July 2016 - Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran Church and School

The Suburban Bethlehem Star
Volume 16 Issue 7
deeplyrootedtogrow.org
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JULY 1, 2016
In This Issue
Letter from Pastor Bill and
Chairman Joel Nichols page 1-2
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is
unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:18 – NIV)
Prayer Corner
page 3
Dear Fellow Redeemed:
SBLS
page 4
Finance Secretary and
Treasurer Report
page 5
Elders Corner
page 6
Women’s Ministry
page 7
Senior Ministry
page 8
Music Ministry
page 9
David Easterday,
Pastor Emeritus
page 10
Stephen Ministry
page 10
Family Friendly
Partners Network
page 11
Birthdays
page 12
Ft. Wayne Lutheran
Community News
page 13
SBL Calendar
page 14
VBS registration (insert)
page 15-16
6318 W. California Rd
Ft. Wayne, IN 46818
church: (260) 484-7873
school: (260) 483-9371
This July issue of the “Suburban Bethlehem Star” is a
special issue. It is the first issue of our new Ministry Year for the 2016-17
season. We are also nearing the point of taking the next step forward in the
much discussed and proposed building project. For this article I have invited
our congregational chairman, Joel Nichols, to join me in writing this letter to
you. The Bible passage above serves as our theme verse for this 2016-17
Ministry Year (shortening it to a borrowed phrase from the next chapter of 2
Corinthians – “We walk by faith, not by sight”).
These are exciting days in the ministry of Suburban Bethlehem. We are this
well into the process of calling an Assistant Pastor (see the related article in
newsletter) and we have been discussing and working on this proposed building project for a number of years. We (Chairman Joel Nichols, Church Council, the Building Committee, the Capital Campaign Committee, staff and myself) believe it is time for us to take the next steps forward in this building
project. We do so in full faith and confidence that the number one reason
why we advocate this project is that we believe by doing so we can increase
our potential reach with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We passionately believe
this proposed project is no different than any other project Suburban Bethlehem has undertaken throughout her history. We have always taken this step
forward when we believe it will increase our reach with the Gospel of Jesus!
The Building Committee along with the Leadership team has been going over
what a building expansion might look like. Hopefully you have received, at
some point, a printout of the proposed floor plan and expansions. We have
also had individual one on one talks with members as to their concerns and
input. (And we have one more of these “Question & Answer” sessions scheduled on Wednesday, June 29 at 7:00 p.m. in Room 106.) Recently a survey
went out to better gauge where we are at as a Congregation – as of today we
have received responses from 57% of the congregation (225 surveys returned
out of 393 mailed).
(continued on page 2)
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The Suburban Bethlehem Star
(continued from Pastor Bill and Joel Nichols’ letter from page one)
The responses are, so far, 158 (70%) Yes; 7 (3%) No; 57 (25%) Undecided and 3 (1%) did not indicate an answer.
We have a team of individuals who will begin calling those who have not yet sent in a response.
We have scheduled a Special Voters’ Meeting on Thursday July 14 at 7:00 p.m. in the School Commons for all
members. (We will be providing pizza and drinks starting at 6:00 p.m. in the Commons.) We will be asking you,
the voters, to allow the Capital Campaign Committee to move forward with raising money for a building program. Based on how the Lord blesses the efforts of the Capital Campaign we will make any adjustments to the program once the results of the campaign have been determined (probably around Thanksgiving).
The biggest concern we hear from individuals is “how are we going to pay for this?” This is an excellent question
because we all recognize the SBL ministry would not be able to service a debt for the total project (total cost right
now stands at around $6 million). How do we even potentially want to reach for that total amount? We can look at
this total amount coming from three different sources: 1) gifts and pledges from the Capital Campaign; 2) serviceable
debt; and 3) funding from outside the SBL membership. This is what it might look like.
1) Gifts & Pledges from the Capital Campaign
- Current formulas provided by our Campaign Consultant from Capital Funding Services show a target of raising
between $1.5 – 2.0 million. Conservatively, we are looking at $1.2 – 1.5 million
2) Serviceable Debt
- Doing research and analysis on current giving and past history, we believe the SBL ministry can service a
debt no larger than $2.0 – 2.5 million (depends on the length of the loan – a $2.0 million loan over 20 years is a
monthly mortgage payment of around $11,000. The monthly mortgage payment for the last building project
nearly twenty years ago was around $8,000 a month.)
3) Funding outside SBL membership
- $300,000 will be available via a grant from The Lutheran Foundation (we will need to raise $600,000 in order
to qualify for that grant)
- The outside stretch of seeking $1.5 million or more from various non-SBL member sources such as alumni of
SBLS (who are not currently members) and other sources.
These are bold plans and this might be new territory for us as a congregation to enter (specifically seeking funding
from outside the congregation). We have an incredible Christian story to tell here at SBL. We have wonderful opportunities to spread the Gospel here in Indiana. People want to participate in this ministry, both those already inside our
walls and also those who are outside of our walls. Christ gave us many examples of Him giving more than was expected. Christ used both the twelve disciples, along with those outside of his group to grow the Kingdom and spread
the Gospel. Even in our own congregational history, we began in the 1880s with just a handful of families committing themselves to the work of our Lord at this place. Throughout the generations we have continued to step forward
in order to advance our ability to reach out with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We have an opportunity to do the
same. We invite you to be part of this discussion and decision. Join us on Thursday, July 14 at 7:00 p.m. in the
School Commons, as we propose to take this next step forward.
God bless you in the Name of Jesus!
Pastor Bill Mueller, SBL Sr. Pastor
Joel Nichols, SBL Chairman
Meeting Schedule:
Wednesday, June 29 – Question/Answer session in Room 106 7:00 p.m.
Thursday, July 14 – Pizza available in the School Commons 6:00 – 6:45 p.m.
Thursday, July 14 – Voters’ Meeting in the School Commons 7:00 p.m.
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
Meet Our New Members
Jerry & Norma Batchelder
Bishop & Heather BrownAddelyn, Abram and Arya
Sunday Bible Study begins at 9:30 a.m. in the School
Commons. Also repeated on Monday at 6:00 pm in
class room 204.
Special Sunday Morning
Bible Class Series on Prayer
The Sunday morning Bible class is now focusing on
the topic of prayer. God has given us a powerful tool,
along with a number of examples in scripture about
different aspects of prayer. As we go forward to call
an assistant pastor, seek God’s guidance for a possible
building project and pray for wisdom in the ministry
opportunities God wants us to offer, our prayers are a
critical tool in seeking His wisdom. Please join us on
Sunday mornings and Monday evenings to explore
this topic.
Sunday Senior Youth Bible Study Bible Study and
fellowship for High School youth in class room 204 at
SBL school at 9:30 am.
Children’s Sunday School Programs For all ages beginning at 9:30 am. Meet in the School Library.
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Pat Murphy
Matt & Lindsey Noll
Summer & Kyle Martin Family - Photo to come
All day long… That's the Christian prayer
life. When we do not know what to say, the
Holy Spirit, God's gift in Holy Baptism, is
perfectly lifting up our needs to the Almighty ear, Romans 8:26. All night long…
REM sleep (rapid eye movement) demonstrates our relaxed assurance that our prayers are being
processed. So, the Christian life is praying without ceasing, 1 Thessalonians 5:17.This is a holy, comforting
truth as you and I know of, read about, hear and imagine
human need for Christ's grace.
In need of a private, confidential prayer? The Prayer
Committee is prepared to serve you in Jesus' name, day
and night. If you have not picked up a card with the
names and phone numbers of the prayer team, there are
cards at the back of the sanctuary. The prayer team is
here to pray with you on the phone for any needs you or
others may have.
Things to pray for:
*Bless the process as we search for an assistant pastor
*Show us God’s will for a possible building program
*Be with our staff and leaders of the church and school
and give them wisdom
*Guide us in the ministries you want us to do both now
and in the future
Update - Assistant Pastor Call - The members of the
Assistant Pastor Search Committee have begun to conduct phone interviews with potential candidates. Please
keep the committee and this process in your prayers.
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
Little Disciples Summer Day Camp
Monday Minutes/ June 20, 2016
We are studying ancient Egypt during our Bible lesson times and focusing on the story of Moses. We are creating some fun Egyptian crafts as well. We have made Egyptian headdresses, burning bushes and many more.
Friday (6/17/16) we went to the Botanical Gardens
where many of the campers enjoyed the butterfly exhibit. It
was fun to see how many butterflies would land on us! In the
afternoon we played at Lawton Park.
Friday (6/24/16) we had a basketball clinic in the
morning where we will learn new skills and sharpen the skills
we already have. In the afternoon we will put on a talent
show at Covington Manor.
Upcoming field trips include Fox Island, IPFW Children’s Festival and Matea Park. Lamplighter’s Hockey Club
will visit camp in two weeks.
Have a Blessed Week—The Little Disciples Camp Staff
Catching butterflies at Botanical garden, visiting and singing
at a nursing home.
SBL Youth
Hello all: Below is the high school youth group schedule. There are yellow flyers in the back of the church
with this information too.
July 28 - Trip to CEDAR POINT
If you have questions, please contact Tina Harmeyer.
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Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran Church and School
disciples each generation to grow deeply, serve
humbly and go boldly in Christ to advance God’s
Kingdom.
Don’t like the lines at Back to School Night?
Mrs. Macke and Mrs. Blessing have the solution. Come
visit us over the summer and pay your fees in advance.
We will also have late hours available for you to come
in and make payments prior to Back to School night.
Office hours this summer will be 9:00 until 2:00 and on
these days we will have extended hours.
Tuesday July 26th
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Thursday July 28th
9:00 am – 7:00 pm
st
Monday August 1
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tuesday August 2nd
9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Back to School night is Wednesday, August 3 @ 6:30.
SUBURBAN BETHLEHEM LUTHERAN CHURCH
Summary of Full Council Meeting
June 13, 2016
Chairman:
Joel Nichols
Stewardship:
Richard Baker
Vice-Chairman:
Doug Zollinger (absent)
Summer Ministries:
Stacey Rennecker
Treasurer:
Keersten Nichols
Christian Outreach:
Deb Myers
Financial Secretary:
Deb Reinking
Trustee:
Ron Dreyer
Elder:
John Wiehe
Pastor:
Bill Mueller
Christian Ed. & Youth:
Allyson Ackey (absent)
Principal:
Rich Brune
School Ministry:
Justin Hoffman
Secretary:
Jacki Greener
Minutes: Submitted & Approved from April 21, 2016.
Financial Reports: Submitted & Approved.
Board Reports: Committee Chairs presented updates of
activities / projects.
Other Business / Discussions:
Building security
Concordia Plans & Health Insurance
Building project update
Voter’s Meeting 7/10/16 - Agenda
Respectfully,
Jacki Greener, Secretary
(A complete copy of the Official Minutes will be submitted to the Church Office upon approval from the Ministry Board at the next Council Meeting.)
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
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Financial Secretary
Offerings SBLC
General Fund
Building Fund
Other
May 2016
Actual
Budget
$79,816.20
$12,962.10
$47,048.88
$94,016.45
$4,912.90
$42,170.30
Actual
YTD 5/31/16
Budget
$859.556.92
$ 64,689.00
$571,564.53
Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran Church Cash Balances
May 31, 2016
Unpaid bills for May 31, 2016:
Cleaning Company
Missions
Concordia HS
Total
Checking Accounts
General
Health Reimb Account
Summer Camp
Total
Savings Accounts
Lutheran Church Extension Fund CD
Lutheran Church Extension Special Fund
Helping Hands
Women’s Ministry
Building Fund
Cemetery
Total
Designated funds in General Account
$902,557.92
$47,163.84
$404,834.88
$1,658.00
$1,500.00
$6,200.00
$9,358.00
Balance
$ 13,281.69
$ 2,379,03
$ 2,593.86
$18,254.58
Balance
$ 1,895.50
$ 157,778.89
$217.50
$ 5,155.47
$ 40.275.74*
$1,747.54
207,070.64
Balance
Adult Bible Class
629.15
Youth
$159.777
Thrivent Advocate
$1,447.00
Music Groups
$ 201.62
Outreach
$186.27
Tuition Assistance
$10,991.00
Haiti Trip
Miscellaneous
$ 1,050.00
$ 3,988.76
Total
$18,653.57
Monthly Account Activity
Receipts
General
Building Fund
Total
YTD Account Activity
Disbursements
$125,842.08
$120,147,51
$13,101.10
$2,997.00
$138,943.18
$123,144.51
Receipts
Disbursements
General
539,799.98
$591,979.39
Building Fund
$36,495.57
$2.997.00
$576,295.55
$594,976.39
Total
*Feb loan from Building Fund to General of $15,100
Pd $4000 in April for survey-reduce BF loan to $11,100
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
June Elders’ Corner
Official Acts
Membership as of May 31, 2016:
A Fork in the Road.
In Lewis Carroll’s book Alice in Wonderland, Alice runs
into a cat and the conversation goes something like this
“Cat: Where are you going?
Alice: Which way should I go?
Cat: That depends on where you are going.
Alice: I don’t know.
Cat: Then it doesn’t matter which way you go.”
We have probably all had similar feelings, not knowing
where to go or what to do next. SBL is at one of those
“forks in the road”. Do we go down a path that is familiar and comfortable and everything will be just fine? No
ruffled feathers. No big challenges. Stay inside our comfort zone. Not so bad.
Rather do we go down another path, call an assistant pastor. One that is outreach focused, one that might invite us
to get outside our comfort zone and talk to someone
about our faith. Further down the path is the opportunity
for a building program to expand our mission here. Create an even more welcoming environment to share who
SBL is and why we are here. Create opportunities to
build on or expand on our current ministries.
For a Christian it does not really matter which way we
go because we know where we are going, heaven. But is
the better path one of outreach? Shouldn’t Matthew 28:
19, 20 be our guide whenever possible?
Yes we have some big challenges as a congregation and
individuals coming up, but we can do it. I encourage
each of you to pray on these things. Pray for Pastor Bill,
Rich Brune and our staff. Pray for our leadership team,
boards and volunteers. Pray for God to give you strength
to get involved, because it does matter which way you
go.
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Baptized:
992
Communicant:
744
Average Attendance: 478
Funerals:
Jacob Myers
Baptisms:
Emersyn Rose Yoder
Carson Henry Martin
Junior Confirmations:
Miranda Jean Bartz
Taylor Rae Brooks
John Fairfield Burnett
Joshua Michael Gallmeier
Keira Lee Hoffman
Hanna Renae King
Emma Patricia Tandy Lehman
Miah Riley Linnemeier
Sarah Elizabeth Mueller
Michael Ivan Rogers
Tyson Troy Urban
Wedding:
Matthew Crim and Molly Rorick
From the Indiana District Office
The staff of the Indiana District meets for prayer and
Bible Study on Monday mornings. At this time they
pray for the congregations and schools of the district.
This week our congregation will be in their prayers.
Continue to remember them in your prayers as they carry out the work of the Kingdom.
God Bless
John Wiehe and your Board of Elders
The Grief Support Group at Cross Connections will continue to meet during the summer on the 2nd & 4th Thursdays starting
June 23 (July 14 & 28, August 11 & 25).
The meetings will continue to take place at
Cross Connections main offices--4618 E.
State Blvd, Suite 300; time: 5:30p.m. Anyone who has
experienced a loss of any kind is welcome, and it is not
necessary to be at every meeting. For more information
call our office—(260-373-0213)
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
Kay Howard
WOMEN’S MINISTRY
Call for special meeting ….. Tuesday,
July 12 at 6:30 pm. Before you know it,
Saturday, October 22 will be here and
that means one thing…planning needs to
start now for the OctoberFest Dinner
sponsored by the Women’s Ministry. This “taste testing” meeting will be held at Jane Wiehe’s home: 6728
Leesburg Road. It is important you contact Jane Wiehe
if you plan to attend. (341-8755) – if no answer, please
leave a message.
We invite all women including junior youth (8th grade
and older) to be part of the Women’s Ministry - a very
important ministry of Suburban Bethlehem. Have questions? Need more information? Please contact Jane
Wiehe or Kay Howard (484-7873) for more information.
Women’s 7@7 All ladies of Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran church are invited to attend our 7@7 meeting on
Thursday evening, July 7th, at Yen Ching out Southwest
at 7:00 pm, Covington Plaza, 6410 W. Jefferson Blvd,
Fort Wayne, IN 46804, Phone: (260-436-7788.) Yen
Ching is a wonderful place for Chinese food from their
Crab Rangoon to their Chicken Sizzling Rice. Last time
we got together we all had a fantastic time and a record
turnout. This gives our ladies a chance to get out and
meet others at our church. Please feel free to bring a
friend, so we can get acquainted!
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Suburban Bethlehem Prayer Chain
If you have a prayer request for our prayer chain,
please call Beverly Schmidt 489-5971 in the mornings
and Mary Zelt (627-2228) in the evenings. God has
given us such a powerful tool in prayer and we thank
Him for the blessings of the women who are willing to
be our faithful prayer warriors.
Summer Ministries
Little Disciples Day Camp This outreach ministry offered by Suburban Bethlehem provides a Christian alternative to daycare and is a wonderful outreach tool. At
the time of this writing, the camp welcomed 23 different
campers who have attended camp for exciting days filled
with crafts, Bible lessons and prayer, a tour of the Old
Testament cities, free play, kickball, fieldtrips off site,
speakers and much more! Free breakfast and lunch are
provided. Little Disciples opens at 7:30AM Monday
through Friday and ends at 5:00PM. Camp activities
take place between 8:00AM – 3:30PM. There is plenty
of space for everyone to attend so spread the word that
children ages 4 (potty-trained) through 12 are welcomed
to attend. Contact Rachel Gillespie (750-7496) or Kay
Howard (484-7873) for more information.
Vacation Bible School July 11-14, 2016
VBS is almost here! Join us for CAVE QUEST- Following Jesus the Light of the World, MondayThursday from 9:00AM-12:00PM. If you have not
signed up, please do so on Sunday, July 3rd, in the back
of church or call Steve Pippenger (260-443-9476) /
Summer Martin (260-705-5964) to register. Children
should meet in the sanctuary each morning. Parents
please walk your child to his/her class pew and sign
them in upon arriving in the morning. Plan to pick up
your child at the pew at 12:00PM to sign them out each
day. There will be a celebration lunch for parents and
children following the closing service Thursday at noon.
(Due to the fact that we no longer serve daily government lunches onsite, lunch will not be available Monday-Wednesday.)
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
Senior Ministry
New At Suburban Bethlehem or
a long-time member?
One of the most interesting things
to take place on a family farm is
the combining of older “laying
hens” with the new pullets. We
used to do this at night, carrying in
the newer members of the laying
flock and letting them hop up onto their new places on
the roost.
There was always a little commotion as the youngsters
found their places among those who had been there for
years. But because the long-termers were sleepy, they
didn’t make much of an immediate ruckus. That they
saved for the next night when the flock headed together
for the roost just past sundown. Suddenly, there was that
wizened look that said, “You’re going to roost there?
I’ve been roosting there for longer than you’ve been
alive. Think again, youngster!”
So much difference exists between this stressful rural
scene and the welcoming of new members into the family we call “Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran Church and
School.” Here we are equal partners in the effort that
God has given this church/school family composed of
7th generation “heritage members” and the newest of the
new. So much to be done! So many new friends to take
on the task!
Chickens don’t stay on the roost: they have things to do!
And so it is for us – a new pastor to call, a potential new
addition to the facility that will enable greater ministry, a
new look at adjusting aspects of ministry that will make
homes and congregation supportive partners in impacting our families AND the community around us. So
much more. So, welcome new members of the family.
We are SO happy you are here with us as part of the
team! Frankly, you have a great opportunity as a newer
member to add another aspect to church/school membership. Get involved as a “family member” and you’ll enjoy SBLC just that much more.
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A Word To The Young At Heart
Have you given any serious thought to taking part in the
Senior Adult Ministry effort at Suburban Bethlehem?
I’m talking to those who are either retired or able to
take off a Thursday now and then. Really, these gatherings are a way of expanding your circle of friends AND
an avenue for taking part in activities both at church
and on field trips that widen our horizon.
We have made a few extra phone calls on a kind of rotating basis, inviting more to join us. The next time one
of our callers reaches you, give some thought to joining
us just once. I’m pretty certain that you’ll respond well
to the variety of things we do together AND that you’ll
make some new friends. Think about it!
Summer Outeach Events At SBLC
Our Board of Outreach will be seeking your involvement as we come in contact with the larger community
at the Three Rivers Festival Parade [July 9th.] Watch
the worship folder and other articles in the newsletter
for ways to be involved.
The reason for taking the trouble to do this is simple:
we represent our congregation/school and our Savior to
those around us. We want to involve them in all aspects of our ministry and this event give us that opportunity. So, consider getting involved. It is great fun!
And be sure other members of your family wave from
alongside the parade route.
SENIOR ADULTS LOOK FORWARD TO
FALL . . .
After our last gathering this spring, the Senior Adults will
be on hiatus during the summer, prepared to gather once
again in September where fall plans look like this . . .
 Sep 15 SBLC sanctuary, Fraud and Scams presentation;
after devotions and the Lord’s Supper, we’ll learn about
what to look out for in terms of being hood-winked especially as senior citizens, the favorite demographic for
those who don’t want to earn an honest living.
 Oct 13 [note date change] Blue Gate Dinner & Theatre;
the plan includes leaving from the church parking lot
 Nov 17 Apollo Design Technology tour
 Dec 15 SBLC sanctuary, Kids Christmas Carols; of
course, our favorite gathering of the year brings us together with the younger set from our school and a Christmas potluck. Come, bring a friend AND a white elephant gift marked “man,” “woman” or either.
We’ll look forward to your being with us this fall. Be safe
‘til then.
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The Suburban Bethlehem Star
Matt Johnston
Happy summer! I pray the continuation of the “dogdays” of summer are suiting you well, especially when
there seems like so much to do and so much to accomplish! So it is here at SBL – so many wonderful things
the Lord has given us to do while we have time to do it.
As we continue in our journey through the Divine Service, I pray it has been a time of reflection on what our
services are all about and what they mean for you. We
enter the second portion of the Divine Service called,
“The Service of the Word”. This includes the scripture
readings, Creed(s), Hymn of the Day, Sermon, Children’s Message, Prayers of the Church and Offering/
Offertory. For now, lets focus on the readings and the
sung responses we have.
The first reading, or in most instances, the Old Testament reading is the foundation for the New Testament.
We read it and meditate on it just as Christ himself did.
As we read the Old Testament, it is helpful to remember
that Christ is at is center! The Old Testament tells how
God prepared His people and the world for the coming
of His Son by saving them, time and time again, from
their sin and folly. For us, it becomes the unfolding story of salvation being worked out as God remembers His
promises to us. The hymnal contains many hymns, especially the Old Testament canticles, highlighting this
very thing: the story of salvation found in the Old Testament.
The second reading, or Epistle, makes great texts for our
personal study through the week. In the book of Acts,
we read that the early Church was devoted to the teachings of the Apostles and so is the church today by the
regular, public reading of their letters.
Next, is the Alleluia Verse, or sometimes called Alleluia
and Verse, or Triple Alleluia. By singing this, we praise
the Lord for He alone has the words of eternal life. We
trust in God above ALL things. Along with that, I think
by singing this small line of music, we acknowledge the
Lord’s presence in our midst through the upcoming
reading of the Gospel by standing and singing,
“Alleluia!” (Praise God!) Each Divine Service in the
hymnal has a different Alleluia verse.
(continued next column)
My favorite is setting four when we sing, “Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia. These things are written that you may
believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.”
The Gospel. Some say it’s the most important of the
readings, and some say it combines all three readings.
The Gospels of course come from the life and teachings
of Christ. It establishes the theme for the day and is
usually noticeable in the prayers, sermon, hymns, and
other parts of the service proper to the day. They are
some of the best things to discuss with the family
around the dinner table. We sing, sometimes speak, a
response to the Gospel. The history of where this
comes from is unknown, but probably was found initially in an original Mass setting centuries ago. But here,
once again, we acknowledge the power of God’s Word
by proclaiming to Him, not merely singing or speaking
by rote or because the bulletin tells us to do so, but
again, by proclamation, we PRAISE GOD FOR HIS
WORD! “Glory to You, O Lord!” and “Praise to You,
O Christ!” I really wish there were exclamation points
after those responses.
The summer time for the Music Ministry involves a lot
of filing, cleaning up from the previous musical season,
and LOTS of planning for the season ahead. Please remember, that without your help, involvement, and support there is no Music Ministry in churches and that includes us. Look for more information soon about how
YOU can be a part of the Choir, contemporary groups,
Handbell Choir, and instrumental opportunities. Don’t
be afraid of what seems to be a scary word these days:
commitment. The Music Ministry and other important
ministries are what keep our Church healthy!
Use this wonderful season of summer to remember
God’s many blessings in your life in and out of worship.
Enjoy the sun, the long days, and “singing in your heart
to God, giving praise to Him for all that He has done.”
T Soli Deo Gloria T
Matt Johnston
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The Suburban Bethlehem Star
David Easterday—Pastor Emeritus
Dear Friends in Christ,
Last month I told you about the baby robins in our hanging
plant basket. The mother robin normally sits on the eggs
for two weeks, and then after hatching, the little birds grow
for two weeks before leaving the nest. We enjoyed peeking into the nest to watch the birds grow.
Near the end of the two weeks, one of the birds was
perched on the edge of the nest looking across the yard. It
was a young one because it had a speckled breast. Later
that day the nest was empty. I realize what I had seen.
That little robin was preparing for its first flight. In my
mind, I heard the bird saying, “I think I can, I think I can!”
Life is like this situation with the robin. There are many
times when we are perched on the edge of a situation and
wonder what is ahead. Will we succeed? Will we fail?
What will the future bring? When we think this way, we
may become paralyzed, unable to move ahead in our lives.
We need to be reminded that God is with us in all of this. I
am comforted by the words of Isaiah.
But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O
Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel; “Fear not, for
I have redeemed you; I have called you by name,
you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I
will be with you; and through the rives, they shall
not overwhelm you; when you walk through the fire
you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not
consume you. For I am the Lord your God, the holy One of Israel, your Savior. (Isaiah 43:1-3a)
God has demonstrated his presence by sending his Son,
Jesus Christ, to walk with us in these times of challenges.
Jesus then went where no man could possibly travel as He
went to the cross for our sins of fear and anxiety. When
we are perched on the edge of some anxious moment, we
have a Savior who is with us! Look to Jesus as your
strength!
Pastor David Easterday
As I was praying for God to provide direction for this article, knowing that I wanted to reach any would-be Stephen
Ministers, “American Ninja Warriors” was on TV. Suddenly a man did a fantastic run through the course and as
he victoriously ripped his shirt off atop the “warped wall,”
written on his chest was 1 Peter 4:10 ”Each of you
should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various
forms.” Wow! That’s how God is, we don’t know how He
is going to provide, but He always does. We have no idea
how He plans to use us to reach others. Saying, “here I am
Lord, send me” can be exciting and intimidating at once.
So many times He responds in a way that we fear or think
is impossible. How many times in the Bible have we read
about others feeling the same way? Yet as they moved forward, relying on God to lead the way, He was able to use
those individuals in miraculous ways.
God has graciously gifted every one of us in a variety of
ways and wants for those gifts to be used to benefit others.
The gifts of love and compassion are the foundation for
being a Stephen Minister, we can help you build the other
skills needed. We provide a confidential listening ear and
walk alongside those facing challenging times. The seemingly simple act of patiently and lovingly listening as
someone shares whatever he needs to at the time is a way
that God can bring healing to a hurting persons aching
heart.
To continue to grow and strengthen this ministry, we need
you and the gifts you have been given. Please talk with or
e-mail any of our Stephen Ministry Leaders to let us know
that you are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister.
Contact information:
Pastor Bill ([email protected])
Pastor David Easterday ([email protected])
Kay Howard ([email protected])
Angela Mock ([email protected] or 710-2792).
or at the church office at (484-7873)
We are planning to offer a Stephen Ministry Training
Class this fall from September 12th – February 6th. The
class will meet weekly and will train people to walk along
side of someone who is going through a difficult time and
needs Christian support. Stephen Ministry does not involve counseling. Would you join us in this endeavor?
We will determine if the class will meet in the afternoon or
evening depending on the schedules of those who sign up.
Pastor Easterday, Kay Howard, Angela Mock (484-7873)
11
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
Mission Statement
"Family Friendly Partners Network (FFPN) exists to train and equip churches to partner with homes
to strengthen and pass on faith in Jesus Christ to this generation and those that follow."
Rob Myers
Your FFPN team will meet this month to discuss the Parenting and Faith Formation event from April, as well as the
upcoming Marriage event in October. Things are beginning to move fast now, and your team is engaged in bringing
information and ministry opportunities to the SBL family.
Our team thanks those who participated in the “Paradigm Shift” Bible study series over the last several weeks. We
received very positive feedback about the series, and about its content; namely that our congregation can and should
position itself to support families in the faith formation of their children.
A driving factor in this entire discussion (of helping parents to instill the Christian faith in their children) can be
summed up in the following illustration. When I get to Heaven, I fully expect to be welcomed into Jesus' arms. But I
also fully expect him to ask me one question. It won't be "what did you do to earn your way here?" (I doubt he will
set me up with that). Instead, it will be "Should I expect to see your children here someday?" Imagine if we, as parents, could confidently say to Him “Yes! I made my children’s faith in you a priority in my life and theirs.” My job
as a Christian parent is to make sure that I do everything I can to make sure my children return to God’s loving arms.
I mentioned in the May newsletter that each month I will share an example of what it means to be a “Family Friendly
Church”. Some of these examples focus on how we manage our affairs at home; some focus on how the church assists the home. Please take some time to follow along with me and reflect on these examples. As we move forward, I
will repeat the examples from prior months.
Example #1: Managing the home is the most important work that needs to be done and I must treat it so, as I schedule my calendar.
Example #2: If we are to nurture faith in our children, and family at large, if we are to pass on our values and understanding, we must be willing to spend a quantity of time in a quality way.
Example #3: The church plays a significant role in the faith and life of congregational members, but it can be significantly bad or good depending on its structure and programming.
Consider: The Church should not be structured in a way that it regularly pulls families apart. There’s enough of that
in our world. The Church should be structured to draw people together, and especially to give families time to interact together and talk about faith and life. Reflect on the following:

Agree or disagree:
“My church, in its program and structure, pulls my family apart.”

Are there changes that need to be made?
Share why.
Family Friendly Partners Update: SBL will host the Northeast Indiana network at SBL for “Event #5: Marriage
Ministry” on Sept 30-Oct 1, 2016. If you are interested in volunteering to help with beverage, snack or lunch service,
please contact Rob or Deb Myers, or the church office (484-7873).
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
HappyBirthday!
12
JUly Birthdays
AUGUST
Opening SBLS Worship Service
SBLS Back to school
Lutheran Night at TinCaps
SEPTEMBER
Labor Day
SBLS no school
OCTOBER
FFPN
Women’s Germanfest Event
7
11
20
5
15/16
1
22
FIRST TIME VISITORS . . .
It is our intention that these folks get one
of our booklets that gives useful information about Suburban Bethlehem. If you
are accompanying these new friends, be
sure to introduce them to a couple of people including
the pastors. It would be really helpful also if you’d personally bring them over to the Welcome Center.
If
our Greeters are elsewhere, grab a copy of the booklet
for them from the container. That will really be helpful
as we make a joint effort to make these new friends
welcome at SBL.
Concordia Lutheran High School seeks a qualified
individual to serve as an Elementary Band Instructor.
This is a part-time position. This individual must possess a high school diploma, college degree preferred,
minimally taking upper-level music education courses. Must have competence in brass, woodwinds, and
percussion pedagogy at beginner and intermediate levels, and must be punctual, dependable, responsible
and organized; comfortable working with 4th- 8th
graders. To apply for this position and to see the full
position description and responsibilities, please visit www.clhscadets.com/employment.
Lake James Chapel Announcement
Are you going to “the lake” this summer? If you are going
to the northeast Indiana lake country, plan to attend the indoor/outdoor worship service at Lake James Lutheran Chapel offered every Sunday from Memorial Day weekend to
Labor Day weekend. Worship begins at 9 am with local
guest pastors and special music each Sunday. The location is
Glen Eden Springs (eastern shore) 80 Lane 200D Lake
James, Angola, IN. 46703. All are welcome.
1 Phyllis Bear
1 Marissa Cantrell
1 Hannah DeFrain
1 Isaac Jomo
1 Amy Mews
2 Chase Williams
3 Katelyn Reinhard
4 Heather Brown
4 Kimberly Cor n man
4 Seth Gunkel
4 Larry Zelt
5 John Arnold
5 Cari Burns
5 Karla Hough
5 Samuel Kincaid
6 Carolyn Linnemeier
6 Drew Reynolds
6 Dawn Zollinger
7 Bonita Bultemeier
7 Baylee Cobur n
7 Auroa Messmann
7 Rob Myers
8 Nicholas Ely
8 Brooke Schaefer
9 Terry Berger
9 Jessica Greener
9 Amber Yoder
10 Morgan Fur ni ss
10 Cohen Gass
10 Gavin Guerrero
10 Christopher Hook
10 Marilyn Link
10 Aubrey Martin
10 Kaitlyn Snyder
11 Colin Witte
12 Eleanor Doell
12 Kimberly Fox
12 Michaela Weir
13 Shaun Burridge-Waymoth
13 Lily Freimark
14 Blaire Labit
14 Hayley Urban
15 Luke Gallmeier
15 Kayla Hough
15 Todd Lehman
16 Rafael Greener
16 Gary Sutter
17 James Streit
19 Janice Hitzemann
19 Veda Null
19 Jessica Schaefer
20 Christopher Akey
20 Madison Lukins
20 Lindsey Noll
20 Phillip Rentschler
22 Michael Brune
22 Randolph Castle
22 Sandra Ecenbarger
22 Lucas Johnson
22 Kathy Kellaris
22 Julie Reinking
22 Carl Schmidt Jr.
22 Deborah Schroeder
22 Courtney Stahl
23 Kim Kruse
23 Mike Pick
24 Christina Har meyer
25 Addyson Comstock
25 Matthew Oswalt
25 Charlotte Stahl
26 Anne Griebel
26 John Wiehe
27 Margaret Baker
27 Benjamin Tang
28 Edden Carter
28 Jaden Jarrett
29 Kristen Gallmeier
29 Ethan Yoder
30 Betty Hockemeyer
30 Karen Moyer
“God Bless and Keep You the Whole Year Through”
If your birthday is not listed or is incorrectly listed, please call the
church office. Thank You!
Sundays at 8:00. 37th
season at Foellinger
Theatre in Franke Park
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
Ft Wayne Lutheran Community News
13
Mission Statement
Concordia Lutheran High School pursues
Christ-centered educational excellence
that equips individuals for lifelong learning and service as disciples of Jesus Christ.
What’s Happening at CLHS
Concordia Lutheran High School—1601 St. Joe River Drive,
Fort Wayne, IN 46805 - 483-1102 - www.clhscadets.com
July 3, 2016 – Galatians 6:2
“Carrying Others Burdens”
by Rev. Dr. Daniel J. Brege, St. Paul Lutheran Church~Decatur, IN
July 10, 2016 – Luke 10:25-37
“Who’s Your Neighbor?”
Summer Registration
Save the date! Summer Registration will be 4-7 p.m.
July 26 (seniors and siblings) and 1-7 p.m. July 27 and
28 for all other students. This is a time to pay tuition
bills, pick up books, get your lockers and more.
by Rev. Dr. Thomas R. Ahlersmeyer, Holy Cross Lutheran Church,
Fort Wayne, IN
Summer Alumni Play
Summer Alumni show is "The Odd Couple," Neil Simon's hilarious comedy. Aaron Bennett and Matt Christian star as Felix and Oscar, with Kasey (Gater) Hall
and Amie (Wagner) Pishvai supporting as Gwendolyn
and Cecily Pigeon. Performances are July 9 at 7:30 p.m.
and July 10 at 2 p.m. at the Downtown Allen County
Public Library Theater. Tickets are $7. Hope you are
able to join us!
July 24, 2016 – Luke 11:1-13
“Asking of God”
Congrats to the new Color Guard
Congratulations to the young women who have auditioned for and been accepted to perform with the
Marching Cadets! They are Grace Gallmeier, Jordan
Stevens, Abbey Zelt, Ethel Taylor, Hannah Quinn,
Eugene Parker 3v3 Alumni Tournament
We are hosting the first annual Eugene Parker 3v3
Alumni Basketball Tournament on Saturday, July 23 at
the high school. The cost is $120 per team or $30 per
player. Each player will receive a T-shirt, and there will
be an alumni social following the tournament. Each
team must have at least ONE player who was a part of
the boys basketball program, in addition to graduating
from CLHS. To reserve your team spot, please contact
Basketball Coach Austin Thoms at (260) 302-2565 or
[email protected] by July 13.
WANTED: Gently Used Uniforms
If you have any gently used uniform clothing that you
will not be using, please donate it to CLHS for resale to
next year's students. You may drop off your uniforms at
CLHS in the main office any time or turn them in to
Miss Holtslander, teacher or through the school office.
The uniforms will then be sold to CLHS students at discounted rates during registration and throughout the
next school year. Thanks for your support!
June 17, 2016 – Luke 10:38-42
“Complications and Challenges”
by Rev. James L. Elsner, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church~Stroh,
IN
by Rev. Dr. Daniel J. Brege, St. Paul Lutheran Church~Decatur, IN
July 31, 2016 – Colossians 3:1-11
“Living With a Purpose”
by Rev. Paul E. Shoemaker, Emanuel Lutheran Church~New Haven,
IN
Lutheran Ministries Media, Inc.
“Worship for Shut-Ins”
(260) 471-5683
Email: [email protected]
Mission Statement
Sharing Christ’s love through ministry and media.
On July 24th the Little Disciples choir will sing along
with the Bethlehem Choral.
Thank you for your partnership in the Gospel. If you know
of people who have been touched by this ministry, we
would be honored to hear those stories. We request that you
continue to pray for Worship for Shut-Ins as we seek to
share Christ's love through word and song.
LUTHERAN HOUR BROADCAST ON SUNDAYS:
WOWO (1190 AM) and ( 92.3) at 10:30 am
Daily devotions www.lhm.org/dailydevotions
WORSHIP FOR SHUT-INS:
Sunday 6:30 am: WPTA-TV21 Comcast 2
Sunday 8:00 am: Frontier TV9; Comcast 252; Digital 33.2
Sunday 11:30 am: WINM-TV12/38;
Sunday 4:00 pm & Monday 10:00 am
Comcast 55 and Frontier 25
www.worshipforshutins.org
9:15 am
Fellowship
Bible Study, Sunday School,
9:30 am
Youth Bible Study
31 Worship 8:00 & 10:30 am
9:15 am
Fellowship
Bible Study, Sunday School,
9:30 am
Youth Bible Study
24 Worship 8:00 & 10:30 am
9:15 am
Fellowship
Bible Study, Sunday School,
9:30 am
Youth Bible Study
17 Worship 8:00 & 10:30 am
9:30 am
9:15 am
Worship 8:00 & 10:30 am
Voters Meeting 9:30 am
Fellowship
Sunday School and
Youth Bible Study
10
9:15 am
Fellowship
Bible Study, Sunday School,
9:30 am
Youth Bible Study
3 Worship 8:00 & 10:30 am
Sun
6:00 pm
Bible Study
8:00 am
6:00 pm
5;30 pm
8:00 pm
Little Disciples
Day Camp
Bible Study
Stephen Ministry
Resonate
25
Worship Service 7:00 pm
8:00 am
Little Disciples
Day Camp
26
Little Disciples
Day Camp
19
Little Disciples
Day Camp
8:00 pm
Resonate
18
Worship Service 7:00 pm
Elders’ Meeting
5:30 pm
Stephen Ministry
8:00 am
8:00 am
7:00 pm
7:00 pm
Redeemed
6:00 pm
Bible Study
9:00 am
Women’s Ministry 6:30 pm
VBS
9:00 am
8:00 am
8:00 am
7:00 pm
Resonate
12
Little Disciples
Day Camp
7:00 pm
Building
Committee
5 Little Disciples
8:00 am
Day Camp
Tue
VBS
Little Disciples
Day Camp
11
Worship Service 7 :00 pm
SBL Church and
School Offices closed.
6:00 pm
Bible Study
Happy Fourth
of July
4 Worship Service 7:00 pm
Mon
8:00 am
27
Little Disciples
Day Camp
Little Disciples
Day Camp
20
VBS
13
Little Disciples
Day Camp
8:00 am
8:00 am
9:00 am
8:00 am
8:00 am
6:00 pm
9:00 am
8:00 am
28
Little Disciples
Day Camp
21
Little Disciples
Day Camp
8:00 am
8:00 am
Voters’ Meeting
7:00 pm
Gather to eat
VBS
14
Little Disciples
Day Camp
Women’s 7 at 7
Parade Float Build 5:30 pm
7
Little Disciples
Day Camp
Thu
0 1 6
Parade Float Build 5:30 pm
6
Little Disciples
Day Camp
Wed
J U LY 2
5:30 pm
5:30 pm
Shoda/Fretz
Wedding
5:00 pm
29
Last Day of
Little Disciples
8:00 am
Day Camp
Wedding
Rehearsal
22
Little Disciples
8:00 am
Day Camp
15
Little Disciples
8:00 am
Day Camp
Wedding
Rehearsal
8:00 am
3:00 pm
30
Men’s Bible
8:00 am
Study
Zelt/Brown
Wedding
23
Men’s Bible
8:00 am
Study
16
Men’s Bible
8:00 am
Study
Smith/Daniels
Wedding 2:00 pm
3 Rivers Parade
9 Men’s Bible
8:00 am
Study
2
Men’s Bible
Study
1
Little Disciples
8:00 am
Day Camp
8
Little Disciples
8:00 am
Day Camp
Sat
Fri
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
SBL Calendar
14
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
15
Join us as we journey through the
cave with Jesus as our guide!
Monday, July 11 – Thursday, July 14
9:00a.m. – 12:00p.m.
Suburban Bethlehem
Lutheran Church
6318 W. California Rd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
Register by Sunday, July 3 to reserve your spot,
a CD, and a Cave Quest iron-on decal for your t-shirt!
Questions? Contact Steve Pippenger at (260) 443-9476 or
Summer Martin at (260) 705-5964.
Vacation Bible School Registration
Child's name _________________________________
Grade completed _________
Male
Female
Birthday _________________________
*One form per child, please.
Age _________
Parents' names ________________________________________________________________________________
Home address _________________________________ City/State__________________ Zipcode___________
Home phone _____________________________
Alternate phone ___________________________
Emergency contact person ________________________ Relationship to student ___________________________
Food allergies Y N
(If yes, please list) ____________________________________________________
Medical concerns Y N
(If yes, please explain) _______________________________________________________
Family doctor __________________________________ Doctor's phone _______________________________
Sidings attending VBS (names and ages) __________________________________________________________
Church affiliation ____________________________
Church membership at ____________________________
People who may pick up the child _______________________________________________________________
__________ VBS leaders have permission to photograph/film the minor(s) designated above in any manner or form for
any lawful purpose associated with this VBS program.
Parent's signature _____________________________________________
Date ______________________
16
The Suburban Bethlehem Star
Volunteers Needed!
Monday, July 11 – Thursday, July 14
Devotion/Prayers for Volunteers 8:30a.m.
VBS 9:00a.m. – 12:00p.m.
Suburban Bethlehem
Lutheran Church
6318 W. California Rd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46818
How do YOU feel led to help?
Check out the areas that are open –
there is something for EVERYONE
Name _____________________________ Phone number _____________________
Email ______________________________________ T-shirt size S M L XL 2XL
I am available on: _____ Monday
_____Tuesday
_____Wednesday
3XL
_____Thursday
_____ Group Leader (leads group to/from rotation centers)
Preferred age level(s):
_____ 3-5 year olds
_____ 3rd gr.
_____ Kindergarten
_____ 4th gr.
_____ 1st gr.
_____ 5th gr.
_____ 2nd gr.
_____ Group Leader Assistant (help group leader move kids to/from rotation centers)
Preferred age level(s):
_____ 3-5 year olds
_____ 3rd gr.
_____ Kindergarten
_____ 4th gr.
_____ 1st gr.
_____ 5th gr.
_____ 2nd gr.
_____ Snack Leader (prepare the snacks, review bible story & verse with classes)
_____ Snack Assistant (help Snack Leader prepare the snacks)
_____ Music Assistant (help Music Leader lead groups of kids in song, guided dances)
_____ Craft Assistant (help Craft Leader with planning and making crafts)
_____ Story-telling Assistant (help Story-teller with acting out bible stories)
_____ Nursery child care (watching the younger children of other volunteers)
_____ Decorator (prepare the sanctuary with decorations – Sunday afternoon/evening)
_____ Decoration Tear-down / Church clean up (clean up sanctuary on Thursday afternoon)
_____ Photographer (take group pictures and candid shots of various activities)
_____ Registration check-in (help with registration process at the beginning of the week)
_____ Newsletter printer/distributer (finalize, print, and distribute daily newsletters)
_____ Driver for Burmese children (transport Burmese children to and from VBS each day)
_____ Picnic celebration (help organize, serve, and clean up the picnic closing on Thursday afternoon)
Other:
For a full description of duties for each role or answers to other questions,
please contact Steve Pippenger at (260) 443-9476 or Summer Martin at (260)