August/September

August/September
BETHANY POST
UNITED METHODIST
CHURCH
Old One–
One–Room Schoolhouse
2013
“To Love, Obey, and
Proclaim Jesus Christ”
Inside this issue:
Staff Directory
2
Student
Fundraiser
3
Senior Citizens
Fellowship &
Disciple Studies
4
Bethany’s
Benevolent Team
Griefshare
Lost & Found
5
Bethany Missions
Adaptive Leadership
Divorce Care
Please be careful out there as some schools start
the end of August. Pray for the safety of our
students, preschoolers and faculties.
Our Sunday School movemove-up days are
September 7th & 8th. The children that come to
Bethany are from many different school
districts; East Penn, Parkland, Salisbury,
Allentown, Salem Christian, and
Lehigh Christian Academy, to name a few.
6–8
9
Moms Morning Out
Program
Twice Blessed &
Post Deadlines
10
Women’s Ministry
& Mentoring
11
Kingdom Building &
Elevation Picture
12
Small Groups
13-17
Annual
Conference 2013
18-20
Catasauqua
Celebrate Recovery,
& Bethany Vacation
House
20
Weddings, Births
Marriage Enrichment
Wayne Benjamin
21
Men’s Ministry Events
September Holidays
22
VBS Photos
23
Seniors’ Birthdays
24
Bethany Post
Page 2
Church Council
Dave Clark – Chairperson
Jim Brashear – Lead Pastor
Ralph Stevenson – Associate Pastor
Mike Byrd – Associate Pastor
Dan Heinmets – Executive Director
Christiana Buniak – Member at Large
Jeffrey Markle – Member at Large
John Oetting – Member at Large
Patty Dudley – Trustees Chairperson
Tim Woodbridge Page
– PPR2 Chairperson
Donna Long – Secretary (nonvoting)
Lay Leaders, (LL)
Paul Abbott
Cheryl Tucker
Class of 2014; serves on PPR and Finance
Class of 2015; serves on Executive Team
Lay Delegates to Annual Conference, (LD)
Jeff Markle
Trustees
Pastor - Parish Relations
Class of 2013
Lori Buss
Jeff Markle
Class of 2013
Mike Iacocca
Michael Durrwachter
Class of 2014
Paul Abbott, LL
Tim Woodbridge, Chairperson
Ellie Reichenbach
Class of 2014
Patty Dudley, Chairperson
Joan Graham
Class of 2015
Gene Davis
Barb Hornberger
Sue Redfield
Class of 2015
Gary Mitton
Greg DiGiacomo
Russ Siminiski
Jill Lichtenwalner
Lay Leadership (Nominations)
Class of 2013
Class of 2014
Mary Powell
Joe Riley
Julie DiGiacomo
John Long
Staff
Pastor Jim
Pastor Ralph
Donna Barnwell
Bethany - Wescosville Campus
1208 Brookside Road, Wescosville, PA 18106
Bethany - Catasauqua Campus
429 Walnut St., Catasauqua, PA 18037
610-395-3613
Web: www.bethanyumchurch.com E-mail: [email protected]
Telephone and E-mail Directory
Ministry Announcements:
Worship Schedule - Ext. 41
Senior Citizen’s Fellowship - Ext. 49
Youth Ministry - Ext. 44
Children’s Ministry - Ext. 48
Donna Barnwell, Ext. 18
Director of Lay Ministry
[email protected]
Dan Heinmets, Ext. 17
Executive Director
Jim Brashear, Ext. 13
Lead Pastor
[email protected]
Gordon Hendrickson, Ext. 47
Short-Term Missions Consultant
[email protected]
Quay Brashear, Ext. 39
Sports Ministry Consultant
[email protected]
Deborah Hill, Ext. 10
Secretary
Mike Byrd, Ext. 16
Assoc. Pastor, Catasauqua
[email protected]
Ken Hoover, Ext. 21
Director of Music & Worship
Keri Crawford, Ext. 33
Director of Small Groups
[email protected]
Adam Kern, Ext. 15
Director of Youth Ministry
Donna DiSciacca, Ext. 11
Secretary
[email protected]
Mark Dougherty, Ext. 37
Head Custodian
[email protected]
Kathi Frantz, Ext. 35
Financial Administrator
[email protected]
Nicolas Gold, Ext. 19
Director of Children’s Ministry
[email protected]
Robin Hagy, Ext. 29
Director of Bethany Christian
Preschool
[email protected]
Amy Hain, Ext. 40
Director of MMO
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Donna Long, Ext. 27
Office Manager
[email protected]
Dan Pense
Worship Leader, Catasauqua
[email protected]
Judy Rotkowski, Ext. 12
Secretary
[email protected]
Steve Skekel, Ext. 38
Director of Technical Arts
[email protected]
Ralph Stevenson, Ext. 14
Associate Pastor
[email protected]
Kathryn Wieder
Pastor of Visitation
[email protected]
Music Ministry Staff
Amanda Furbeck, Pianist
Kathleen, Anthony, Organist
If you have ideas, vision, etc. for Bethany UMC, contact any of the Council
Members. You can also communicate any feedback and/or questions to these
teams via the
[email protected]
Page 3
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August/September 2013
BETHANY STUDENT MINISTRIES
Valid only at participating restaurant listed above. Ticket valid for pancake event only.
Applebee's menu items are not included as part of purchase.
Bethany Post
Page 4
SENIOR CITIZENS’ FELLOWSHIP
Are you 55 years old or older? Then consider joining our Seniors’ Fellowship here
at Bethany Church. We meet every week; twice a month for Bible study, and twice
a month for fellowship events. Call the Church office and ask to be put on our
monthly notice mailings. Call 610-395-3613 ext. 49 for information about our
upcoming meetings. Also, you can call Pastor Ralph at extension 14 with any
questions.
Our Bible Studies are on Tuesdays: None in August. September 3rd and 17, 2013.
We meet in the Studio Room (off of Fellowship Hall) at 9:30 AM
SENIOR
CITIZENS
Our upcoming fellowship events are:
August 20 – A day at Cape May, NJ
August 27 – Picnic on the Parsonage lawn
September 10 – A day in Lancaster County
September 24 – Lunch at CiCi’s Pizza Buffet in Whitehall
Please RSVP for all Fellowship Events by the Friday before…it will help with planning. Thanks!
DISCIPLE 1 (requires 30 to 45
minutes of study time 6 days a
week.)
This study requires reading large
portions of Scripture each week and is
based on careful study and preparation.
During the course of thirty-four weeks,
groups will move through the biblical
stories of Creation (Genesis) to the New
Jerusalem (Revelation). The principal
Scripture for each session follows the
chronological movement of the biblical
story.
DISCIPLE 1
AND
DISCIPLE 4
BIBLE
STUDY
GROUPS
…will begin in
mid-August,
2013.
Meeting night
will be on
Tuesdays, twice
a month for
2 hours.
Contact Pastor
Ralph at the
Church office
with any
questions.
DISCIPLE FOUR (requires 20
to 30 minutes of study for
six days a week.)
UNDER THE TREE OF LIFE
concentrates on the writings in the
Old Testament – Ruth, 1 and 2,
Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther,
Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes,
Song of Solomon, Lamentations,
and Daniel. New Testament
Scriptures include the Gospel of
John; 1, 2, and 3, John; James; Jude;
and Revelation.
August/September 2013
Page 5
THE MINISTRY OF BETHANY’S BENEVOLENT TEAM
Pastor Mike leads this team of six individuals from our congregation. Together they seek to
assist the needy in our church and community. Each case is reviewed and the team collectively
decides on what should be done to best help individuals and families. Help may be:
rental assistance, utilities assistance, food assistance, gas assistance, as well as mandatory Christian
financial counseling and budget planning.
Last year, the Bethany Mission Fund provided $1,500.00 per month towards this benevolent
ministry. It is expected in 2013 that amount will be raised, as the needs continue to grow in our
area.
If you find yourself in need of assistance or financial counseling
please contact Pastor Mike at the church office.
Grief Share is a 12-week study group for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one.
Sessions will be at different times in the Parsonage (approx 1 hour). Our April, May, June
program for 2013 is completed. 2014 DATES: Our next seminar is January, February and March,
2014, is at 11:00 AM on Sundays. Another seminar is planned for September, October, and
November, 2014, for 7:30 PM on Wednesdays. Please contact Pastor Ralph if you are interested
and he will answer any questions you may have.
LOST AND FOUND
The following items are located in the 3 “Lost and Found” drawers behind the Welcome Desk. Items
will be disposed of if not claimed by September 2013. Questions? Call Liz Phillips, 610-395-5785.
Eye Glasses:
Dark Blue/Black rims
Jewelry: (look inside jewelry envelope)
Green plastic bracelet
Green beaded bracelet with silver beads
between each
Necklace-silver beads with heart pendant
Cloth Flower Hair Clip–white and black
Girl’s ring, gold blue stone
Girls necklace, fairy pendant
Keys:
2 sets of car keys
Miscellaneous:
Ladies belt – black elastic wide band with
large blue bow
Heart post-it-note pad
Thermos Mug – Black “Tim Hortons”
Page 6
BETHANY MISSIONS
SHORT TERM MISSION TRIP
UPDATE BY
REV. GORDON HENDRICKSON,
OUR STMT CONSULTANT
CALL GORDON, 267-358-9507
Sandy Relief Mission Trips:
August 18-23
We have a team of 10-12
who will be going to Atlantic City.
Our first team of seven came back really moved by
their June experience. In fact, they were greatly
touched by the Holy Spirit with moving stories of
how God provided for their physical needs and
spiritual needs. The woman they did work for was
a lady of faith who knew the team would get her
back into her home. The team was able to fulfill
her desire. God helped them open doors to get
the necessary material to accomplish this task.
If you get a chance, talk to Bud and Elaine Reed,
Debbie Miller or Don and Sue Brensinger about
their trip. Two other individuals from other
churches joined them. One of our goals as a
church has been to provide mission trips for other
churches and individuals who might not have the
numbers to plan a mission trip.
The August trip will be our second of many trips to
help those in need due to hurricane Sandy.
Gordon will be talking with Adam about the youth
doing some trips next summer. Also, as the
opportunities arise with those in charge in NJ, we
will look at day trips and weekend trips, too.
Please pray to see where the Spirit can use you.
Bethany Post
August/September 2013
Page 7
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BETHANY MISSIONS
Saving God's Children Update
Tracy says we need more sponsors for Jamaica and Africa. We are trying to increase the amount we
send to Jamaica but need more sponsors to make this a reality.
Gordon sent $1000 to Kenya for our students there but we will be running in the red for this group.
Pastor Ralph has asked Gordon to go to Costa Rica to check on our children there as well as to do
some teaching of pastors. We will let you know these results after this fall trip.
Kenya Trip: Feb. 6-17, 2014
From: mwita james (mail to: [email protected])
Sent: Tuesday, June 11, 2013, 3:58 AM
To: Ralph Stevenson
Subject: Re: GREETING
Ralph,
This is a blessing to hear from you! I thank God that Gordon is okay and the plans to have the team
visit us on February 7 2014. We have been missing and longing to hear from you. We are preparing
to receive your team. Gordon and the team are a blessing through their mission to Kenya and parts
of Muthara. But I have created a gmail account: [email protected] you can use both.
Thanks for the information about the progress. We are praying for you.
Jamaica Short Term Mission/Retreat Trip: Winter of 2014
Some of the group who went last year are already planning a return this year. This is a five-day trip
which costs around $1200 a person. We stay at a secure hotel complex in Montego Bay and Marcia
Reid from the school comes to pick up the group to take them to the school. We spend two days
at the school. Each day we do a Bible study at the hotel. One day becomes a sight-seeing day or
another day at the School. Please contact Gordon if you are interested.
Short Term Mission Bible Study
Our next meeting will be September 18 at 7:00 PM in the parsonage. We encourage those who are
going on trips or those of you who just want to find out what God is doing both in the Bible and in
our Short Term Missions. Hope to see you there.
MISSION B-MAIL
A Mission B-Mail goes out every Tuesday evening. You are encouraged to read each
weekly update from our missionaries and their prayer requests. The B-Mails also
keep you informed about Short Term Mission opportunities and “hands on” missions
in our communities. If you are not getting Mission B-Mails contact the Church office
and tell them you want to be on the list.
Bethany Post
Page 8
ADAPTIVE LEADERSHIP
BY GORDON HENDRICKSON
When Jim Griffiths met with the Cabinet and
some large church start pastors to talk about
satellite ministry, he talked continually about
forcing churches to focus outwardly. Too often,
we forget we are not appointed to a local
church but to a community in which the local
church building resides.
It is our job to define our community and then
to do ministry to meet their needs. Too often,
we look at the needs of our local church and
forget we exist to serve not ourselves but our
communities. One of the best ways to force
outward focus is to use worship as a vehicle to
reach others not in our local church.
In growing churches, worship is the number one
way to reach others. Yes, there are others such
as Bible study, small groups, missions,
education, music, sports, self-help groups, etc.
but, worship is still the best way to reach others.
It used to be we applied the 80/20 rule to
worship services. When you reach 80% capacity
of seating, you planned a new worship service.
Now we know better. It is time to start a new
service when we realize other people outside of
our local church want something new and
different then what we offer.
Who are these people who live in our
communities and what type of worship would
they want? What time would they want it?
Now becomes the real homework. Maybe use
MissionInSite (demographic service we contract
with which is free to local churches) to see who
these people are and what their preferences are.
Maybe, go out and talk with them to get this
information.
You see the outward focus! It could get
uncomfortable if they like music your church
hates or a different style of preaching or new
technology you don’t know anything about or
on a day and time you think is sacrilegious. Are
you getting uncomfortable? Turn the heat up
and start to have conversations about doing
this!
How can my small or middle size church do
this? We don’t know what to do! We don’t
have the resources! We don’t have money! The
first place to begin is to pray. Without prayer
nothing will be successful. We are limited but
God is limitless! Don’t look at the mountain but
look to God. If we are people of Faith and Spirit
then we must ask God to show the way. It may
take time. We may have failures but we must
try.
I am talking to churches doing worship really
well with many different styles. They said they
would be interested in helping other churches
who really want to try to add another type of
worship service. I am sure there are others who
will read this and want to help, too. As we
begin to strategize to accomplish this vision in
the next several years, I will be looking for
people and churches to help.
Please email me,
[email protected]
or call me, 267-258-9507 if you
would like to be a part of this
mountain moving experience.
August/September 2013
Page 9
DIVORCE CARE
FACILITATORS NEEDED
If you are a married couple and have previously gone through
the pain of divorce, or are currently single and healed from the
pain of divorce or are an adult child of divorced parents,
please consider connecting with the Divorce Care ministry.
We need you in the adult (Divorce Care) ministry, children’s
(DC4K), or teens (The Big D). Only you have walked the path
that our participants are walking, and only you can relate to their
pain. Please consider giving back to someone in need. Divorce
Care is a 13-week program, and training is provided. Please
contact Susan Farkas, 215-805-2554.
Wescosville only
Start: 9/5/13
6:45 PM
215-805-2554
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Bethany Post
Bethany Christian
Preschool
Now Registering for Fall 2013
Programs for 3-5 yrs.old
Contact Robin Hagy at 610-395-3613 x29
Moms Morning Out Program
Christian Based Informal/Instructional Day Program
Summer Program for Children 18 months to 2nd Grade
Fall 2013 Program 18 months to 5 years of Age
Contact Amy Hain for more info 610-395-3613 x40
Both Programs located at 1208 Brookside Road, Wescosville, PA
TWICE BLESSED
The Twice Blessed ministry in downtown Allentown is Twice Blessed!! First, we serve many needs of
the people in the downtown Allentown area with household items, clothing and furniture. Second,
we are blessed to sell these items at a low cost, to fulfill needs and further spread the word of
God's love.
As always we appreciate your donations to this ministry. We are ALWAYS in need of sheets, towels,
bedding and blankets. Also clothing and furniture are greatly appreciated as well.
Please make sure that the items you donate are gently used, clean and in good working condition.
These items should be items that YOU would want to purchase. Thank you!
DEADLINES FOR BULLETIN AND POST
Worship Bulletin deadline is each Tuesday afternoon at 5:00 PM. You may send your
announcements to [email protected] or put them in the secretaries mailbox
outside the church office. All announcements are limited to 25 words.
The Post deadline for October/November is Friday, September 6 at 5:00 PM. You may send your
articles to [email protected] or put them in the secretaries mailbox outside the
church office. All Post articles are limited to 225 words each.
The Post will be available following worship on the last weekend of September.
Contact Donna Long in the church office with any questions 610-395-3613 ext. 27.
August/September 2013
Page 11
WOMEN'S MINISTRY PRAYER AND SUPPORT TEAM
Ladies, do you have a heart for prayer? Would you like to reach out to other
women through prayers and words of encouragement from wherever and
whenever you make the time to pray? The new Women's Ministry Prayer and
Support Team needs women of all ages and stages in life to help provide a
network of prayer and support that all women need and crave in their daily
walks. The goal of the group is to pray for women requesting prayers and to
also provide feedback and support to encourage these women and each
other. For more information, please contact Laura Pankoe,
[email protected] or 484-866-7729.
Upcoming Women’s Ministry Events:
August 10: One Word–Strength from 9:00-11:00 AM in the MPR
August 23: Ladies’ Game Night will host a Luau in the Parsonage from 6:30–9:00 PM
September 14: One Word—Service/Giving.
This month’s event will follow a different format that is still being developed. Stay
tuned for more details! Mark your calendars for all of the events above and watch
the bulletin and the pew sheet for more information and sign-ups. We hope to see
you there!
BETHANY WOMEN’S MENTORING MINISTRY
You don’t have to walk it alone.
A godly woman mentor is ready to join you in your spiritual journey.
To get the most out of a mentoring relationship, you’ll be encouraged to:
Pray daily, attend church, and learn how to take your problems to Jesus.
Commit the necessary time (meet 2 times per month for 6 months).
Set goals for the mentoring relationship and your relationship with God.
Allow your mentor to hold you accountable to the time commitment and goals.
Please contact us if you have questions about mentoring or are interested in having a mentor
provided by the Bethany Women’s Mentoring Ministry:
Bobbi Janson 610-432-7988 [email protected]
Nancy Dinger 610-391-8369 [email protected]
We have one formal meeting scheduled this Fall. It is a Mentee Information Night on Thursday,
September 12, at 7:00 PM in the Conference Room. It is specifically designed to answer any
questions prospective mentees might have and introduce them to the Mentoring program.
Page 12
Bethany Post
KINGDOM BUILDING ON THE MOVE!
The Kingdom Building team seeks your prayers in several areas. We are (at printing
time) preparing for a bid choice for our Design & Build contractor, and also for
financing.
Our prayers also surround people that lend support to building the new Macungie
Multi-Purpose Family Life center! Therefore, please pray for the following:
That our Design and Build contractor selection is grounded in God’s will,
and that the partnership supports all our needs at the Macungie site.
That our banking partner, once selected, will prove to be a beneficial
partner in all that we do as a church, to love obey and proclaim Jesus
Christ.
That our church family will be moved to support and continue supporting
the efforts of growing God’s Kingdom. And that all will see that it is way
more than a building, it is ministry leading people to Jesus Christ forever!
Finally, please pray about how you can add to this important project. If you have a skill set, such as
legal, communications, interior designs, landscaping/grounds, gifting outreach programs (e.g.
memorial gifting, special occasion gifting, etc.), then please pray about joining us.
Any requests for information and volunteering can be directed to: Susan Farkas, 215-805-2554
or [email protected]
Updates are posted to the web and in church services weekly. Please see any KB member with a
purple “ASK ME” button for information. Many thanks from the entire KB committee!
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August/September 2013
Contact Information:
Keri Crawford,
Director of Small Groups
[email protected]
610-395-3613 ext. 33
610-905-1340 (cell)
“And let us consider how we may spur
one another on toward love and good
deeds. Let us not give up meeting
together…but let us encourage one
another, and all the more as you see the
Day approaching.”~ Hebrews 10: 24-25
Small Groups provide an opportunity to deepen your love and commitment to God. Here at Bethany, we
have opportunities for you to connect with others through many different small groups and studies for
adults. These studies teach you to grow in your spiritual journey as well as participate in Christian fellowship
with one another outside of Worship. Currently, there are five different types of Small Groups; Sunday
Morning Classes, Weekday Co-Ed Studies, Weekday Men’s Studies, Weekday Women’s Studies and Small
Groups.
The Sunday Morning Classes provide a weekly opportunity to be combined with a Worship Service to
deepen your commitment to God.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2013 SUNDAY MORNINGS 9:30 AM
RADIO BIBLE CLASS DISCOVERY SERIES
(PARSONAGE FRONT)
For the remainder of the summer, this group will
be studying various individual Bible verses. The
class time consists of free and open discussion
of each verse. Then in September, they will be
resuming studies based upon the RBC’s
Discovery Series and will begin with The
Forgiveness of God. In this booklet, Mart De
Haan helps you discover how God’s forgiveness
can lift the burden of guilt and shame to give
you freedom and peace to move forward in life.
Gain a better understanding of God’s love and
mercy, as you explore the elements of His
forgiveness. There are lots of open discussions
and great conversations during these studies
and anyone is welcome to join at any time.
Leader: Ken Young
PARABLES OF THE OLD AND
NEW TESTAMENT (CHOIR ROOM)
This class studies all the parables found in the
Bible and is designed in such a way that each
week's parable is separate from the previous
week. Therefore, please feel free to join this
class at any time.
Leader: Mike Bunner
THE BIBLE AND CONTEMPORARY ISSUES
(ROOM 202/204)
Join this class as they read books of the Bible to
gain a better understanding of God’s teachings
and how they can incorporate individual, church,
community, national and international concerns
or events into the discussion as the Holy Spirit
leads them. Currently, this class is studying the
book of Proverbs and welcomes anyone who
would like to come at any time.
Leader: Bud Reed
THE BENJAMIN CLASS (ROOM 203)
As a continuation of the class led by Wayne
Benjamin for over 25 years, this class is taking a
close look at the book of Proverbs by covering a
variety of general topics including wisdom,
problems of the heart, family and basic wisdom
for daily living. Most lessons deal exclusively
with what the book of Proverbs itself says about
each topic, with outlines and discussion
questions. This group welcomes those who
previously attended the class led by Wayne, as
well as, any new participants.
Leader: Rich Albertson
CHARLIE GARDNER’S CLASS
(PARSONAGE FIRESIDE) Beginning in
September, Charlie Gardner will be facilitating a
class. Stay tuned to the bulletin and pew sheet
for more details.
Bethany Post
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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2013 SUNDAY MORNINGS AT 11:00 AM
BETHANY BASICS (CHOIR ROOM)
This class is offered the second Sunday of every month as a short informational session for those
who are newer to our church family and want to know more about Bethany church.
Leader: Donna Barnwell
The Weekday Co-Ed Studies provide opportunities to deepen your love and commitment to God
and to grow with other fellow believers in His Word.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2013 CO-ED BIBLE STUDIES
IDENTITY IN CHRIST (PARSONAGE FIRESIDE)
You are invited to join this new small group for
young adults, which meets Mondays at 7:30 PM
Currently, this group is completing Max Lucado’s
4-week study Out Live Your Life, which teaches
you how you can make a difference for Christ.
Suggested ages are Post Hi to 29.
Leaders: Lindsay Buss and Alecia Weaver
ESTABLISHED IN TRUTH – MARKED BY LOVE
(STUDIO)
Join this 12-week, verse-by-verse examination of
1, 2, 3 John and Jude by John MacArthur, which
will urge you to fight for the truth and stand firm.
This study is held on Tuesdays at 7:00 PM and will
conclude on August 27. Anyone is welcome to
join at any time.
Leader: Tony Guerrero
DISCIPLE I BIBLE STUDY
(PARSONAGE FRONT)
This Bible Study is designed for developing strong
Christian leaders through regular in-depth study
of the Scripture. This 34-week study covers both
the Old and New Testaments. It is truly one of the
best ways to deepen your faith and grow closer to
Christ. This class meets on the first and third
Tuesdays of the month at 7:00 PM beginning midAugust. Please see the bulletin for specific class
schedule.
Leaders: Pastor Ralph Stevenson and Jeff Markle
DISCIPLE IV BIBLE STUDY
(PARSONAGE FRONT)
This 32-week study completes the intensive survey
of the Bible begun in Disciple II & III, and is open
to anyone who has completed Disciple I. This
study covers the Old Testament books not in the
Torah or Prophets (Psalms, Proverbs, Song of
Solomon, Ecclesiastes) along with the Gospel of
John and Revelation. This class meets on the
second and fourth Tuesdays at 7:00 PM, beginning
mid-August. Please see the bulletin for the
specific class schedule.
Leader: Pastor Ralph Stevenson
DATE NIGHT SERIES (CHOIR ROOM)
We want you to reclaim that spark in your
marriage through six intentional, memory making
dates on Fridays from 6:00 – 8:00 PM, beginning
July 19 and concluding on August 23. Childcare is
available at the church for $5 per child ($15 max
per family). Each week, couples meet at the
church for the first 25 minutes and then head out
for a date at their own expense. Feel free to join
this group at any time, however, children must be
registered for childcare in advance by calling Keri
in the church office.
Leader: Keri Crawford
SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS OF
TEENAGERS (ROOM 202/204)
Join this support group for parents of teenagers as
they discuss their blessings and challenges of
parenting. They will look into God's Word to find
the answers on how to raise Godly teens into
more spiritually mature adults. This group meets
on the first Friday of every month at 6:30 PM and
will resume from their summer break on
September 6.
Leader: Tanya Sheffer
August/September 2013
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The Weekday Women’s Studies provide opportunities for women to deepen their love and commitment to
God and to grow with other fellow believers in His Word. AUG./SEP. 2013 WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDIES
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP (ROOM TBD)
Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, family member
or friend, we invite you to join this new group to
help heal the pain you may feel by offering
encouragement and reassurance through the
scriptures and prayer. This group will meet on the
second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 7:00
PM beginning in mid-August.
Leader: Herb Gates
PURLS (PARSONAGE FIRESIDE)
Join this group of ladies on the second Monday of
every month at 6:30 PM, as they stitch prayer
shawls, lab robes and baby blankets for those in
need. All stitched items are prayed over before
giving them to a recipient. Shawls and lap robes are
also donated to various nursing homes. ALL
knitters, crochet stitchers or want-to-be stitchers
are welcome to come at any time.
Leader: Denise Morth
LUNCHTIME LADIES (STUDIO)
Beginning September 3, you are invited to join this
group of ladies as they complete Joanna Weaver’s
12-week study of Having a Mary’s Heart in a
Martha’s World, which she shows how all of us–
Marys and Marthas alike–can draw closer to our
Lord by deepening our devotion, strengthening our
service and doing both with less stress and greater
joy. Thereafter, these ladies will continue to meet
on Tuesday from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Leader: Megan Slifka
BOOK CLUB (OFF-SITE)
The Bethany Book Club reads Christian books and
books that apply Christian principles. We use a
suggested reading guide and also explore other
themes of the book in a relaxed atmosphere. This
club meets the first Tuesday of every month from
6:45 to 8:45 PM New participants welcome!
Leader: Linda Davis
EARLY BIRDS (ROOM 202/ 204)
Beginning September 12, you are invited to join this
group of women of all ages, as they complete Max
Lucado’s 12-week study, which focuses on John
3:16, a twenty-six word phrase of hope: beginning
with God, ending in life and urging us to do the
same. Thereafter, these ladies will continue to meet
on Thursday from 7:30 to 8:30 AM. New women
are welcome to come at any time.
Leaders: Jane Miller and Judy Rotkowski
JESUS CALLING (PARSONAGE FIRESIDE)
This summer you are invited to dive deeper into
Sarah Young’s bestselling devotional, Jesus Calling
on Fridays from 10:30 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. This study
began on June 21 and will conclude on August 30.
Each class, participants will discuss the entries from
the previous week and look more closely at the
Scripture used. Ladies are encouraged and welcome
to join at any time.
Leader: Amy Sondova
WOMEN OF THE WORD (OFF-SITE)
This larger, on-going group invites you to join them
on Saturdays from 7:30 to 9:30 AM as they study
John MacArthur’s book, Twelve Extraordinary
Women. This in-depth look at some of the Bible's
most faithful women shows that the God to whom
they were so committed is the same God who
continues to mold and use ordinary people today.
Leader: Barb Hornberger
AFTER THE BOXES ARE UNPACKED
(PARSONAGE)
More than 40 million Americans move each year,
and studies show that it can be one of the heaviest
strains on a marriage. For women especially,
relocating can be a traumatic event. Those who are
moving will find this book as valuable and as
important as packing tape. With true stories,
ingenious insights, and helpful hints, women can
CRAZY LOVE (PARSONAGE FIRESIDE)
transition smoothly and get on with their lives. In
Prepare to be overwhelmed by the crazy love of our mid-September, Bethany will be offering this study.
relentless God as this group embarks on a 10-week Watch the bulletin for more details.
study of Crazy Love by Francis Chan on
Leader: Linda Clark
Wednesdays from 6:45 to 8:45 PM. This class
began on June 12 and will end on August 21.
Leaders: Amy Sondova and Shari Transue
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Bethany Post
The Weekday Men’s Studies provide opportunities for men to deepen their
commitment to God and to grow with other fellow believers in His Word.
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2013 MEN’S BIBLE STUDIES
KITCHEN CREW (CONFERENCE ROOM)
Currently, this group is studying the book of Acts.
They meet every other Tuesday at 6:00 AM and
are always open for new participants to join them
as they read and study God’s Word. This group
also does all of the cooking for the monthly men’s
breakfast held at our Wescosville campus. To find
out their current schedule, please contact the
church office.
Leaders: Jim Byrnes and Todd Lehman
MEN WITH NO REGRETS (STUDIO)
The No Regrets Study Series offers men a dynamic
growth experience that equips them to be strong,
effective Christian leaders at home, on the job, in
the workplace and out in the community. Focus is
on learning and then applying what it means to be
a fully-devoted follower of Jesus. New modules
start every 9 weeks to model, teach and
encourage practical application of biblical
principles that build a solid foundation for living
life for Christ. This group will meet on Tuesdays
from 6:30 to 8:00 AM, beginning September 17 at
which time they will start Module 2: Building Your
Spiritual Muscle. New participants welcome at any
time.
Leader: Don Brensinger
MOUNTAIN MOVERS (CONFERENCE ROOM)
Currently, this group is studying the book of
Ephesians. They meet on Wednesday from
6:30 to 7:30 AM and are always open for new
participants to join them as they read and study
the Word of God.
Leader: Ron Krikorian
WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEN’S GROUP (OFF-SITE)
Join this group as they complete topical studies
with their Bible as their guide. Some topics
include forgiveness, temptation, contentment,
working for God, fathering, etc. This group always
has an open chair and welcomes any man at any
point in his journey to join them on Wednesday at
7:00 PM.
Leader: Greg DiGiacomo
WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEN’S BIBLE STUDY
(ROOM 202/204)
Join this group, beginning September 4, as they
start a study on the Book of Romans by reading
and observing the passages to get a better
understanding of what is being said and how they
can apply it to their lives. This group also takes
time to discuss current events through media and
legislation and how these events align themselves
with prophecy. Feel free to join them on
Wednesdays at 6:30 PM.
Leader: Paul Abbott
MEN WITH NO REGRETS (ROOM 203)
The No Regrets Study Series offers men a dynamic
growth experience that equips them to be strong,
effective Christian leaders at home, on the job, in
the workplace and out in the community. Focus is
on learning and then applying what it means to be
a fully-devoted follower of Jesus. New modules
start every 9 weeks to model, teach and
encourage practical application of biblical
principles that build a solid foundation for living
life for Christ. This group meets on Thursday from
7:00 to 8:30 PM and is completing Module 4:
Bringing God to Work With You, which focuses on
learning how to keep your integrity, finding
balance and serving others on the job. New
participants welcome at any time.
Leader: Tony Guerrero
FRIDAY PROMISE KEEPERS
(FELLOWSHIP HALL)
Looking for a small group of guys to help keep
you accountable? Join this group as they complete
Max Lucado’s 12-week study, which focuses on
John 3:16 a twenty-six word phrase of hope:
beginning with God, ending in life and urging us
to do the same. This group meets on Friday from
6:00 to 7:00 AM and new participants are welcome
to join them at any time.
Leaders: Greg Light and Dave Schreffler
SATURDAY MORNING MEN’S GROUP
(CONFERENCE ROOM)
Every Saturday from mid-July to mid-September,
you are invited to join this group of men from
7:00 to 8:00 AM for fellowship, prayer and
accountability as they watch a video documentary
of the Bible. The video study includes watching
one of the episodes that comprise the History
Channel’s recent 2013 documentary about the
Bible. Discussions about the video will be
followed by prayer and accountability.
Leaders: Todd Farnand and Jim Tobias
August/September 2013
Page 17
Page 17
AUGUST/SEPTMEMBER 2013 MEN’S BIBLE STUDIES
MEN WITH NO REGRETS
(CONFERENCE ROOM)
The No Regrets Study Series offers men a dynamic
growth experience that equips them to be strong,
effective Christian leaders at home, on the job, in
the workplace and out in the community. Focus is
on learning and then applying what it means to be
a fully-devoted follower of Jesus. New modules
start every 9 weeks to model, teach and
encourage practical application of biblical
principles that build a solid foundation for living
life for Christ. This group meets on Saturday at
6:30 AM and resume meeting in mid-September
to begin completing Module 5: Becoming a Man
of Influence New participants welcome at any
time.
Leaders: Todd Farnand and Brian Miller
SATURDAY PROMISE KEEPERS
(ROUTE 309 TRIVET)
What can the call to discipleship, the adherence to
the word of Jesus, mean today to the
businessman, the soldier, the laborer, or the
aristocrat? What did Jesus mean to say to us?
What is His will for us today? Drawing on the
Sermon on the Mount, Dietrich Bonheoffer
answers these timeless questions in his book,
The Cost of Discipleship, which is a compelling
statement of the demands of sacrifice and ethical
consistency from a man whose life and thought
were exemplary articulations of a new type of
leadership inspired by the Gospel, imbued with
the spirit of Christian humanism and a creative
sense of civic duty. Join this group on Saturday
from 7:00 to 8:00 AM at the Trivet Restaurant on
Tilghman Street near Route 309.
Leader: Peter Brown
Interested in facilitating or attending a Small Group Bible Study or Sunday School Class? Contact
Keri at [email protected] or call the church office for more information.
SMALL GROUP SOCIAL HOUR
On Friday, September 13, Bethany’s Small Group Ministry will be hosting a social hour starting at
6:30 PM in Carlson Hall. During this time, we would like to invite all facilitators and participants of
small groups, Bible studies and Adult Sunday School classes to come and socialize with one
another. It’s at this time, that we would also like to encourage individuals interested in joining a
small group, Bible study or Adult Sunday School class to come and learn more about the
opportunities that Bethany’s Small Group Ministry has to offer. Light refreshments and snacks will
be provided. Please contact Keri at the church office or by email at
[email protected] to confirm your attendance.
What is Financial Peace University? FPU is a 9-week life-changing
program that empowers and teaches you how to make the right
money decisions to achieve your financial goals and God’s plan for
your life. Imagine what the people of God could do for the Kingdom
of God if they were debt free.
Bethany will once again be offering FPU this September. Please watch the bulletin for more details.
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Bethany Post
THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2013
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
SUMMARY 2013
Nearly 1,000 members of The Eastern Pennsylvania
Annual Conference met May 16-18, 2013 at the
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks, PA, with the
theme, “Wholeness: Physical, Spiritual, Relational.”
Annual Conference opened with District Celebrations. Each of the six districts presented news of their
churches’ ministries, and the many outstanding ways churches are reaching out with the compassion of
Christ in their communities.
Bishop Peggy Johnson led Opening Devotions, noting the 275th anniversary of Aldersgate Day on May
24, 2013, when John Wesley’s heart was “strangely warmed.” She encouraged listeners to be “fired up
and ready to spread the Good News to the ends of the earth.”
Dr. Mary White, Conference Lay Leader, presented the Laity Report, entitled, “It’s time to take a
stand.” She encouraged listeners, “It’s time to be the church. It’s time to fill the gap. It’s time to put on
our armor, get up out of the pews, and reach out to those that are un-churched in the community.”
The Rev. Jim Todd presented the District Superintendents’ Report, calling for all to be “relentlessly
outwardly focused.” He said, “Those we are called to serve are those outside the walls of our
church. We bear the light of Christ and we need to be an example in our own lives.”
The conference welcomed Gary Harke, executive director of the Pennsylvania Council of Churches.
Steve Drachler announced organizational changes for United Methodist Advocacy in Pennsylvania,
effective July 1, when it will move from being an organization affiliated with the annual conferences to
becoming a ministry under the direct guidance and oversight of Pennsylvania’s three
bishops. Conference Statistician Gordon Yocum presented 2012 statistical information, reporting that
although worship attendance declined over last 5 years on all districts – down 5-10% - the rate of
decline has slowed, and 62 churches report an increase of 10% or more.
The Denman Award for outstanding evangelism efforts went to two persons: Aaron Smith (laity
honoree) of Woxall Tabor UMC, who started a weekly Sunday evening service at Tabor with a youngadult focus; and Rev. Ralph Stevenson of Bethany UMC, who lives out his evangelistic call through
personal interactions, leadership, and ministry, and whose church has grown to be the largest church in
the northeast jurisdiction.
The Kim Jefferson Award for 2013, presented by the Office of Urban Ministry, went to New Vision
United Methodist Church in Philadelphia. Rev. Gregory Holston, pastor, and Ms. Jean Kershaw, lay
leader, accepted the award on behalf of the congregation. New Vision, a merger of Mt. Carmel and
Tioga UMC Churches, reaches out through breakfast ministry, food pantry, a church-established
cleaning company, Thanksgiving Ministry and Christmas Ministry.
Bishop Violet Fisher preached for the Memorial Service on the evening of Thursday, May 16, when the
conference remembered deceased bishops, clergy, spouses, lay members and staff. Bishop Thomas
Bickerton of the Western Pennsylvania Conference spoke on the morning of Friday, May 17. “Scripture
longs to be put into action,” he said of the United Methodist Church’s “Imagine No Malaria” ministry
whose purpose is to eliminate malaria death in Africa by 2015, alone, that people across the world are
committed bringing them health and hope.
Page 1 of 3
August/September 2013
Page 19
The Rev. Dr. Christopher Kurien, Director of Connectional Ministries, led the Celebration of Ministries.
He noted the Evangelism training and the recent missions celebration. Dr. Kurien introduced new and
returning program coordinators, and each one spoke of their area of conference ministry: new church
development, as well as young people’s, urban, Latino, communications and camping ministry. Camp
directors shared news from the four conference camps and an inspiring video to promote the upcoming
summer camping season.
In a Service of Recognition, the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference honored seventeen retiring clergy,
representing 535 years of ministry: Homer U. Ashby, Jr., William Theodore Bach, Kenneth L. Beale, Jr.,
David W. Brown, James T. Ford, Daniel L. Hall, Joseph W. Hodges III, Larry D. Leister, Thomas McGill, Gary
L. Meekins, Brian J. Reading, Nancy J. Shane, Robert E. Sheesley, Jr., Janet Sue Steger, Dorothy Watson
Tatem, George Ayer Tigh, and Ronald A. Waite.
During the symbolic passing of the mantle, the retirees placed a handmade prayer shawl over the
shoulders of each ordinand, and anointed and prayed with them on the evening of Friday, May 17. The
Service of Ordination included the preaching of Bishop Peggy Johnson and service.
One person was commissioned toward Deacons orders: Erin Antrim Maurer.
Eight persons were commissioned toward Elders orders: Helen I. Adams, Tawny Leigh Bernhardt, Andrea
S. Brown, Sarah Jane Fernsler, Karyn Gerber Fisher, Jennifer Sara Sauerbrun, Jared Earl Stine, James H.
Wilkin.
One person was ordained Deacon: Tiffany Lynn Bidwell.
Three persons were ordained Elders: Ethel Fullen Guy, Daniel E. Lebo, Eric Steven Yeakel.
Bishop Peggy Johnson noted the absence of the Rev. Joyce Mounds Anderson, who was to have been
ordained this year, but who passed away on June 20, 2012.
On the morning of Saturday, May 18, Rev. Dr. Kirk B. Jones gave an inspiring message on “Self-Care
Strategies” as part of the conference Wholeness.
Delegates packaged 19,848 dehydrated, high protein, and highly nutritious meals to be distributed to
schools and orphanages in Haiti by Stop Hunger Now.
Annual Conference communications included live video streaming, posts on the conference website,
Facebook, and Twitter. American Sign Language, assistive listening devices, and on-screen transcription
of the spoken word were offered for Deaf and hard-of-hearing persons. A big-screen reader made
written materials available to persons with visual disabilities. Prior to the opening of the conference, the
Eastern Pennsylvania Renewal Fellowship led a prayer walk around the conference rooms. The Order of
St. Luke held morning communion in the Prayer Room.
Offerings received during Annual Conference will go to these important ministries:
Project Tariro: $3,235.52
Scholarships: $3,939.81
Imagine No Malaria (collected by a pesky mosquito): $1,242.22
Imagine No Malaria - Offering: $ 9,037.28
Camping Envelopes: $2,690.00
Business
Conference members voted on four Constitutional Amendments, instructed to vote either yes or no.
The results will be combined with voting from all the other conferences of the denomination. Results
will be announced later in the year. Eighteen resolutions were debated and action taken. The
Nominations Committee report was accepted, with additions to the Urban Ministry Team and some
edits to the list.
Page 2 of 3
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Bethany Post
The conference is thankful for the many talented musicians and vocalists who led music for the praise
times and worship services throughout annual conference.
Budget
The 2014 Budget was approved (as related to six districts.) The 2014 budget includes $2,899,339 for
conference ministry, and $2,395,272 for General Conference ministry, totaling $5,294,611.
2012 Membership/Attendance
Membership stands at 113,192, down 2606 from 2011.
Sunday School attendance stands at 13,592, down 841 from 2011.
(Please note: Laity Session and Clergy Sessions were held previously on Saturday, May 4.)
Thank you to volunteer reporters: Suzette James, Myra Maxwell, Mark Moore, Bob Shank, and Denise Harris;
and to volunteer photographers: Jim Mundell, Sabrina Daluisio, and Paul C. Davis.
*Report by Suzy Keenan, coordinator of Communications for
The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference of The United Methodist Church.
For further information: [email protected].
Abridged by Pastor Ralph for the Bethany Post.
Page 3 of 3
Celebrate Recovery®
A Christ – Centered Recovery Program
Bethany Catasauqua Campus
Every Thursday 7:00 PM
“Revealing is the
Beginning of Healing”
Nothing is too hard for
GOD
No hurt is beyond Healing
No habit is beyond Help
No hang-up is beyond Hope
Freedom is Possible
Finding Peace and Lasting Freedom through Jesus Christ
If You Have Any Questions, Please Contact Pastor Mike Byrd or Don & Cindy at 484.619.3647
BETHANY BEACH DELAWARE VACATION HOUSE
3 bedroom, 2 baths, central air conditioning, pool, tennis, non-smoking, no
pets, close to beach, nice community, summer weekly rentals, partial offseason rentals. Call Nancy or Ken Weiland, 610-298-3378, or email,
[email protected]
August/September 2013
Weddings
Cristin Weeks & David Bowler
May 25, 2013
Doris Wetherill & Jess Coleman
June 15, 2013
Shelby Garner & Gabe McNabb
June 15, 2013
Maxine Johnson & Brian Blanck
June 15, 2013
Arrivals
KATELYN PAIGE DIMOVITZ
Daughter of Gary & Krista
64 Susquehanna Drive
Jim Thorpe, PA 18229
Born, Thursday, May 16, 2013
7 lb. 19.5”
EMMA LISA SMITH
Daughter of Joshua & Greta (Markle)
46 Wake Robin Terrace
W. Henrietta, NY 14586
Born, Tuesday, June 4, 2013
7 lb. 10 oz. 20”
CADEN THOMAS MURRAY
Son of Tom & Tammy
22 Cottonwood Street
Allentown, PA 18104
Born, Monday, June 17, 2013
7 lb. 12 oz. 20.5”
Page 21
Marriage Enrichment Workshop
The next workshop will be November 1 –3. Contact
Charlie Gardner at [email protected] for more
information or to register.
We attended as a pre-engaged couple with the desire to
develop a loving, caring family for us and our children.
This program provided direction on how to really focus
on each other and how to develop a better loving
relationship.
We would highly recommend all couples who desire a
greater loving relationship consider investing in your
marriage through this workshop. You, your spouse and
your children will be blessed for it!
Wayne Doyle
Wayne Benjamin
A Member to Remember
Wayne and Fleda
Benjamin have moved
to an assisted living
facility in Levittown to
be near their son.
We will miss their
faithful attendance in
the back of the
sanctuary at the eight
o’clock service and his
Sunday School class.
Wayne has taken his direction from his Lord for his entire
life. He applied his many gifts as the Lord led him in an
amazing Christian life with its ups and downs including
nightclub performer, radio personality and much more.
To learn more about Wayne go to:
bethanyumchurch.com/wb. Perhaps his story will
encourage you to move closer to the Lord to better use
your gifts as you are led by the Carpenter.
Page 22
CHURCH PICNIC
“Macungie Memorial Park”
Saturday, August 10
10:30 A.M. until 3:00 PM
Bring a side dish or dessert
to share with 5 others
Lunch from
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Bethany Post
MEN’S MINISTRY ANNOUNCES
FUN EVENTS BEING SPONSORED
FOR AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER
OTHER EVENTS
“FOOTBALL
TAILGATE PARTY”
Saturday
“FISHING DERBY”
September 14
Saturday, August 17
Bethany
Furnace Dam Park
11:00 AM to
Emmaus
2:30 PM
Continental Style Breakfast
Additional information will be
begins at 8:00 AM
posted for the events.
Derby runs from
9:00 to 11:00 AM
August/September 2013
Page 23
Vacation
Bible School
It was a great VBS.
We had over 400 children in
attendance between the morning
and evening sessions.
There were approximately
67 children that accepted
Christ for the first time.
Page 24
Bethany Post
Senior Citizens Birthdays
August
Mary Vail (8/3) 8061 Cross Creek Cir., Breinigsville, PA 18031
John Stephens (8/5) 6530 Letterkenny Ln., Macungie, PA 18062
Carol O’Donnell (8/10) H22 Walnut Port Mobile Ct. #2, Brian Dr., Walnutport, PA 18088
Ellile Kullmann (8/11) 2189 Four Seasons Blvd., Macungie, PA 18062
Grey Berrier (8/14) 315 Cressman Dr., Allentown, PA 18104
Lois Heiser (8/16) 7772 Cross Creek Cir., Breinigsville, PA 18031
Jim Miller (8/24) 5575 Stonecroft Ln., Allentown, PA 18106
Mary Payne (8/25) 2022 Sheaffer Rd., Elizabethtown, PA 17022
Don Ludwig (8/27) 1452 Dove Ter., Wescosville, PA 18106
June Hassell (8/28) 353 West 2nd St., Alburtis, PA 18011
September
Myra Woroniak (9/1) Saucon Valley Manor, 1050 Main St., Rm. 24, Hellertown, PA 18055
Liz Phillips (9/2) 4029 Westview Dr., Allentown, PA 18104
Arthur Schlicher (9/9) 6836 Mill Creek Rd., Slatington, PA 18080
Bernie Braun (9/18) 6750 Pioneer Dr., Macungie, PA 18062
Jenny Kerschner (9/24) 5493 Rodgers Rd., Center Valley, PA 18034
Jack Knauss (9/26) 1012 Valley Rd., Mertztown, PA 19539
Larry Leitenberger (9/27) 4265 David Dr., Emmaus, PA 18049
Rich Hockman (9/29) 4902 Spruce St., Wescosville, PA 18106