almost nine years ago that the Bethel community held my mom, Arlean McDonald, in the weekly prayers for many months as she recovered from a head injury. When she visited Bethel after her amazing/miraculous recovery, she was able to meet and thank people at Bethel personally for their prayers and to feel the support of this community. Now, upon her death we, as a family, are once again reminded of the gift of this

community of believers. Thank you so much for the prayers, cards, offers of support, and multiple gestures of love and compassion. We are indeed blessed by your acts of love. Bethel community, you continue the song.

Eric, Sarah, Grace and Simon McDonald

We were greatly comforted by the outpouring of sympathy at the death of Bruce’s Uncle, Ocie Mills. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.

Bruce and Pam Santerre

Your generosity made our day! Thank you so much for your gift in the amount of $916.67 for Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota. Your congregation has many options for its benevolence dollars. We deeply appreciate you choosing LSS. Your gift helps those we serve change their lives and transform communities. Thank

We have so much to be thankful for...

times to find a mutually beneficial solution.

Investing with the MIF is a way for those with a heart for mission to make their money count in the life of the church. The majority of their money goes to congregations in the ELCA with a percentage kept back in conservative, liquid funds to be available for withdrawal. Throughout the nearly 100 year history of the MIF and its predecessors, no one has lost even a penny in investments with the MIF.

Ferguson says that her ten-year-old son is learning about mission through his investment with the MIF. She explains, “When the statements come we use them as a tool to explain how the money is used to help tell people about Jesus, and he just thinks that’s really cool.”

Deborah Ann Norrie has given

you again for your important contribution. We needed your support, and you were there.

Pastor Mary Brown, LSS

Your recent gift to Feed My Starving Children of $215.50 is making a life-saving difference. Enough for 979 meals, it is helping us care for God's littlest and hungriest around the world. Thank you for your generosity and partnership.

Mark Crea, Feed My Starving Children

� Bethel often receives more thank you notes than we have space available. Some of those published are edited due to space constraints. Thank you for all you give!

April 2013

The Eighteenth Annual Bethel Lutheran Church

Garage Sale!

Friday, May 17, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, May 18, 8 a.m. to Noon

$3 Bag Sale on Saturday from 10 a.m. to Noon Once again, it’s time to clean the basement, the closets, the garage, and the cupboards! Items we especially need: ♦ Clean clothing on hangers for men, women, and children. ♦ Clean household items, including electrical appliances (but only if they work!) ♦ Collectibles and antiques ♦ Furniture ♦ Garage and lawn items (tools, yard equipment, mowers, etc., as long as they’re clean!) ♦ Bake sale items (see below)

Help is Needed in All Areas of the Sale!

Set-Up: Monday, May 13, at 8 a.m., we will begin to set up tables in the Christian Life Center and the Bethel Youth Center. We especially appreciate men’s help. Also, we are in need of extra card tables. May we borrow them for the sale? Put your name on the bottom and set them in the coat area in the west hall ahead of time. Thanks very much!

Bring Your “Treasures” to Church: Monday, May 13, through Wednesday, May 15, we will be accepting your items for the sale from noon to 8 p.m. Please bring clean clothing and put shirts/skirts/dresses on hangers. Hangers will be available in the coat area across from the CLC for two Sundays prior to the sale. This really speeds up the sorting process! Please attach a label to any bed linens as to size (twin, full, etc.) If you need large furniture-type items picked up, let us know ahead of time to make arrangements. Also, let us know about any special items you will be donating so that we can include them in the newspaper ad. Please note - we will not be accepting computers, printers, VCRs, TVs, exercise equipment, or car seats. All household items must be clean and in working order.

Assistants - We will need: ♦ Many assistants each day from 1-5 p.m. and each evening from 5-8 p.m. to sort and arrange. (Please come and stay as

long as you can.) ♦ Many on Thursday, May 16, for pricing. ♦ 10-14 workers for each four-hour shift during the hours of the sale. ♦♦♦ Special Need: CleanSpecial Need: CleanSpecial Need: Clean---up volunteers on Saturday, noon to 3 p.m. up volunteers on Saturday, noon to 3 p.m. up volunteers on Saturday, noon to 3 p.m. ♦ Lunch and snacks are provided to all workers during the sale! ♦ Sign-up sheets will be available on the information table in the Narthex or email your availability to

[email protected]. Youth are always welcome!

Bring Your Goodies for the Bake Sale!

This has been a big hit in the past. Bakers may drop off their favorite goodies for the bake sale to be held during the garage sale on Friday and Saturday. Bring your homemade cakes, cookies, bars, breads, jams, etc., and Elaine Deim will see that they bring in top dollars! Attend the sale early as these items go quickly.

If you have any questions, contact the “Garage Sale Gang”: Bonnie Pavek 645-5820 Elaine Deim 645-9285 Bonnie Johnson 663-1146 Judy Code 645-5154 Juley Jenkinson 645-4558 Marilyn Kelley 663-6068

Treasures

Needed!

Bethel Lutheran Church is a body of believers redeemed by Christ who

Call and welcome all people;

Act to serve our neighbors in need;

Respond with God’s love to one another; and

Encourage spiritual growth.

Bethel Staff Timothy McDermott, Senior Pastor ................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Charlie Ruud, Associate Pastor ......................................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Barb Farmer, Director of Youth Ministries .................... 786-8877 .......... [email protected] Rhonda Reece, Director of Music and Worship ............ 786-8874 .......... [email protected] Sandy Peterson, Office Administrator ............................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Pam Santerre, Pastoral Minister ........................................ 786-8951 .......... [email protected] Pam Vig, Director of Children’s Ministries ..................... 786-8878 .......... [email protected] Darla Dahl, Church Accountant ....................................... 786-6687 .......... [email protected] Alice Carson, Secretary/Receptionist ............................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Catherine Engle, CYF Assistant ........................................ 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Bruce Dueffert, Lead Maintenance ................................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Ken Hu, Janitor .................................................................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Dan Kallman, Adult Choir Director ................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Jill Mahr, Youth Handbell Director .................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Elizabeth Shepley, Children’s Choir Director ................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Juley Jenkinson, Nursery Coordinator ............................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Tim Freeland, A/V Room Manager ................................. 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Church Library ..................................................................... 786-6674 .......... [email protected] Bethel Banner submissions .................................................. ........................... [email protected] Pastoral Care Emergencies ................................................. 786-6674

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

Email: [email protected]

● ● ● Return Service Requested

Non-Profit Organization

U.S. Postage Paid

Northfield, MN

55057

Permit No. 138

April Banner

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