May 2016 Newsletter - Bethany Lutheran Church

Bethany
Bells
The monthly newsletter of BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH
110 West Austin St. Fredericksburg, Texas
Phone 830-997-2069 Fax 830-990-8916 www.bethanyfredericksburg.com
“Being, Living as, and Making Disciples of Jesus Christ”
MAY 2016
Do Languages Scare or Comfort?
By Pastor Casey
I know of a woman who grew up in the 1940s, spending her
elementary years hearing radio reports on World War II. One day she
traveled to Fredericksburg with her parents—and was terrified of
people who were speaking German. Granted, today you hear
German and Spanish spoken daily in Gillespie County and no one
thinks a thing of it. But have you been in a situation when people
around you were speaking a language you didn’t know and you felt
threatened and scared? Maybe it was a 22-year-old guy saying, “Bae,
you’re slayin’ today. Your hair is on fleek. Bible. Wanna roll with my
squad?” It’s English, but you’re either not hip or over 40 and don’t
know have a clue as to what he just said! Or you’re in a secluded
area and you’re approached by big guys wearing hoodies and
speaking French, Vietnamese, or Hindi.
But what happens when you’re in another country where nary a soul
is speaking English and you’re lost and confused and suddenly
someone says, “May I help you?” Ah, rain and joy in Beulah land!
Someone knows your language. Which is how Parthians, Medes,
Elamites, and Arabs felt on that first Pentecost when the Spirit came
upon the disciples and they spoke to all the “foreigners” in town in
their own languages. That’s the work of God’s Holy Spirit: barriers,
broken down. How do you participate in that work?
New Members Received
April 10
May 8
th
Bethany received new members during worship on
Sunday, April 10th. We welcome these folks:
Burleigh & Sue Arnecke
Joe Bell
Lee & Marty Giscion
Aileen Hayes
Pat Hoffmann
Geoffrey & Erin Huff,
Caitie, Natalie & Zane Huff
Larry & Rebecca Johnson
Josephine Starr
Youth Sunday
at Praise & Worship May 29
Bethany youth will lead the 10:25 Praise and Worship Service on
Sunday, May 29, in the fellowship hall. Come and be inspired and
nourished by our young worship leaders.
May 5, 2016 at MarktPlatz
National Day of Prayer will be Thursday May 5, 2016. This year it
will be a 5:30 p.m. (instead of noon hour) in order to involve
children in this important day. A.J. Loth will have Praise and
Worship along with Lindsey Brown with Duncan Holmes on the
keyboard. Our focus this year is on OUR CHILDREN. Young people
are invited to give testimonies. Those gathered will be praying for
our country, military and education. Want to eat? West End will
sell a good slice of pizza for $2.50. David Herrera will sell BBQ and
also give his testimony.
FAMILY – “Like branches on a tree, we all grow in different directions yet
our roots remain as one.”
2
BLC Dollars & Cents
General Fund
Year-to-Date 2016
March 2016
Income
$ 154,779.97
Income
$ 55,671.91
Expenses $ 146,330.63
Expenses
$ 50,199.58
(2015) Year to Date Surplus: $8,479.34

Other Funds
Hennig Improvement Fund – Year to Date for 2016
Income: $ 3,750.00
Expenses: $3,980.23
Hennig Fund Balance: $20,112.39
Capital Improvement Fund - Year 2016
Income-Year: $ 708.34
Expenses-Year $5,000.00
Balance Capital Improvement Fund: $42,869.08
BBVA/Compass–Money Market Account Balance $105,957.76
ELCA Loan Fund (Investment Account) $35,000.00
Monthly Special Offerings
January for Der Stadt Friedhof - $2,650
February-Gillespie Co Job Corp - $1,765
March-New Horizons/Living Well - $1,690
Thank you to so many who are faithful volunteers who come
monthly to assemble the quilts. Donated items such as cotton
fabrics as well as school or baby care items. Thanks to those who
cut fabric squares & saved pieced quilt tops at home. Thanks to
Hope Circle for selling Free Trade items such as coffee &
chocolates to raise funds for shipping all the goods overseas.
23
BETHANY HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH
Summer 2016
Destination: Oaks Indian Mission, Oaks, Oklahoma
Dates: July 6 – 11 (proposed)
Objective: We will engage in Bible study & emersion
into the Oaks community to build faith & develop
cross-cultural skills. In a diverse & multi-cultural
world, being able to interact with neighbors of
multiple cultures & faith backgrounds shapes us to
be whole people of God. The mission started in
1801 Springplace, GA as a relationship between the
Cherokee people & Moravian Missionaries. The
mission initially was education & over the years it
prepared many of the tribe’s leaders. The
Moravians were so well respected amongst the
Cherokee people that they were one of two
denominations
that
were
agents
of
the
governments. For more information, contact Kiesha
at the church office 997-2069.
The greatest worth is not what we get but what we give. This is
the gauge by which we should live. Not merely the joys that come
our way but the help we give to those astray. Not the rewards of
money & fame but the loads we lift in mankind’s name. This be the
pay at the end of the day not what we keep but what we give
away.
Thank you to everyone who
donated candy & helped with the
Easter Egg Hunt! We had a
great turnout!
22
Pentecost Sunday
Celebrate the Spirit
May 15
Wear red on Sunday!
Sunday, May 15 is the Day of Pentecost throughout the world. The
day is the third major festival besides Easter and Christmas and
celebrates the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the church. The
liturgical color of the day is red. So, let’s wear red! Red dresses, red
pants, red socks, red shoes, red earrings. If it’s red, wear it!
Confirmation Students
Sunday May 15
Bethany Will Honor Bethany’s Class
The day of Confirmation for
Bethany eighth graders will
be Sunday, May 15th, which
this year is the Day of
Pentecost. On Saturday,
April 23, the eighth graders
and their parents spent a
day on retreat with Kiesha
Priem, Pastor Travis &
Pastor Casey.
River Andrichyn
Elias Christensen
Lexi Cole
Charis Coolidge
Luke Duderstadt
Kaegan Dorethy
Jacob Jenschke
Megan Jinright
Lauren Kennedy
Shelby Pitts
Jessen Stableford
Zachary Willis
Sydney Windham
Kora Young
 We also offer our congratulations to Jarris Hawkins, who will be
confirmed at Zion & Briar Schmidtzinsky, who will be confirmed at
St. Paul, Cave Creek.
 Thank you to our small group leaders, who were with the kids on
Wednesdays & have been involved in these students’ lives the past
two years: Sheila Donovan, Monica Jinright, Kathy Marquart & Trey
Schnelle.
3
Bethany’s Graduates
Recognized
Sunday, May 22
Bethany’s graduating seniors will be
honored on Sunday, May 22 with a
luncheon put on by CYFM. Each
graduate will receive a quilt from our Women’s Quilting group and a
laundry basket filled with gifts from the congregation. There will be a
Baccalaureate Service held at 6:00pm at St. Mary’s Catholic Church
this same day. Graduates are:
Drew Bonillas
Jacob Coolidge
Arleen Ibanez
Jacqueline Maldonado
Shayla Pitts
Dylan Sands
Seth Seip
Lauren Smith
Carissa Wehmeyer
We also would like to congratulate Dayton Eckhardt Hayes
on graduating this year. He lives in California &
will not be present with us this day.
Baccalaureate service at St. Mary’s at 6:00 p.m.
Thank you to everyone who donated
for the Any Baby Can service project.
We collected 450 diapers, 229
articles of clothing, 40 blankets, 7
pairs of shoes, and 2 strollers.
APRIL2016
ASSISTED LIVING NURSING HOME COMMUNION
Location
Knopp Care Ctr
Knopp #2
Heritage Place
Paige House
Day
Time
Wed Apr 6
Wed Apr 6
Thur Apr 7
Thur Apr 7
9:30
10:00
9:30
10:00
Location
Windcrest
FBG
Knopp RC
Knopp #1
Day
Time
Wed Apr 13
Wed Apr 13
Thur Apr 14
Thur Apr 14
9:30
10:30
9:30
10:30
Bethany: January/April/July/October
Holy Ghost: March/June/September/December
Zion: February/May/August/November
FBG NURSING HOME *Verna Mae Engel *Harriett Whitehead
HERITAGE PLACE
*Marialyce Dittmar *Joanne Collins *Lib Mohr *Marge Clifton
KNOPP HEALTHCARE & REHAB CTR (#1)
*Jerry Evans *Dulcie Klein *Harriett Klett *Marilyn Ottmers
*Rubye Wolfe *Opal Schnelle *Cellie Dietel *Charles Sagebiel
KNOPP Care (#2)
*Pauline Enderlin *Melvin Beckmann *Louis Dietrich *Evelyn Rose
KNOPP (Rehab & Assisted Living) *Doris Petsch
KNOPP RETIREMENT *Marilyn Treptow *Dorothy Weitz *Roseda Itz
MORNING STAR MEMORY CTR *Adeline Carter *Ron McCready
WINDCREST NURSING & REHAB *Bill Allen
VA NURSING *Richard Parsons
RIVER HILLS/KERRVILLE *Karen Leyendecker Sims
ALPINE TERRACE NURSING/Kerrville, TX *Louise Jung
SAN ANTONIO: *Lucille Knirsch
ORCHARD PARK OF KYLE, TX *Lorene Avant
Norma Grace
2525 Lillian Miller Parkway, Apt 211
Denton, TX 76210
1-940-218-6588
Nelda Simonsen
23 Leonard Trail, Apt 3115
Westworth, TX 76114
1-817-377-3961
Noelle Christensen
Always with us… Forty days after Easter, we celebrate Jesus’
ascension into heaven. This occurred 10 days before Pentecost,
when the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus’ followers, as he had
promised. Jesus’ ascension reminds Christians that although His
body couldn’t remain present everywhere, we can universally
experience His spiritual presence. In fact, Jesus’ final words to His
disciples – and to us- contain this key promise: “I am with you
always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28: 20)
4
A great teacher from two millennia ago, Jesus of
Nazareth, the Son of God, freely chose to show our
Maker’s everlasting love for us by offering to take all of our
flaws, darkness, death & mistakes into His very body. The
result was His death on a cross. But the story doesn’t end
there. God raised Him from the dead & invites us to believe
this truth in our hearts & follow Jesus into eternal life.
21
DATES TO REMEMBER
Coffee Sales Help Many
When you purchase Fair Trade coffee on the third
Sunday each month, you help provide fair wages
for coffee workers overseas and you help send
Bethany quilts throughout the world! This past
year, our coffee sales raised $586 which was used
to ship
to Lutheran World Relief the 200 quilts and kits
made by our Wednesday Bethany Quilting Women. Thank you for
your support!
Did You Catch That Quilt Number?
May 1: Synod Assembly
May 5: Ascension of the Lord
May 8: Mother’s Day
May 15: Pentecost & Confirmation Day
May 22: Baccalaureate for Grads 6pm @
St. Mary’s.
May 22: Trinity Sunday
May 27-28: Youth Parking Lot Fundraiser
May 30: Memorial Day
Theology on Tap to Take a Break
After 2 1/2 years of gathering for conversations, Theology on
Tap will take a break for the near future. The event will not take
place in April or May. I have tentatively scheduled Theology on
Tap to return in June 2016. Watch the bulletin and Bells for
further announces. Thank you to all who have supported this
platform for fellowship, conversation, and growing in faith.
Peace, Pastor Travis
Thank you for your generous support of Lutheran Disaster
Response Your leadership in this work of our church makes
a difference for families & communities in the midst of
disaster. Blessings to you as you continue to live out God’s
call to love our neighbor. Lutheran Disaster Response
Did you notice that number
in the previous article? Our
Bethany Quilters made 200
quilts this year! Plus,
they’ve made some extras
for our Bethany graduating
seniors.
Parking Lot Fundraiser May
27-29
Are you going to the Crawfish Festival at
the end of this month? If so, our youth will
be providing close parking spaces! Again this year, you can park in
Bethany’s back lot and the fee at the entrance benefits Bethany
youth events and ministries. So come and enjoy crawfish while your
vehicle helps support our youth! Tell your friends about it too.
FIRST COMMUNION Congratulations
to our First Communion students: Baleigh
Grobe, Brooklyn Grobe, Ryan,
Langehennig, Dillon Stableford, Nathan
White, Jordan Zenner. Blessings on them
as they continue their faith journeys.
5
20
Wine & the Word @ Lost Draw
Sunday, May 8th 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Wine and the Word will be held on Sunday,
May 8. We will meet at Lost Draw Cellars
from 4 to 6pm. Join us for fellowship, faith
conversation & great wine!
YOUTH EVENT
SCHEDULE
May 1, 9:15
May 22nd
May your home be blessed with the courage of compassionate
hearts, seeing the greatness in every soul. May the garden of
your heart bloom with even the smallest of kind acts, giving
your life the gift of divine purpose.
BIBLE QUIZ:
Which books of the
Bible include an
account of Jesus’
ascension?
A. Luke & Acts
B. Matthew & Luke
C. Mark & John
D. All four gospels
6
May 10, 5:306:30
May 4, 4-5:00
May 11, 4-5:00
May 15
May 22
May 27-28
May 29
May 29-30,
4:30pm-8am
June 11-18
July 6-11
Aug 1-5
Jr. High & High School Worship
Planning during the Sunday School
Hour
8th Grade & Parents Confirmation
Preparation
6th & 7th grade night
6th & 7th grade night
Confirmation Sunday
Graduating Senior Luncheon &
Baccalaureate Service
Youth Parking Lot Fundraiser for
Crawfish Festival
Youth Service (@ 10:25
Contemporary Service
High School Movie Night & Lock-In
Confirmation Camp at Rainbow
Trail in Hillside, Colorado
High School Oaks Indian Mission
Immersion Trip in Oaks, Oklahoma
Day Camp & VBS (There are still
spots available. Please fill out a
registration form & return to Kiesha
ASAP.
You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your
mountain is waiting, so get on your way. Dr. Seuss
19
1
Lisa Robison
Zana Smith
Ruby May Stahl
Don Weeks
5
Herbert Hoffmann
Wesley Keener
Kinsley Magee
Trish Schmidt
Anthony Starr
8
Alicia Elrod
Carol Itz
Halston Staudt
11
Jacqueline Maldonado
14
Mandy Yocham
17
Betty Buchmeier
Calvin Grobe
Pam Schnelle
21
Art Geistweidt
Bryant Gold
Keaton God
Claudia Kemper
Matthew Myers
Joyce Richey
24
Keelie Bryson
28
Maidson Rheinhardt
18
2
Kylee Dorethy
Marc Grobe
3
Marilyn Dietz
Daniel Tiemann
6
Roy Enderlin
Joshua Russell
Constance Schultz
7
Devon Perry
Sandy Swearingen
9
J. D. Neans
10
Shaylin Bertelson
Emma Cleaton
Victor Meier
13
Matthew Dulaney
Camille Williamson
16
May Eilers
Becca Tiemann
20
Holly McQuay
12
Weldon Itz
Zachary Maner
15
Amy Evans
18
Janice Sands
Sabastian Williams
22
John Dulaney
Megan Staudt
Edward Stein
Eli Wassenich
26
Colton Fritz
29
Kristi Coolidge
Kelly Dooley
Beverly Mosel
Joe Straube
23
Thomas James Lentz
Charles Reaves
Taysha Slaughter
27
Stephanie Sanchez
31
Mary Bachmayer
Sheila Petsch
Wilbur Pressler
HOSPITAL/CLINIC/ER:
Bill Allen, Mari Bull, Dorothy Cornehl,
Tuttie Geistweidt, Doris Herbort, Boyce
Hoffmann, Nancy O’Neal, Bernice
Reaves, Lara Nixon Rivera, Luther Rode
& Robert Wolf
ONGOING: Rick Burgess & Diana Clifton
OUR SYMPATHY:
 Lyn Linka at the death of her husband Bob Linka; memorial
service was at Bethany on April 16.
 Karen & Ralph Rode at the death of Karen’s mom, Pat Lozo.
 Carlene Grobe & the Grobe family at the death of her sister-in-law,
Alice Grobe Weiershausen.
OUR CONGRATULATIONS to DeAnne & David Peterson at the birth
of grandson Payton Layne McKeener on March 3.
THANKSGIVING FOR
Abel
Jaimes & all who helped with his “Uniting Souls to Gather
Soles” show project;
Noelle
Christensen & all who helped with her “Any Baby Can”
project.
Dieter Kemper & Robin Pfannstiel, who will be participating at a
Kairos event, ministering to people in prison.
And if I should go before you, know that part of me still remains. You will
not see me, yet I will be there walking beside you. You will not touch me,
yet I will live in your heart & memory always. Have faith that we will one
day walk hand in hand in eternity. Until then, live your life for life is good
& know that I am with you.
Breakfast Bar @ 9:00!
LEGACY BUILDERS CLASS with Williamsons & Keeners in room #115. For
April & May the Legacy Builders Class will Andy Stanley's “Follow”.
ADULT BIBLE: The April topic is, “What the Preacher Didn’t say.” The texts
read during Sunday worship always have more to say than the sermon!
Pastor Casey & Pastor Travis for “lectionary” study in the overflow of the
sanctuary. The lectionary is the list of Bible readings each Sunday.
TRANSITIONS: with Linda Davis and Lucinda Zesch meets in room #106.
The class is primarily aimed at the Baby Boomer generation but all are
welcome. The class is appropriate for new Christians as well as seasoned
Christians wanting to grow in faith.
7
A teacher takes a hand, opens a mind &
touches a heart.
MAY SPECIAL OFFERING
Bethany Preschool
In His Service, Stephanie Sanchez, Director
The special offering for the month of May
is Bethany Preschool. The Preschool is an
outreach ministry of Bethany Lutheran Church
that has been serving the needs of families in
the Fredericksburg community since 1983.
Over the past 32 years, Bethany Preschool
has become a well-respected part of the early
childhood education community in Fredericksburg. Perhaps the
greatest testament to the quality of our program is the numerous
“second generation” students we enroll, the children of our alumni,
who feel that Bethany gave them the best possible start in life, and
who are now choosing that same path for their own children.
Our enrollment consists of 84 students ranging in age from 2 to
12 years. Though some of our students are members of Bethany,
many have never heard the Good News of Jesus until they attend
our program. Every student is provided loving care, a robust
preschool curriculum, and spiritual guidance through the diligent
efforts of our dedicated staff. Bethany Preschool is blessed to
have a wonderful group of women on staff which consists of our
Director, Stephanie Sanchez, Office Manager Joyce Richey, and 9
talented teachers: Christine Price, Ariana Cisneros, Mandi Priess,
Nataly Lejia, Irene Gurrola, Shyla Smith, Hillary Rabke, Shiloh
Ottmers, and Kimberly Wendel. Each week is filled with ageappropriate activities and curriculum that help fulfill our mission of
“Sharing the Love of Christ and Developing the Whole Child”. The
children also attend Chapel once a week in the Sanctuary.
Chapel is guided by Pastor Casey, Pastor Travis, and Kiesha
Priem who lead the students in learning and singing Chapel songs
and a lesson from God’s Word. As you can see, our days are
busy and full of learning, exploration, and growth.
Two summers ago, we incorporated a new program to meet the
needs of children who are in Kindergarten through the Fifth grade
with working parents. We provide full time summer and school
vacation care as well as after-school care during the school year
with transportation from Fredericksburg Primary School,
Fredericksburg Elementary School, Heritage and Ambleside
Private School. This program has been a great success growing
from just 8 students our first summer to an expected 30 students
Continued
8
We ask that you will prayerfully consider giving your
support to Bethany Preschool as this ministry continues to
grow and make an impact on the children and families of
our community by providing a Christian beginning to the
education of the youngest and most impressionable among
us. We appreciate your prayers and continued provision of
this ministry as we strive to provide the best possible care
for these children. See Pages 16 & 17.
WELCA Board will meet May 31
for the June Board Meeting @
Constance’s home.






Leah: May 5 @ 9:30 off campus
Hope: May 10 @ 6PM at church.
Lydia: May 12 @ 9:15 at church
Crafters meet @ 9:30AM at Hennig Haus on May 18 @
Hennig Haus.
Quilting Ladies will meet May 11 @ 9:00AM.
Fair Trade Coffee Sales will be May 15.
Combined Circle Gathering is scheduled for Sunday,
May 1st at 11:45 at Karen Oestreich home, 204 W.
Orchard. Sign up with your circle Leader & invite a
guest. The speaker will be Nicki Zesch & the topic will be
“Human Trafficking.” The meal will be salads & desserts.
Sign up on the Bulletin Board.
The Quilting Ladies reached their goal of 200 Quilt tops,
500 School Supply Kits & 51 Baby Care Kits have been
prepared & shipped. Incredible work by these ladies.
Fair Trade Coffee Sales: Thanks to all who purchased &
donated as $586+ were used to ship the Quilts & Kits to
Lutheran World Relief.
The April gift from WELCA was made to
Mision de Candelilla chosen by Lydia Circle.
17
th
May 15 Bethany
Potluck!
SUNDAY SCHOOL AWESOME ATTENDANCE FOR MARCH
Kindergarten
1st Grade
2nd Grade
Brooklyn Stehling
Dario Jaimes
Brooklyn Schnelle
Bailee Treibs
Gema Thiele
Jayecee Treibs
Ava Perry
Jake White
Thank You to Ernest Celaya, Kathleen Celaya, Kim Sedgwick &
Joyce Thiele for teaching in March. Thanks also to the Treibs for
helping with the flowering of the cross on Easter!
God has blessed us richly…
Our family wishes to express thanks &
gratefulness to our Bethany Family for all
your acts of kindness given during Dick’s
illness & passing. Your outpouring of love
has been overwhelming! Thank you,
pastors, for your visits & words of
consolation & encouragement & to all of you who prayed for us,
sent cards, delivered a dish of food or a complete meal, gave a
memorial, served food at the reception or simply shared a hug. A
big thank you to the Chancel Choir for singing at Dick’s
Celebration of Life service & also providing food afterwards! We
are so bless to have all of you in our lives. Thanks be to God!
Peace—Chrissy Stuewe, Tim Steven, Mary & Families.
Food Pantry Summer
Needs
During the summer months, our local Food Pantry
receives less food from the Capital Area Food Bank, so the need for local
contributions increases. You can take food directly to the Food Pantry, just
off Highway Street at 701 Mustang St, or bring it to church & place it in the
“Food Pantry Box.” Flour 5lb bag, Sugar 1lb bag, Peanut Butter, Canned Meat
(tuna, other fish, chili, etc.), Soup, Cereal, Canned Vegetables & Canned Fruit.
Remember we are giving these items out to individual families & giant cans
are not as useful as the ordinary size cans. The Food Pantry is open Mon,
Wed, Fri from 1 pm to 5 pm.
16
BPS Continued…
and additional classroom this summer. This program continues to
be a blessing to many working parents. They are grateful for a safe,
fun, and caring place for their children after school and for a summer
program filled with fun, friendship, and learning for all children. We
are happy to report a full preschool and growing waiting list. This
school year we grew a bit more and added an additional preschool
class for older 3 year olds allowing 10 extra preschool spots for a
number of parents who had been patiently waiting for a space in our
school.
As part of the Special Offering, we will have two special
bulletin boards covered in envelopes. The envelopes will be split
between the boards and will be numbered from $1 to $141. You are
invited to choose an envelope (or envelopes) and fill it with a check
(or cash) for the amount listed. The envelopes may be placed in the
offering plate or in the box provided by the bulletin board. When all
envelopes have been taken and filled, we will have gathered over
$10,000 dollars. It sounds crazy, but we did the math!
Again this year, in addition to the envelopes, there will be
cards listing various items that our teachers like to have but aren’t
always in our budget. We would like to encourage you to take a card
and return the item to our baskets located under the bulletin board.
We ask that you will prayerfully consider giving your support to
Bethany Preschool as this ministry continues to grow and make an
impact on the children and families of our community by providing a
Christian beginning to the education of the youngest and most
impressionable among us.
We appreciate your prayers and
continued provision of this ministry as we strive to provide the best
possible care for these children.
Global Leadership Summit
Aug 11 – 12, 2016
This year, the Global Leadership Summit is coming
to Fredericksburg! This event is a world-class
experience designed to help you get better &
embrace your grander vision—the reason God
called you to lead. Holy Ghost Lutheran Church is
hosting it at the Hill Country University Center. Cost
is $189 or $149 if ten or more Bethany people attend. Speak
with Pastor Casey or Pastor Travis or check out the website:
http://willowcreek.com/events/leadership
9
Bethany Members at Synod Assembly
WOW! What an event. We served between 250 &
275, which was more than we expected. Thanks to
everyone who helped & pitched in to make it such a
successful event. Thanks to Lois as the decorations
were beautiful. Todd, the tables got set up so
smoothly. Randy, you had everything organized.
Dalton was terrific helping the
Band members find places to sit.
It was Joyce’s Confirmation class
& she did all the washing of the
dishes. Sandi, Gary, Bar, Wil,
Heide, Dieter, DeAnne, Jynette,
Constance, Jim, Ann, Karen L.
YAWL WERE GREAT! (If we
missed anybody we are truly
sorry). We also had kids helping
serve the water & team & helping
with the clean up! If anyone has
any suggestions for next year
please write them down & send
them to me. Karen & Dwight Oestreich
A great teacher from two millennia ago, Jesus of Nazareth,
the Son of God, freely chose to show our Maker’s
everlasting love for us by offering to take all of our flaws,
darkness, death & mistakes into His very body. The result
was His death on a cross. But the story doesn’t end there.
God raised Him from the dead & invites us to believe this
truth in our hearts & follow Jesus into eternal life.
10
Our Synod Assembly this year is in San Marcos and meets
under the theme from 1 Kings 17:11b "Bring me a morsel of
bread in your hand." Voting members from Bethany are Beth
Luckenbach, Danny Flink, Paul Hartmann, Pastor Travis,
and Pastor Casey. Dates are April 29 – May 1.
Summer Film+Fellowship Festival
Join us this summer for our 2nd
Annual Film+Fellowship Festival,
Thursday evenings in the summer!
ALL families are welcome to join
Bethany and Holy Ghost Lutheran
Churches on these fun filled
Thursdays! Come one night, or every night!
We’ll have popcorn, snow-cones, door prizes,
fellowship and movies!
Aladdin (G)
June 2, 6:30pm
Mighty Ducks (PG)
June 16, 6:30pm
The Land Before Time
(G)
Matilda (PG)
June 30, 6:30pm
Pocahontas (G)
July 28, 6:30pm
Star Wars Episode VThe Empire Strikes
back (PG)
Aug 11, 6:30pm
July 14. 6:30-pm
Holy Ghost
Fellowship Hall
Holy Ghost
Fellowship Hall
Holy Ghost
Fellowship Hall
Bethany
Fellowship Hall
Bethany
Fellowship Hall
Bethany
Fellowship Hall
15
MAY 2016 TRADITIONAL WORSHIP (8:00 & 10:30)
MAY 2016 TRADITIONAL WORSHIP (8:00 & 10:30)
Date
Sun
May
1
Time
8:00
10:30
USHERS
GREETERS
Todd Keener, Capt.
Dalton/Wesley Keener
Jerald Klett
Pat Cleaton
Kenneth Treibs, Capt., Jaye Treibs,
Jennifer Jenschke, Jacob Jenschke,
James Jenschke
Sun
May
8
Sun
May
15
Sun
May
22
8:00
10:30
8:00
Weldon Itz, Capt., Matthew, John &
Elizabeth Dulaney
Bruce Woerner
Dorothy Klier, Capt., Wayne Klier
Sandra Kammlah, Cindy Zenner
Denise
Stehling
Jet Itz
Time
8:00
8:00
10:30
Leland Geistweidt, Capt.,
Oliver/Mary Alice Deike
Larry Ottmers
Dwight Oestreich, Capt.
Karen Oestreich, Clara Kozielski
Shirley Sagebiel
Willard Dearing, Capt., Jerald Klett
Judy/MJ Dittmar
Todd Keener, Capt.
Dalton/Wesley Keener
Jerald Klett
Jim McAfee, Capt., Vic/Marian Nixon
Tom Roarick
MAY ALTAR GUILD
Traditional: Marjorie Ottmers, Shelba Fenimore,
Lindy Haley & Sharon Roarick
Praise & Worship: Pat Maenius & Winnie Griffin
COMMUNION Assistants
Audrey Gold & Anton Loest
May 1
Sun
8:00
10.30
May 8
Sun
May 15
Sun
May 22
Sun
8:00
10.30
8:00
10.30
8:00
10:30
May 29
Sun
8:00
10:30
Dorothy Klier
Ernie/Karen Loeffler
No Communion
No Communion
Dan & Donna Mittel
Jim McAfee, Capt., Sharon Joseph
Joyce Richey
John/Caroline Stafford
Leland Geistweidt, Keith/Eileen Whited
MAY 2016 PRAISE & WORSHIP (10:25)
JoAnn Leifeste
LEADER
KIDS MESSAGE
10:30
10:30
Sun
May
29
Jim Green, Capt.,
Linda McCann
Randy/Lois Busch
Kim & Mike
Sedgwick
Date
Joyce
Robertson
Vonnie Maner
Theresa
Schmidtzinsky
Wilma
McAndrew
James/Flora
Wallendorf
Sun
May
1
Sun
May
8
Ken Smith
Sun
May
15
Sandy
Swearingen
Sun
May
22
Sun
May
29
HOSTS
Communion Assistants
Communion 2nd & 4th Sundays
Prayer Minister
Al/Sissy Andrichyn
Lester/Holly Meier
No Communion
Ken Smith
Ken Smith
Erik Iverson
Beth Iverson
Tim/Dee Dahlstrom
Ethan Dahlstrom
PKrystal Geistweidt
Renee Pearson
Jackie Kneese
Will/Brooklyn Stehling
Sandy
Swearingen
Rocki HartmannWeldon/Winnie Griffin
Shane/Zack Willis
Rocki Hartmann
Mike Myers
Mike Myers
Carlie/Lexi Cole
Sem Geistweidt
Adam Geistweidt
Pastor, Erik/Beth Iverson,
Pat Hoffmann
Danny/Gayle McQuay
Beth Iverson
No Communion
Sandy Swearingen
Pastor, Rocki Hartmann
Stanley/Shirley Meier
Ed/Judy Kramer
Rocki Hartmann
Pastor, Mike Myers,
Cami/Curtis Coolidge
Deanne/Eric Christensen
Mike Myers
14
11
RADIO SERVICE: Bethany’s service is broadcast the 2nd Sunday of each month at
10:30 a.m. on KNAF-AM 910.
COMMUNION IN CHAIRS/PEWS: For those with walking difficulties in worship
services, the pastors & communion assistants are glad to bring the Lord’s Supper
to them. Please do 3 things to help: Sit near an aisle, tell an usher or worship host
when you enter & raise a hand as communion distributors walk by.
SERVING FOOD AFTER FUNERALS: When funerals are held for Bethany
members, we offer to serve sandwiches, cake & tea for the family & close friends.
Usually that’s around 20 – 50 folks. We’ll serve up to 100 (after 100, the family will
need to see about additional food).
CHURCH OFFICE HOURS: Normal hours are Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Staff meetings usually held Tuesday morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. [The second
week of the month staff meeting is held on Wed due to the Deanery meeting.]
TURN OUT THE LIGHTS AFTER MEETINGS, PLEASE!
FLOWER CHART: Sign-up charts in the narthex for traditional services & in the
fellowship hall lobby for praise & worship.
TAKING OUT THE TRASH: Whenever anyone serves food in the Fellowship
Hall, please take the trash to the dumpster.
HOSPITAL: If you are hospitalized, please call or have someone call the church
office to let the pastors know for visitation. You need to specifically put ‘Bethany’ on
your hospital registration form at check-in.
LOCK IT TWICE: Please remember when you leave the church at night to lock
each glass door twice. (1) crash-bar (2) outside knob.
FLOWER CHARTS: Those who wish to honor or memorialize loved ones,
or celebrate birthdays, anniversaries & special joys are encouraged to sign
up for flowers in the narthex for traditional and call church office to place
flowers for Praise and Worship Service.
16
Help Our Seniors
Bethany has many senior citizens who have difficulty
walking as well as some younger folks with disabilities.
HOW? If you can walk well, please reserve parking
spaces close to the building for those who have a
difficult time with long distances. It’s a way to show love.
It’s a small—but beautiful—example of the sacrificial life that Christ
taught us.
RECEIPTS A MUST: When you’re a servant volunteer at
Bethany, we want to provide the tools & supplies you
need, as approved by your overseeing committee or
staff. We must have a receipt for any purchase you
make using the Bethany business charge cards or when
you need personal reimbursement. Thank you for your
help & understanding!
PRIVATE EVENTS: Please do not block EXIT doors at any time during your
private event in the fellowship hall.
FOOD PANTRY: If each family in our congregation contributed just one can of
food what a difference we could make!
FBG CANCER RESOURCE CENTER is located in the Brune Professional
Building, a half block north of the Wellness Center & is available M-F. Call 9906648 for more information.
Ten days after Jesus ascended into heaven, the Holy Spirit
descended onto Jesus’ disciples. While they were gathering in
Jerusalem to celebrate the Jewish festival of Pentecost, the
disciples saw flames among & on them, heard a rushing wind &
began talking in many languages As a result, the disciples were
able to share the good news of Jesus in the native tongues of all
the pilgrims assembled in the city. Even today, the power of the
Holy Spirit fuels the “flame” that ignites Christians’ outreach efforts.
Only by the Spirit’s power can we know Christ & make him known
throughout the world.
BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH
Ministers: All Members of Bethany
*Rev. Casey Zesch *Rev. Travis Meier
Pastor of Visitation: Pastor Elliott Pancoast
Director of Youth & Children’s Ministries: Kiesha Priem
Office Administrator: Layne Perry
Financial Clerk: Berta Allen
Worship Coordinator: Marjorie Ottmers
Staff Assistant & Bells Editor: Suzanne Mitchell
Caretakers: John Stafford, Jim Green
Dieter Kemper, Tom Swearingen
Preschool Director: Stephanie Sanchez
Council President: Randy Busch
Staff Assistant & Bells Editor: Suzanne Mitchell
Caretakers: John Stafford, Jim Green
Dieter Kemper, Tom Swearingen
Preschool Director: Stephanie Sanchez
Council President: Randy Busch
YOUR FEBRUARY FUNNY!
Ever notice the older we get the more we’re like
computers? We start out with lots of memory & drive then
we become outdated & eventually have to get our parts
replaced.
FOREVER FRIEND
Jesus
…had no servants, yet they called Him Master.
…had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
…had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
…had no army, yet kings feared Him.
…won no military battles but He conquered the world.
…committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.
…was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.
…feel honored to serve such a Leader who loves us.
Someone who changes your life just
by being part of it.
Someone who makes you laugh
until you can’t stop.
Someone who makes you believe
that there is good in the world.
Someone who convinces you that
there really is an unlocked door just
waiting for you to open it.
This is Forever Friendship.
We’ll be friends until we’re old & senile then we’ll be new friends!
WOMEN’S
BIBLE STUDY
If I listen closely, I will hear the song of angels & I will know you are still with me.
“Anointed, Transformed,
Redeemed: A Study of
David”
Wednesdays @ 6:30
FAMILY like branches on a tree, we grow in different directions yet
our roots remain as one.
Nothing lasts forever…not even your troubles. Arnold Glasgow
A cursor used profanity.
A keyboard was a piano.
A web was a spider’s home.
A virus was the flu.
A CD was a bank account.
A hard drive was a long road trip.
A mouse pad was where a mouse lived.
The Woman Whispered…
Help Our Seniors
Bethany has many senior citizens who have difficulty walking
as well as some younger folks with disabilities.
HOW?
If you can walk well, please reserve parking
spaces close to the building for those who have a
difficult time with long distances. It’s a way to
show love. It’s a small—but beautiful—
example of the sacrificial life that Christ taught
us.
YOUR FEBRUARY FUNNY!
Ever notice the older we get the more
we’re like computers? We start out
with lots of memory & drive then we
become outdated & eventually have to
get our parts replaced.
Life before the
computer…
Memory was something you lost with age.
An application was for employment.
A program was a TV show.
"God, speak to me" and
a meadowlark sang. But, she did not hear.
So she yelled "God, speak to me". And the thunder rolled
across the sky. But, she did not listen. The woman looked
around and said, God let me see you." And a star shined
brightly. But she did not notice. And the woman shouted, "God
show me a miracle" And a life was born. But she did
not know. So the woman cried out in despair,
"Touch me God, and let me know you are here."
Where upon, God reached down and touched
her. But she brushed the butterfly away and
walked on. Don't miss out on a blessing because it
isn't packaged the way that you expect.
"You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the
strong.
You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging
thrift.
You cannot lift the wage earner up by pulling the
wage payer down.
You cannot further the brotherhood of man by
inciting class hatred.
You cannot build character and courage by taking
away people's initiative and independence.
You cannot help people permanently by doing for
them, what they could and should do for
themselves."
Abraham Lincoln
COMMITTEE REPS
Property & Mgmt:
Traditional Worship:
Praise & Worship:
CYFM:
Preschool Board:
Social Concerns:
Fellowship:
Finance:
Evangelism:
Stewardship:
Long Range Planning:
Gary McCready & Pr. Pancoast
Randy Busch, Pr. Casey & Pr. Travis
Erik Iverson, Pr. Casey, Pr. Travis
Monica Jinright & Kiesha Priem
Brittany Geistweidt & Pr. Casey
Keith Whited & Pr. Travis
Karen Loeffler & Pr. Casey
Paul Hartmann & Pr. Pancoast, Pr. Casey & Berta
Tammy Keener & Pr. Travis
Jean Weber & Pr. Travis
Bob Linka, Pr. Casey & Pr. Travis
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father and of
the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28: 19, NIV
Ten days after Jesus ascended into heaven, the Holy Spirit
descended onto Jesus’ disciples. While they were gathering in
Jerusalem to celebrate the Jewish festival of Pentecost, the
disciples saw flames among & on them, heard a rushing wind &
began talking in many languages As a result, the disciples were
able to share the good news of Jesus in the native tongues of all
the pilgrims assembled in the city. Even today, the power of the
Holy Spirit fuels the “flame” that ignites Christians’ outreach efforts.
Only by the Spirit’s power can we know Christ & make him known
throughout the world.
They laughed a little louder; they cried a little softer; they lived a
little stronger because they stood together as FRIENDS!
Food Pantry Summer
Needs
During the summer months, our local Food
Pantry receives less food from the Capital
Area Food Bank, so the need for local
contributions increases. You can take food directly to
the Food Pantry, just off Highway Street at 701 Mustang St, or bring it
to church and place it in the “Food Pantry Box.” Any donation is
appreciated. Often the most needed items are canned meats and
peanut butter.
 God's accuracy may be observed in the hatching of eggs...
For example:
-the eggs of the potato bug hatch in 7 days
-those of the canary in 14 days
-those of the barnyard hen in 21 days
-the eggs of ducks and geese hatch in 28 days
-those of the mallard in 35 days
-The eggs of the parrot and the ostrich hatch in 42 days.
(Notice, they are all divisible by seven, the number of days in a
week!) God's wisdom is seen in the making of an elephant: The
four legs of this great beast all bend forward in the same
direction. No other quadruped is so made. God planned that
this animal would have a huge body--too large to live on two
legs. For this reason, He gave it four fulcrums so that it can rise
from the ground easily. The horse rises from the ground on its
two front legs first. A cow rises from the ground with its two hind
legs first. How wise the Lord is in all His works of creation!
God's wisdom and perfect order is revealed in His arrangement
of sections and segments, as well as in the number of grains.
-Each watermelon has an even number of stripes on the rind.
-Each orange has an even number of segments.
-Each ear of corn has an even number of rows.
-Each stalk of wheat has an even number of grains.
-Every bunch of bananas has on its lowest row an even number
of bananas, and each row decreases by one, so that one row
has an even number and the next row an odd number.
The waves of the sea roll in on shore twenty-six to the minute in
all kinds of weather. All grains are found in even numbers on
the stalks, and the Lord specified thirty fold, sixty fold, and a
hundred fold all even numbers. God has caused the flowers to
blossom at certain specified times during the day. Linnaeus, the
great botanist, once said that if he had a conservatory
containing the right kind of soil, moisture, and temperature, he
could tell the time of day or night by the flowers that were open
and those that were closed! The lives of each of you may be
ordered by the Lord in a beautiful way for His glory, if you will
only entrust Him with your life. If you try to regulate your own
life, it will only be a mess and a failure. Only the One Who
made the brain and the heart can successfully guide them to a
profitable end.
I NO LONGER…have the patience for certain things not because I’ve become arrogant but
simply because I have reached a point in my life where I do not want to waste more time with
what displeases me or hurts me. I have no patience for cynicism, excessive criticism &
demands of any nature. I lost the will to please those who do not like me, to love those who do
not love me & to smile at those who do not want to smile at me. I no longer spend a single
minute on those who lie or want to manipulate. I decided not to coexist anymore with pretense,
hypocrisy, dishonestly & cheap praise. I do not tolerate selective erudition nor academic
arrogance. I do not adjust either to popular gossiping. I hate conflict & comparisons. I believe in
a world of opposites & that’s why I avoid people with rigid & inflexible personalities. In
friendship I dislike the lack of loyalty & betrayal. I do not get along with those who do not know
how to give a compliment or a word of encouragement. Exaggerations bore me & I have
difficulty accepting those who do not like animals. And on top of everything I have no patience
for anyone who does not deserve my patience.” Meryl Streep
BETHANY OFFERS A GREAT DEAL FOR YOUR CHILDREN
Sacred arts (1st-5th grades): Tuesdays
Jumpstart (6th grade): Wednesdays
Confirmation (7th-8th grades): Wednesdays
Cross Trainers (high school): Wednesdays
Disciple Crosswalks (all ages): Sundays
RECEIPTS A MUST: When you’re a servant volunteer at
Bethany, we want to provide the tools & supplies you need, as
approved by your overseeing committee or staff. We must have
a receipt for any purchase you make using the Bethany
business charge cards or when you need personal
reimbursement. Thank you for your help & understanding!
PRIVATE EVENTS: Please do not block EXIT doors at
any time during your private event in the fellowship hall.
FOOD PANTRY: If each family in our congregation
contributed just one can of food what a difference we
could make!
FBG CANCER RESOURCE CENTER is located in the
Brune Professional Building, a half block north of the
Wellness Center & is available M-F. Call 990-6648 for more information.
RADIO SERVICE: Bethany’s service is broadcast the 2nd Sunday of each month at
10:30 a.m. on KNAF-AM 910.
COMMUNION IN CHAIRS/PEWS: For those with walking difficulties in worship
services, the pastors & communion assistants are glad to bring the Lord’s Supper
to them. Please do 3 things to help: Sit near an aisle, tell an usher or worship host
when you enter & raise a hand as communion distributors walk by.
SERVING FOOD AFTER FUNERALS: When funerals are held for Bethany
members, we offer to serve sandwiches, cake & tea for the family & close friends.
Usually that’s around 20 – 50 folks. We’ll serve up to 100 (after 100, the family will
need to see about additional food).
CHURCH OFFICE HOURS: Normal hours are Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Staff meetings usually held Tuesday morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. [The second
week of the month staff meeting is held on Wed due to the Deanery meeting.]
TURN OUT THE LIGHTS AFTER MEETINGS, PLEASE!
FLOWER CHART: Sign-up charts in the narthex for traditional services & in the
fellowship hall lobby for praise & worship.
TAKING OUT THE TRASH: Whenever anyone serves food in the Fellowship
Hall, please take the trash to the dumpster. HOSPITAL: If you are hospitalized,
please call or have someone call the church office to let the pastors know for
visitation. You need to specifically put ‘Bethany’ on your hospital registration form
at check-in.
LOCK IT TWICE: Please remember when you leave the church at night to lock
each glass door twice. (1) crash-bar (2) outside knob.
HELP OUR SENIORS: Bethany has many senior citizens who have
difficulty walking as well as some younger folks with disabilities. HOW
CAN YOU HELP? If you can walk well, please save the close-in parking
places for those who have a difficult time. It’s a way to show love. It’s a
small—but beautiful—example of the sacrificial life that Christ taught us.
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM HEAVEN
part of this ePrayer group? If so, simply email Pastor Casey at
[email protected].
I still hear the songs. I still see the lights.
I still feel your love on cold wintery nights.
I still share your hopes & all of your cares.
I’ll even remind you to please say your prayers.
I just want to tell you, you still make me proud.
You stand head & shoulders above all the crowd.
Keep trying each moment to stay in His grace.
I came here before you to help set your place.
You don’t have to be perfect all of the time.
He forgives you the slip if you continue the climb.
To my family & friends please be thankful today.
I’m still close beside you in a new special way.
I love you all dearly now don’t shed a tear.
I’m spending my Christmas with Jesus this year.
©1989 John Wm. Mooney Jr.
Everything not saved will be lost!
Prayer: The world’s greatest
wireless connection.
DAD
A son’s first hero & a daughter’s first love.
Bethany Lutheran Church
THE CHURCH NEEDS YOUR HELP!
Please Complete & Return to Church Office! THANK YOU!
Name: ______________________ DATE: ______________
Phone: _________________________
Time and Talent Volunteer Form
Please indicate your areas of interest by checking or darkening the appropriate boxes
Bethany ePrayers
Email Prayer Chain Update
A number of Bethany members are part of our email prayer chain.
Whenever someone requests prayer, an email is sent and those
receiving it join in prayer for the people listed. Would you like to be
LEARNING TO KNOW GOD
Teacher
[] Sunday School
[] Shepherd (Helper)
[] Adult Classes
[] Bible School
(Summer)
[] Bible Study
[] Substitute Teacher
[] Confirmation
Mentor
Planner:
[] Adult Classes
[] Bible Studies
[] After School Programs
[] Special Seminars
[] Picnic Sunday
[] Christmas Program
[] Rally Day
Traditional Service
[] Usher Captain
8:00 AM___ 10:30 AM___
[] Usher
8:00 AM___ 10:30 AM___
[] Greeter
8:00 AM___ 10:30 AM___
[] Lector/Reader
8:00 AM___ 10:30 AM___
[] Communion Assistant
8:00 AM___ 10:30 AM___
[] Altar Guild: Month _______
[] Organist and/or Pianist
[] Cantor and/or Soloist
[] Instrument: _________
Helpers:
[] Sunday School
[] Bible School
(Summer)
[] After School
[] Children’s
Choir/Opening
[] Refreshments
[] Special Programs
[] Breakfast Bar
WORSHIP
Contemporary Service
[] Worship Host (Usher/Greeter)
[] Worship Leader (Leads prayers,
lessons, announcements)
[] Children’s Sermon Presenter
[] Guitar
[] Keyboard
[] Drums
[] Instrument: _____
[] Praise Team Voices
[] Set-up/Teardown Crew
CHOIR
[] Women’s Choir
[] Chancel Choir
YOUTH & CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES
GROUPS & PRAYER MINISTRIES
[] Adult Sponsor [] Bus Driver
[] High School [] Junior High
[] 6th Grade
[] 1st – 5th Grade
[] Provide snacks/drinks
[] Call & email reminders
[] Help with service projects
LEADERSHIP
Church Committees
[] Youth
[] Parish Education
[] Worship
[] Evangelism
[] Women’s Circles [] Men‘s group
[] Quilting
[] Disaster Response
[] Camp Chrysalis Work Projects
[] Prayer Chain: phone/email
[] Ramp Team
TIME & TALENT FORM
Church Committees
[] Stewardship
[] Social Concerns
[] Property & Management
[] Fellowship
[] Typing/Word Processing
[] Special Activities Organizer/Asst
[] Stuff Envelopes
[] Develop advertising materials/ stories
[] Newsletter ‘Troops’- Assembly Only
[] Greet/Meet New People
[] Art (Drawing, Painting)
[] Visiting/Talk with People re Bethany
[] Computer Work
[] Prepare/Serve refreshments-events
[] Sound System
[] New Members Sponsor
[] Power Point
SERVICE & CARE
Social Ministries
Would You Like to:
Church
“House & Yard Work”
[] Rides to Church
[] Be a foster parent
[] Rides to Doctor
[] Host a foreign exchange
[] Painting
[] Food for recently
student
[] Varnish/Rework
Lend a Hand
released hospital
Woodwork
patients
[] Coffee pot clean-up after
[] Cleaning/Special
[] Food for Funerals
late service
Projects
[] Funeral Food
[] Potluck clean-up
[] Custodian
Server
[] Prepare food for various
Substitute
[] Sit with Homebound
functions
[] Construction
[] Assist with Nursing
[] Set up tables & chairs for
Projects:
Home Communion
special functions
Interior___
[] Minor Home
[] Plan Senior Outings
Exterior___
Repairs
[] Bus Driver (CDL)
[] Maintain Flower
Habitat for Humanity
Beds
[] Help Provide
[] Errands
Lunches
[] Signs
[] Help Build a House
PRE-SCHOOL (Stephanie needs to review)
[] Read to Children (15-20 min)
[] Music
[] Office Assistant
[] Substitute:
[] Help with Craft Work
Full Day___
[] Cooking (3 hrs. Prep/Serving/Clean-up)
1/2 Day: AM___ PM___
[] Make Minor Repairs
1-2 Hrs: AM___ PM___
[] Help with Upkeep of Play Area
[] Classroom Assistant
[] Help with Special Projects
By the Hour___
[] Assist with Fajita Dinner Benefit
1/2 Day___
[] Playground Assistant
Full Day___
[] Assist with Field Trips
I will stand for election/appointment to:
[] Church Council
[] Finance committee
[] Preschool Board
[] Synodical Committee
(2nd page)
NAME: _______________________________________
DESPERATE FOR PEACE
DATE: __________________
CHURCH OFFICE & TECHNICAL
[] Receptionist Substitute
OUTREACH
[] Call on Sunday Visitors
During worship, our congregation “passes the peace.” More than a friendly
greeting, this ritual is a symbol of Christ’s peace shared with us, for us to share
daily with others. It also echoes Jesus’ exhortation that we be reconciled with
others before offering our gifts in worship. One Sunday morning, I sat behind a
9-year-old girl & her toddler brother. The boy was active & talkative, keeping
his parents busy. As the pastor invited us to “share Christ’s peace with one
another,” big sister popped up from her seat & offered to shake hands with
everyone nearby, proclaiming “Peace!” to each. As she tried this with her mom
& brother, however, they were occupied with each other & wholly unaware of
her efforts. Finally, I overheard her not inviting but demanding, “Mom! James! I
want PEACE!” I had to smile, for the girl had voiced the desperation with which
we
all
crave
peace
in
the
world
&
in
our
lives.
—Heidi Mann
In the happy moments PRAISE GOD.
In the difficult moments SEEK GOD.
In the quiet moments TRUST GOD.
In every moment THANK GOD.
“Laugh as much as you breathe & love
as long as you live. Trust your journey”
They laughed a little louder; they cried a
little softer; they lived a little stronger;
because they stood together…FRIENDS.
SOMEDAY is made of a thousand tiny
NOWS.
The best things in life are the people we
love…the places we’ve been…and the
memories we’ve made along the way.
There is always always always
something to be thankful for so
remember to thank God every day.
When your head starts to worry & your
mind just can’t rest, put your thoughts
down on paper & let God do the rest.
The light of God surrounds you.
The love of God enfolds you.
The presence of God watches over you.
The power of God protects you.
Wherever you are, God is!
If nothing ever changed, there’d be no
butterflies.
Recipe For An Amazing Person
Start with faith & honesty.
Mix in pure humility.
Add strength of character that rises
above the stress of life’s surprises.
Fold in personality.
Toss with generosity.
Pour in love from a heart that’s true.
Yield: One terrific person
Lack of planning on your part does not
constitute an emergency on my part.
Good morning…this is God.
Today I’ll be handling all your problems.
…so sit back, relax & leave everything to
me.
Don’t cry because it’s over.
Smile because it happened.
FINGERPRINTS
Though I miss you every day & I know I
always will; you left me with a legacy of
love that lingers still. I’ll cling to precious
memories in this time that we’re apart, &
take comfort in your prints forever etched
upon my heart.
1. Who was the first president of our congregation?
2. Who was the first pastor of our congregation?
3. Where did our high school youth go, as a group, in July of 2014?
a. Luckenbach
b. Downtown Mason, TX
c. The swimming pool at Morris Ranch
d. Chicago
4. About how old is the baptismal font in our sanctuary?
a. It was purchased new from Concordia Church Supply in 2009.
b. It was donated to Bethany by St. Martins of Austin as a gift when
we moved to our current building in 1954.
c. It was purchased in the early 1900s & brought to the current
sanctuary when we moved in 1954.
d. We don’t know the exact age, but we know Martin Luther’s
mother-in-law owned it & Christopher Columbus was baptized in
it prior to 1492.
[Answers pg. 17]
ANSWERS TO BETHANY TRIVIA [pg. 21]
1. b
2. Via “the sum of $75 in gold
3. d
GOD
Stills You & Reassures You
Leads You & Enlightens You
Forgives You & Calms You
Encourages You & Comforts You
SATAN
Rushes You & Frightens You
Pushes You & Confuses You
Condemns You &Stresses You
Discourages You & Worries You
Fair Trade Coffee for Sale
rd
3 Sunday Every Month thru December
The Hope Circle & Bethany is supporting Lutheran World
Relief (LWR) by offering an assortment of fair trade coffee
for sale after services every 3rd Sunday each month
through December.
Watch your thoughts, they become words.
Watch your words they become actions.
Watch your actions they become habits.
Watch your habits they become character.
Watch your character it becomes your destiny.
BETHANY TRIVIA
4. b
The Holy Alphabet
Although things are not perfect
Because of trial or pain
Continue in thanksgiving
Do not begin to blame
Even when the times are hard
Fierce winds are bound to blow
God is forever able
Hold on to what you know
Imagine life without His love
Joy would cease to be
Keep thanking Him for all the things
Love imparts to thee
Move out of “Camp Complaining”
No weapon that is known
On earth can yield the power
Praise can do alone
Quit looking at the future
Redeem the time at hand
Start every day with worship
To “thank” is a command
Until we see Him coming
Victorious in the sky
We’ll run the race with gratitude
Xalting God most high
Yes, there’ll be good times and yes some will be bad, but…
Zion waits in glory…where none are ever sad!
Submitted by Joann Leifeste
The Greatest News – Death carries with it a certain dread. It has always
been the enemy, the great, mysterious monster that makes people quake
with fear. Death stalks the rich & the poor, the educated & the uneducated.
Death does not respect race, color or creed. Its shadow haunts us day &
night. We never know when the moment of death will come. Is there any
hope? The greatest news that mortal ear has ever heard is the news that
Jesus Christ has risen from the dead, as He had promised. Because Christ
lives, we also shall live. The greatest truth that you will ever hear is that
Jesus Christ died but rose again & that you too will die but will rise again into
newness of life. Billy Graham
Singing daily for at least ten
minutes reduces stress, clears
sinuses, improves posture & can
even help you live longer.
2016 MEETING SCHEDULE
st
1 Sun
1st Tue
1st Wed
2nd Tue
2nd Wed
12:00
P&W Com
2nd Sun
12:00
CYFM
Com
6:00
Finance
Com
3rd Sun
3rd Tue
Meal
6:00
Preschool
Bd
4th Sun
11:45
Social
Concerns
Com
4th Tue
3rd Wed
1st Thu
5:30
Evangelism
6:00
Fellowship
2nd Thu
12:00
Executive
5:30
Stewardship
3rd Thu
3:00
Traditional
Worship Com
4th Wed
6:00 Council
4th Thu
?? Property??
Jean Weber
Brittany durst
Shelba Fenimore
Marc Williamson
Tammy Keener
Monica Jinright
DeAnne Peterson
Erik Iverson
Wilfried Mazanke
Pastors/Staff on 2016 Committees
Worship-Traditional Pastors Casey & Travis
Worship-Contemporary Pastors Casey & Travis, Matt White
Evangelism Pastor Travis
Fellowship Pastors Casey & Travis as needed
Finance Layne Petty (Pastor Casey as needed)
CYFM Kiesha Priem
Property Layne Petty
Social Concerns Pastor Travis
Stewardship Pastor Casey
Preschool Pastor Casey
Special Boards, Committees, Teams, Task Forces:
Executive Cmte: Pastors Casey & Travis
Congregation Initiated Community Based Advocacy: Pastor Travis
Bethany Foundation: Pastor Casey
Long Range Planning: Pastors Casey 7 Travis
Nominating (Fall): TBA
BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH
Ministers: All Members of Bethany
*Rev. Casey Zesch *Rev. Travis Meier
Pastor of Visitation: Pastor Elliott Pancoast
Director of Youth & Children’s Ministries: Kiesha Priem
Office Administrator: Layne Perry
Financial Clerk: Berta Allen
Worship Coordinator: Marjorie Ottmers
Staff Assistant & Bells Editor: Suzanne Mitchell
Caretakers: John Stafford, Jim Green
Dieter Kemper, Tom Swearingen
Preschool Director: Stephanie Sanchez
Council President: Randy Busch
Staff Assistant & Bells Editor: Suzanne Mitchell
Caretakers: John Stafford, Jim Green
Dieter Kemper, Tom Swearingen
Preschool Director: Stephanie Sanchez
Council President: Randy Busch
RECEIPTS A MUST: When you’re a servant volunteer at
Bethany, we want to provide the tools & supplies you
need, as approved by your overseeing committee or
staff. We must have a receipt for any purchase you
make using the Bethany business charge cards or when
you need personal reimbursement. Thank you for your
help & understanding!
PRIVATE EVENTS: Please do not block EXIT doors at
any time during your private event in the fellowship hall.
FOOD PANTRY: If each family in our congregation
contributed just one can of food what a difference we
could make!
FBG CANCER RESOURCE CENTER is located in the
Brune Professional Building, a half block north of the Wellness Center & is
available M-F. Call 990-6648 for more information.
RADIO SERVICE: Bethany’s service is broadcast the 2nd Sunday of each month at
10:30 a.m. on KNAF-AM 910.
COMMUNION IN CHAIRS/PEWS: For those with walking difficulties in worship
services, the pastors & communion assistants are glad to bring the Lord’s Supper
to them. Please do 3 things to help: Sit near an aisle, tell an usher or worship host
when you enter & raise a hand as communion distributors walk by.
SERVING FOOD AFTER FUNERALS: When funerals are held for Bethany
members, we offer to serve sandwiches, cake & tea for the family & close friends.
Usually that’s around 20 – 50 folks. We’ll serve up to 100 (after 100, the family will
need to see about additional food).
CHURCH OFFICE HOURS: Normal hours are Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Staff meetings usually held Tuesday morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. [The second
week of the month staff meeting is held on Wed due to the Deanery meeting.]
TURN OUT THE LIGHTS AFTER MEETINGS, PLEASE!
FLOWER CHART: Sign-up charts in the narthex for traditional services & in the
fellowship hall lobby for praise & worship.
TAKING OUT THE TRASH: Whenever anyone serves food in the Fellowship
Hall, please take the trash to the dumpster. HOSPITAL: If you are hospitalized,
please call or have someone call the church office to let the pastors know for
visitation. You need to specifically put ‘Bethany’ on your hospital registration form
at check-in.
LOCK IT TWICE: Please remember when you leave the church at night to lock
each glass door twice. (1) crash-bar (2) outside knob.
FLOWER CHARTS
Those who wish to honor or memorialize loved ones, or celebrate
birthdays, anniversaries & special joys are encouraged to sign up for
flowers in the narthex for traditional and call church office to place
flowers for Praise and Worship Service.
Help Our Seniors
Bethany has many senior citizens who have
difficulty walking as well as some younger folks
with disabilities.
HOW? If you can walk well, please reserve
parking spaces close to the building for those who have a
difficult time with long distances. It’s a way to show love. It’s a
small—but beautiful—example of the sacrificial life that Christ
taught us.
Paula Hein Estate
From “Last Will and Testament”…
“I give, devise and bequeath all of the rest of and residue of my estate
of every description: real, personal or mixed, wheresoever situated,
which I may own or be disposed of or have an interest in at the time of
my death (my “residuary estate”) as follows:
“1. Ten percent (10%) to BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH, INC. of
Fredericksburg, Texas, to be used for general fund expenses and
Hennig house mortgage debt reduction, maintenance, repairs,
renovations and additions.”
Cause No. 9870
ESTATE OF
€ IN THE COUNTY COURT
PAULA ITZ HEIN
€ OF
DECEASED
€ GILLESPIE COUNTY, TEXAS
RECEIPT OF PARTIAL DISTRIBUTION
The undersigned hereby acknowledges receipt of the following as a
partial distribution from the Estate of PAUL AITZ HEIN:
Check for $90,000.00 payable to BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH,
INC., of Fredericksburg, Texas.
DATED this 15th day of September, 2015.
BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH, INC>
Fredericksburg, Texas
BY: Casey Zesch, Senior Pastor
The great news is that, through the Spirit-led generosity of
many Bethany folks, we have paid off the Hennig Loan in
record time! The cost of the Hennig House was $600,000.
Early leadership gifts paid the initial $60,000 and then
Bethany took at 15-year loan for $540,000 plus interest. Mark
that paid! In 3 years. Thank you!!
A significant goal for October, November, and December is
the funding of the “people” mission and ministry that happens
daily. Literally. Homebound, children, youth, men, women,
families, singles. Your church council believes in these
ministries and doesn’t want to put any at risk. Bethany is
blessed with folks who know the goodness of God and give
both cheerfully and sacrificially. We ask that in these last 3
months of 2015, you consider special gifts to the General
Fund as a priority. Thanks!
Parking Lot & AC
In the happy moments PRAISE GOD.
In the difficult moments SEEK GOD.
In the quiet moments TRUST GOD.
In every moment THANK GOD.
“Hennig House Improvements”
The loan for the Hennig House is PAID OFF! We have now transitioned to
the “Hennig House Improvements” fund for those who want to help with
improvements to the house. Bethany has been notified by the Historic
Review Board that we must soon repair the porch & we certainly agree.
For issues of safety as well as aesthetics in the historical district, the
porch is our first priority. The council has had our architect Randy Stehling
look at the porch & he will give recommendations for restoration work.
We will be working with both local historical district & state historical
marker guidelines.
A little $ word about a
3-month Bethany goal
So, maybe you noticed that line on page 2 about our General
Fund deficit. In case you missed it, at the end of August (last
available information at press time) we are in the red $27,900.
Our parking lot is in need of repair; the council approved a bid
from Sealcoat Specialists. Notice of dates will be given in the
Sunday bulletins. And good news: the 1954 air conditioner for
the sanctuary has been repaired. Cool!
Malaria Campaign: Goal!
Remember the paper & pipe-cleaner mosquitos hanging in the
hallways 5 years ago? They reminded us of the real
mosquitos that carry deadly diseases in Africa. Bethany & the
SWT Synod congregations raised funds toward the ELCA’s 5year goal of $15 million to save people’s lives from malaria.
This month the ELCA announced that together we have
reached that goal! Thank you for gifts that save lives.
Children, Youth & Family Ministries
The faith formation hour we call ‘Sunday School’ is back! We have
classes for children age 2 through 5th grade, for youth in 6th – 12th
grades plus 4 adult classes!
Room
Class
108 & 110 Pre-K ages 2-5
Rotation
Kindergarten – 5th
102 & 104 Middle School Youth
113
High School Youth
FLOWER CHARTS
Those who wish to honor or memorialize loved ones, or celebrate
birthdays, anniversaries & special joys are encouraged to sign up for
flowers in the narthex for traditional and call church office to place
flowers for Praise and Worship Service.
RECEIPTS A MUST: When you’re a servant volunteer at
Bethany, we want to provide the tools & supplies you
need, as approved by your overseeing committee or
staff. We must have a receipt for any purchase you
make using the Bethany business charge cards or when
you need personal reimbursement. Thank you for your
help & understanding!
PRIVATE EVENTS: Please do not block EXIT doors at
any time during your private event in the fellowship hall.
FOOD PANTRY: If each family in our congregation
contributed just one can of food what a difference we
could make!
FBG CANCER RESOURCE CENTER is located in the
Brune Professional Building, a half block north of the Wellness Center & is
available M-F. Call 990-6648 for more information.
RADIO SERVICE: Bethany’s service is broadcast the 2nd Sunday of each month at
10:30 a.m. on KNAF-AM 910.
COMMUNION IN CHAIRS/PEWS: For those with walking difficulties in worship
services, the pastors & communion assistants are glad to bring the Lord’s Supper
to them. Please do 3 things to help: Sit near an aisle, tell an usher or worship host
when you enter & raise a hand as communion distributors walk by.
SERVING FOOD AFTER FUNERALS: When funerals are held for Bethany
members, we offer to serve sandwiches, cake & tea for the family & close friends.
Usually that’s around 20 – 50 folks. We’ll serve up to 100 (after 100, the family will
need to see about additional food).
CHURCH OFFICE HOURS: Normal hours are Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Staff meetings usually held Tuesday morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. [The second
week of the month staff meeting is held on Wed due to the Deanery meeting.]
TURN OUT THE LIGHTS AFTER MEETINGS, PLEASE!
FLOWER CHART: Sign-up charts in the narthex for traditional services & in the
fellowship hall lobby for praise & worship.
TAKING OUT THE TRASH: Whenever anyone serves food in the Fellowship
Hall, please take the trash to the dumpster. HOSPITAL: If you are hospitalized,
please call or have someone call the church office to let the pastors know for
visitation. You need to specifically put ‘Bethany’ on your hospital registration form
at check-in.
LOCK IT TWICE: Please remember when you leave the church at night to lock
each glass door twice. (1) crash-bar (2) outside knob.
“Hennig House Improvements”
The loan for the Hennig House is PAID OFF! We have now transitioned to
the “Hennig House Improvements” fund for those who want to help with
improvements to the house. Bethany has been notified by the Historic
Review Board that we must soon repair the porch & we certainly agree.
For issues of safety as well as aesthetics in the historical district, the
porch is our first priority. The council has had our architect Randy Stehling
look at the porch & he will give recommendations for restoration work.
We will be working with both local historical district & state historical
marker guidelines.
FAITH FOUNDATIONS
Faith Foundations is our after school program (previously Sacred
Arts) for 1st-5th graders. By the time kids get into the Confirmation
program, we recognize that while some kids do know the Bible
stories, many do not. So we have to teach these stories in
Confirmation instead of being able to expand upon them. Faith
Foundations will still resemble Sacred Arts, but we will be spending
even more time on the foundational stories of the Bible on the kids’
levels, while still playing games, having snacks, and spending time
together. Faith Foundations will take place every Tuesday after
school until 5:00pm.
JUMPSTART
Jumpstart is an after school program for students in 6th grade and
takes place every Wednesday from 4:00-5:00pm. Jumpstart is just
what it sounds like…a jumpstart to Confirmation. Students gather for
snacks and games and then head to Bethany Pre-School where they
read stories to the BPS kids. After that they have a short lesson
followed by a craft, project or game. Jumpstart is designed to serve
as an introduction to the Confirmation classes that they will
participate in over the next 2 years.
CONFIRMATION
This year we are going to take a different approach to our
Confirmation instruction. The kids will be divided into 3 small groups
and do a series of rotations. One rotation will be spent on the lesson
with pastors and/or Kiesha. Another rotation will focus on ‘Setting the
Table’, where the kids will work with adult mentors to prepare a meal
for the entire group. The third rotation will focus on a different Faith
Practice each month, which will go along with the lesson for the
month. The final week, we will come together as a large group to
learn about the community of Fredericksburg. Confirmation
sessions take place every Wednesday night from 5:00-7:00.
HIGH SCHOOL
Our High School Youth meet on Sundays from 5:00-7:00pm. They
gather and share a meal together, play games, hang out, and talk
about the Bible and how it relates to their faith and their lives. It is a
time to recoup from the week in a safe space. We also do other
activities interspersed throughout the year, like going to Enchanted
Rock, having movie nights & have Bible studies in different settings.
Jesus
…had no servants, yet they called Him Master.
…had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
…had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
…had no army, yet kings feared Him.
…won no military battles but He conquered the world.
…committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.
…was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.
…feel honored to serve such a Leader who loves us.
BETHANY OFFERS A GREAT DEAL
FOR YOUR CHILDREN
Faith Foundations (1st-5th grades): Tuesdays
Jumpstart (6th grade): Wednesdays
Confirmation (7th-8th grades): Wednesdays
High School: Sundays
We’ll be friends until we’re old & senile then we’ll be new friends!
If I listen closely, I will hear the song of angels & I will know you are still with me.
Disciple Crosswalks (all ages): Sundays
FAMILY like branches on a tree, we grow in different directions yet
our roots remain as one.
ADULT BIBLE CLASS with Pastor Casey meets in sanctuary overflow
area. New theme: ___________________________________
BIBLE CLASS: ‘Paul’s Letter to the Romans’ with Pastor Travis. Meets in
room #207.
LEGACY BUILDERS with the Williamsons & Keeners in room #115. Please
join us for spiritual growth, great fellowship, and a warm, delicious breakfast
on Sunday morning! Geared toward young adults. This month will be in
study & discussion with the series “Forgiveness” by Adam Hamilton.
TRANSITIONS with Linda Davis & Pastor Lucinda Zesch. Meet in room
#106. The Great Emergence – how does it compare to the Great
Reformation and what does it mean for us now? Best-selling author and
authority on religion in America, Phyllis Tickle invites us to join her in
examining the changing face of Christianity and culture. Phyllis surveys
2000 years of Western history, identifying the great upheavals that occur in
Western culture and Christianity every 500 years. The last was the Great
Reformation of the 1500s; the next is happening now. What are the
implications of this “Great Emergence,” both culturally and spiritually? What
are the key questions and issues that need to be addressed? Where might
we be headed next? And, perhaps most importantly, where are you, at his
moment? Might you be an emergence Christian? The class is primarily
aimed at the Baby Boomer Generation but all are welcome. The class is
appropriate for new Christians as well as those wanting to grow their faith.
Nothing lasts forever…not even your troubles. Arnold Glasgow
YOUR FEBRUARY
FUNNY!
Ever notice the older we get the
more we’re like computers? We start
out with lots of memory & drive then
we become outdated & eventually
have to get our parts replaced.
FOREVER FRIEND
Someone who changes your life just by being part of it.
Someone who makes you laugh until you can’t stop.
Someone who makes you believe that there is good in the
world.
Someone who convinces you that there really is an
unlocked door just waiting for you to open it.
This is Forever Friendship.
FLOWER CHART: Sign-up charts in the narthex for traditional services & in the fellowship
hall lobby for praise & worship.
TAKING OUT THE TRASH: Whenever anyone serves food in the Fellowship Hall, please
take the trash to the dumpster. HOSPITAL: If you are hospitalized, please call or have
someone call the church office to let the pastors know for visitation. You need to specifically
put ‘Bethany’ on your hospital registration form at check-in.
LOCK IT TWICE: Please remember when you leave the church at night to lock each glass
door twice. (1) crash-bar (2) outside knob.
REMEMBER…you don’t stop laughing
because you grow old; you grow old because you
stop laughing!
WOMEN’S
BIBLE STUDY
“Anointed, Transformed,
Redeemed: A Study of
David”
Wednesdays @ 6:30
RECEIPTS A MUST: When you’re a servant volunteer at
Bethany, we want to provide the tools & supplies you need, as
approved by your overseeing committee or staff. We must have
a receipt for any purchase you make using the Bethany
business charge cards or when you need personal
reimbursement. Thank you for your help & understanding!
PRIVATE EVENTS: Please do not block EXIT doors at any time
during your private event in the fellowship hall.
FOOD PANTRY: If each family in our congregation contributed
just one can of food what a difference we could make!
FBG CANCER RESOURCE CENTER is located in the Brune Professional Building, a half
block north of the Wellness Center & is available M-F. Call 990-6648 for more information.
RADIO SERVICE: Bethany’s service is broadcast the 2nd Sunday of each month at 10:30
a.m. on KNAF-AM 910.
COMMUNION IN CHAIRS/PEWS: For those with walking difficulties in worship services, the
pastors & communion assistants are glad to bring the Lord’s Supper to them. Please do 3
things to help: Sit near an aisle, tell an usher or worship host when you enter & raise a hand
as communion distributors walk by.
SERVING FOOD AFTER FUNERALS: When funerals are held for Bethany members, we
offer to serve sandwiches, cake & tea for the family & close friends. Usually that’s around 20
– 50 folks. We’ll serve up to 100 (after 100, the family will need to see about additional food).
CHURCH OFFICE HOURS: Normal hours are Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Staff
meetings usually held Tuesday morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. [The second week of the
month staff meeting is held on Wed due to the Deanery meeting.]
TURN OUT THE LIGHTS AFTER MEETINGS, PLEASE!
Help Our Seniors
Bethany has many senior citizens who have difficulty walking
as well as some younger folks with disabilities.
HOW?
If you can walk well, please reserve parking
spaces close to the building for those who have a
difficult time with long distances. It’s a way to
show love. It’s a small—but beautiful—
example of the sacrificial life that Christ
taught us.
YOUR FEBRUARY FUNNY!
Ever notice the older we get the more we’re like
computers? We start out with lots of memory & drive then
we become outdated & eventually have to get our parts
replaced.
You cannot lift the wage earner up by pulling the
wage payer down.
You cannot further the brotherhood of man by
inciting class hatred.
Life before the computer…
You cannot build character and courage by taking
away people's initiative and independence.
You cannot help people permanently by doing for
them, what they could and should do for
themselves."
Abraham Lincoln
Memory was something you lost with age.
An application was for employment.
A program was a TV show.
A cursor used profanity.
A keyboard was a piano.
A web was a spider’s home.
A virus was the flu.
A CD was a bank account.
A hard drive was a long road trip.
A mouse pad was where a mouse lived.
The Woman Whispered…
"God, speak to me" and
a meadowlark sang. But, she did not hear.
So she yelled "God, speak to me". And the thunder rolled
across the sky. But, she did not listen. The woman looked
around and said, God let me see you." And a star shined
brightly. But she did not notice. And the woman shouted, "God
show me a miracle" And a life was born. But she did
not know. So the woman cried out in despair,
"Touch me God, and let me know you are here."
Where upon, God reached down and touched
her. But she brushed the butterfly away and
walked on. Don't miss out on a blessing because it
isn't packaged the way that you expect.
"You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the
strong.
You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging
thrift.
2015 COUNCIL Members
OFFICERS
President: Bob Linka Vice-Pres: Gary McCready
Secy: Pat Maenius
Randy Bush
Brittany Geistweidt Paul Hartmann
Erik Iverson
Keith Whited
Jean Weber
Monica Jinright
Karen Loeffler
Tammy Keener
COMMITTEE REPS
Property & Mgmt:
Traditional Worship:
Praise & Worship:
CYFM:
Preschool Board:
Social Concerns:
Fellowship:
Finance:
Evangelism:
Stewardship:
Long Range Planning:
Gary McCready & Pr. Pancoast
Randy Busch, Pr. Casey & Pr. Travis
Erik Iverson, Pr. Casey, Pr. Travis
Monica Jinright & Kiesha Priem
Brittany Geistweidt & Pr. Casey
Keith Whited & Pr. Travis
Karen Loeffler & Pr. Casey
Paul Hartmann & Pr. Pancoast, Pr. Casey & Berta
Tammy Keener & Pr. Travis
Jean Weber & Pr. Travis
Bob Linka, Pr. Casey & Pr. Travis
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father and of
the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28: 19, NIV
Ten days after Jesus ascended into heaven, the Holy Spirit
descended onto Jesus’ disciples. While they were gathering in
Jerusalem to celebrate the Jewish festival of Pentecost, the
disciples saw flames among & on them, heard a rushing wind &
began talking in many languages As a result, the disciples were
able to share the good news of Jesus in the native tongues of all
the pilgrims assembled in the city. Even today, the power of the
Holy Spirit fuels the “flame” that ignites Christians’ outreach efforts.
Only by the Spirit’s power can we know Christ & make him known
throughout the world.
They laughed a little louder; they cried a little softer; they lived a
little stronger because they stood together as FRIENDS!
Food Pantry Summer
Needs
During the summer months, our local Food
Pantry receives less food from the Capital
Area Food Bank, so the need for local
contributions increases. You can take food directly to
the Food Pantry, just off Highway Street at 701 Mustang St, or bring it
to church and place it in the “Food Pantry Box.” Any donation is
appreciated. Often the most needed items are canned meats and
peanut butter.
 God's accuracy may be observed in the hatching of eggs...
For example:
-the eggs of the potato bug hatch in 7 days
-those of the canary in 14 days
-those of the barnyard hen in 21 days
-the eggs of ducks and geese hatch in 28 days
-those of the mallard in 35 days
-The eggs of the parrot and the ostrich hatch in 42 days.
(Notice, they are all divisible by seven, the number of days in a
week!) God's wisdom is seen in the making of an elephant: The
four legs of this great beast all bend forward in the same
direction. No other quadruped is so made. God planned that
this animal would have a huge body--too large to live on two
legs. For this reason, He gave it four fulcrums so that it can rise
from the ground easily. The horse rises from the ground on its
two front legs first. A cow rises from the ground with its two hind
legs first. How wise the Lord is in all His works of creation!
God's wisdom and perfect order is revealed in His arrangement
of sections and segments, as well as in the number of grains.
-Each watermelon has an even number of stripes on the rind.
-Each orange has an even number of segments.
-Each ear of corn has an even number of rows.
-Each stalk of wheat has an even number of grains.
-Every bunch of bananas has on its lowest row an even number
of bananas, and each row decreases by one, so that one row
has an even number and the next row an odd number.
The waves of the sea roll in on shore twenty-six to the minute in
all kinds of weather. All grains are found in even numbers on
the stalks, and the Lord specified thirty fold, sixty fold, and a
hundred fold all even numbers. God has caused the flowers to
blossom at certain specified times during the day. Linnaeus, the
great botanist, once said that if he had a conservatory
containing the right kind of soil, moisture, and temperature, he
could tell the time of day or night by the flowers that were open
and those that were closed! The lives of each of you may be
ordered by the Lord in a beautiful way for His glory, if you will
only entrust Him with your life. If you try to regulate your own
life, it will only be a mess and a failure. Only the One Who
made the brain and the heart can successfully guide them to a
profitable end.
I NO LONGER…have the patience for certain things not because I’ve become arrogant but
simply because I have reached a point in my life where I do not want to waste more time with
what displeases me or hurts me. I have no patience for cynicism, excessive criticism &
demands of any nature. I lost the will to please those who do not like me, to love those who do
not love me & to smile at those who do not want to smile at me. I no longer spend a single
minute on those who lie or want to manipulate. I decided not to coexist anymore with pretense,
hypocrisy, dishonestly & cheap praise. I do not tolerate selective erudition nor academic
arrogance. I do not adjust either to popular gossiping. I hate conflict & comparisons. I believe in
a world of opposites & that’s why I avoid people with rigid & inflexible personalities. In
friendship I dislike the lack of loyalty & betrayal. I do not get along with those who do not know
how to give a compliment or a word of encouragement. Exaggerations bore me & I have
difficulty accepting those who do not like animals. And on top of everything I have no patience
for anyone who does not deserve my patience.” Meryl Streep
BETHANY OFFERS A GREAT DEAL FOR YOUR CHILDREN
Sacred arts (1st-5th grades): Tuesdays
Jumpstart (6th grade): Wednesdays
Confirmation (7th-8th grades): Wednesdays
Cross Trainers (high school): Wednesdays
Disciple Crosswalks (all ages): Sundays
RECEIPTS A MUST: When you’re a servant volunteer at
Bethany, we want to provide the tools & supplies you need, as
approved by your overseeing committee or staff. We must have
a receipt for any purchase you make using the Bethany
business charge cards or when you need personal
reimbursement. Thank you for your help & understanding!
PRIVATE EVENTS: Please do not block EXIT doors at
any time during your private event in the fellowship hall.
FOOD PANTRY: If each family in our congregation
contributed just one can of food what a difference we
could make!
FBG CANCER RESOURCE CENTER is located in the
Brune Professional Building, a half block north of the
Wellness Center & is available M-F. Call 990-6648 for more information.
RADIO SERVICE: Bethany’s service is broadcast the 2nd Sunday of each month at
10:30 a.m. on KNAF-AM 910.
COMMUNION IN CHAIRS/PEWS: For those with walking difficulties in worship
services, the pastors & communion assistants are glad to bring the Lord’s Supper
to them. Please do 3 things to help: Sit near an aisle, tell an usher or worship host
when you enter & raise a hand as communion distributors walk by.
SERVING FOOD AFTER FUNERALS: When funerals are held for Bethany
members, we offer to serve sandwiches, cake & tea for the family & close friends.
Usually that’s around 20 – 50 folks. We’ll serve up to 100 (after 100, the family will
need to see about additional food).
CHURCH OFFICE HOURS: Normal hours are Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Staff meetings usually held Tuesday morning beginning at 9:00 a.m. [The second
week of the month staff meeting is held on Wed due to the Deanery meeting.]
TURN OUT THE LIGHTS AFTER MEETINGS, PLEASE!
FLOWER CHART: Sign-up charts in the narthex for traditional services & in the
fellowship hall lobby for praise & worship.
TAKING OUT THE TRASH: Whenever anyone serves food in the Fellowship
Hall, please take the trash to the dumpster. HOSPITAL: If you are hospitalized,
please call or have someone call the church office to let the pastors know for
visitation. You need to specifically put ‘Bethany’ on your hospital registration form
at check-in.
LOCK IT TWICE: Please remember when you leave the church at night to lock
each glass door twice. (1) crash-bar (2) outside knob.
HELP OUR SENIORS: Bethany has many senior citizens who have
difficulty walking as well as some younger folks with disabilities. HOW
CAN YOU HELP? If you can walk well, please save the close-in parking
places for those who have a difficult time. It’s a way to show love. It’s a
small—but beautiful—example of the sacrificial life that Christ taught us.
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM HEAVEN
I still hear the songs. I still see the lights.
I still feel your love on cold wintery nights.
I still share your hopes & all of your cares.
I’ll even remind you to please say your prayers.
I just want to tell you, you still make me proud.
You stand head & shoulders above all the crowd.
Keep trying each moment to stay in His grace.
I came here before you to help set your place.
You don’t have to be perfect all of the time.
He forgives you the slip if you continue the climb.
To my family & friends please be thankful today.
I’m still close beside you in a new special way.
I love you all dearly now don’t shed a tear.
I’m spending my Christmas with Jesus this year.
©1989 John Wm. Mooney Jr.
Everything not saved will be lost!
Prayer: The world’s greatest
wireless connection.
DAD
A son’s first hero & a daughter’s first love.
Bethany Lutheran Church
THE CHURCH NEEDS YOUR HELP!
Please Complete & Return to Church Office! THANK YOU!
Name: ______________________ DATE: ______________
Phone: _________________________
Time and Talent Volunteer Form
Please indicate your areas of interest by checking or darkening the appropriate boxes
Bethany ePrayers
Email Prayer Chain Update
A number of Bethany members are part of our email prayer chain.
Whenever someone requests prayer, an email is sent and those
receiving it join in prayer for the people listed. Would you like to be
part of this ePrayer group? If so, simply email Pastor Casey at
[email protected].
Teacher
[] Sunday School
[] Shepherd (Helper)
[] Adult Classes
[] Bible School
(Summer)
[] Bible Study
[] Substitute Teacher
[] Confirmation
Mentor
LEARNING TO KNOW GOD
Planner:
[] Adult Classes
[] Bible Studies
[] After School Programs
[] Special Seminars
[] Picnic Sunday
[] Christmas Program
[] Rally Day
Traditional Service
[] Usher Captain
8:00 AM___ 10:30 AM___
[] Usher
8:00 AM___ 10:30 AM___
[] Greeter
8:00 AM___ 10:30 AM___
[] Lector/Reader
8:00 AM___ 10:30 AM___
[] Communion Assistant
8:00 AM___ 10:30 AM___
[] Altar Guild: Month _______
[] Organist and/or Pianist
[] Cantor and/or Soloist
[] Instrument: _________
Helpers:
[] Sunday School
[] Bible School
(Summer)
[] After School
[] Children’s
Choir/Opening
[] Refreshments
[] Special Programs
[] Breakfast Bar
WORSHIP
Contemporary Service
[] Worship Host (Usher/Greeter)
[] Worship Leader (Leads prayers,
lessons, announcements)
[] Children’s Sermon Presenter
[] Guitar
[] Keyboard
[] Drums
[] Instrument: _____
[] Praise Team Voices
[] Set-up/Teardown Crew
CHOIR
[] Women’s Choir
[] Chancel Choir
YOUTH & CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES
GROUPS & PRAYER MINISTRIES
[] Adult Sponsor [] Bus Driver
[] High School [] Junior High
[] 6th Grade
[] 1st – 5th Grade
[] Provide snacks/drinks
[] Call & email reminders
[] Help with service projects
LEADERSHIP
Church Committees
[] Youth
[] Parish Education
[] Worship
[] Evangelism
[] Women’s Circles [] Men‘s group
[] Quilting
[] Disaster Response
[] Camp Chrysalis Work Projects
[] Prayer Chain: phone/email
[] Ramp Team
Church Committees
[] Stewardship
[] Social Concerns
[] Property & Management
[] Fellowship
TIME & TALENT FORM
(2nd page)
NAME: _______________________________________
DESPERATE FOR PEACE
DATE: __________________
CHURCH OFFICE & TECHNICAL
OUTREACH
[] Receptionist Substitute
[] Call on Sunday Visitors
[] Typing/Word Processing
[] Special Activities Organizer/Asst
[] Stuff Envelopes
[] Develop advertising materials/ stories
[] Newsletter ‘Troops’- Assembly Only
[] Greet/Meet New People
[] Art (Drawing, Painting)
[] Visiting/Talk with People re Bethany
[] Computer Work
[] Prepare/Serve refreshments-events
[] Sound System
[] New Members Sponsor
[] Power Point
SERVICE & CARE
Social Ministries
Would You Like to:
Church
“House & Yard Work”
[] Rides to Church
[] Be a foster parent
[] Rides to Doctor
[] Host a foreign exchange
[] Painting
[] Food for recently
student
[] Varnish/Rework
Lend a Hand
released hospital
Woodwork
patients
[] Coffee pot clean-up after
[] Cleaning/Special
[] Food for Funerals
late service
Projects
[] Funeral Food
[] Potluck clean-up
[] Custodian
Server
[] Prepare food for various
Substitute
[] Sit with Homebound
functions
[] Construction
[] Assist with Nursing
[] Set up tables & chairs for
Projects:
Home Communion
special functions
Interior___
[] Minor Home
[] Plan Senior Outings
Exterior___
Repairs
[] Bus Driver (CDL)
[] Maintain Flower
Habitat for Humanity
Beds
[] Help Provide
[] Errands
Lunches
[] Signs
[] Help Build a House
PRE-SCHOOL (Stephanie needs to review)
[] Read to Children (15-20 min)
[] Music
[] Office Assistant
[] Substitute:
[] Help with Craft Work
Full Day___
[] Cooking (3 hrs. Prep/Serving/Clean-up)
1/2 Day: AM___ PM___
[] Make Minor Repairs
1-2 Hrs: AM___ PM___
[] Help with Upkeep of Play Area
[] Classroom Assistant
[] Help with Special Projects
By the Hour___
[] Assist with Fajita Dinner Benefit
1/2 Day___
[] Playground Assistant
Full Day___
[] Assist with Field Trips
I will stand for election/appointment to:
[] Church Council
[] Finance committee
[] Preschool Board
[] Synodical Committee
During worship, our congregation “passes the peace.” More than a friendly
greeting, this ritual is a symbol of Christ’s peace shared with us, for us to share
daily with others. It also echoes Jesus’ exhortation that we be reconciled with
others before offering our gifts in worship. One Sunday morning, I sat behind a
9-year-old girl & her toddler brother. The boy was active & talkative, keeping
his parents busy. As the pastor invited us to “share Christ’s peace with one
another,” big sister popped up from her seat & offered to shake hands with
everyone nearby, proclaiming “Peace!” to each. As she tried this with her mom
& brother, however, they were occupied with each other & wholly unaware of
her efforts. Finally, I overheard her not inviting but demanding, “Mom! James! I
want PEACE!” I had to smile, for the girl had voiced the desperation with which
we
all
crave
peace
in
the
world
&
in
our
lives.
—Heidi Mann
In the happy moments PRAISE GOD.
In the difficult moments SEEK GOD.
In the quiet moments TRUST GOD.
In every moment THANK GOD.
“Laugh as much as you breathe & love
as long as you live. Trust your journey”
They laughed a little louder; they cried a
little softer; they lived a little stronger;
because they stood together…FRIENDS.
SOMEDAY is made of a thousand tiny
NOWS.
The best things in life are the people we
love…the places we’ve been…and the
memories we’ve made along the way.
There is always always always
something to be thankful for so
remember to thank God every day.
Fold in personality.
Toss with generosity.
Pour in love from a heart that’s true.
Yield: One terrific person
Lack of planning on your part does not
constitute an emergency on my part.
When your head starts to worry & your
mind just can’t rest, put your thoughts
down on paper & let God do the rest.
Good morning…this is God.
Today I’ll be handling all your problems.
…so sit back, relax & leave everything to
me.
The light of God surrounds you.
The love of God enfolds you.
The presence of God watches over you.
The power of God protects you.
Wherever you are, God is!
Don’t cry because it’s over.
Smile because it happened.
If nothing ever changed, there’d be no
butterflies.
Recipe For An Amazing Person
Start with faith & honesty.
Mix in pure humility.
Add strength of character that rises
above the stress of life’s surprises.
FINGERPRINTS
Though I miss you every day & I know I
always will; you left me with a legacy of
love that lingers still. I’ll cling to precious
memories in this time that we’re apart, &
take comfort in your prints forever etched
upon my heart.
The Holy Alphabet
BETHANY TRIVIA
5. Who was the first president of our congregation?
6. Who was the first pastor of our congregation?
7. Where did our high school youth go, as a group, in July of 2014?
e. Luckenbach
f. Downtown Mason, TX
g. The swimming pool at Morris Ranch
h. Chicago
8. About how old is the baptismal font in our sanctuary?
e. It was purchased new from Concordia Church Supply in 2009.
f. It was donated to Bethany by St. Martins of Austin as a gift when
we moved to our current building in 1954.
g. It was purchased in the early 1900s & brought to the current
sanctuary when we moved in 1954.
h. We don’t know the exact age, but we know Martin Luther’s
mother-in-law owned it & Christopher Columbus was baptized in
it prior to 1492.
[Answers pg. 17]
ANSWERS TO BETHANY TRIVIA [pg. 21]
2. b
2. Via “the sum of $75 in gold
3. d
GOD
Stills You & Reassures You
Leads You & Enlightens You
Forgives You & Calms You
Encourages You & Comforts You
4. b
SATAN
Rushes You & Frightens You
Pushes You & Confuses You
Condemns You &Stresses You
Discourages You & Worries You
Although things are not perfect
Because of trial or pain
Continue in thanksgiving
Do not begin to blame
Even when the times are hard
Fierce winds are bound to blow
God is forever able
Hold on to what you know
Imagine life without His love
Joy would cease to be
Keep thanking Him for all the things
Love imparts to thee
Move out of “Camp Complaining”
No weapon that is known
On earth can yield the power
Praise can do alone
Quit looking at the future
Redeem the time at hand
Start every day with worship
To “thank” is a command
Until we see Him coming
Victorious in the sky
We’ll run the race with gratitude
Xalting God most high
Yes, there’ll be good times and yes some will be bad, but…
Zion waits in glory…where none are ever sad!
Submitted by Joann Leifeste
Fair Trade Coffee for Sale
rd
3 Sunday Every Month thru December
The Hope Circle & Bethany is supporting Lutheran World
Relief (LWR) by offering an assortment of fair trade coffee
for sale after services every 3rd Sunday each month
through December.
Watch your thoughts, they become words.
Watch your words they become actions.
Watch your actions they become habits.
Watch your habits they become character.
Watch your character it becomes your destiny.