Feb/Mar 2014 - Bethany Church

February/March
BETHANY POST
2014
“To Love, Obey, and
Proclaim Jesus Christ”
UNITED METHODIST
CHURCH
Inside This Issue
Dear Bethany Family,
This is one of those newsletter articles that I have strayed away from for
years because it is a topic that makes me uncomfortable. Let me talk
about Jesus and God’s breathed word and I am ready to go. If you want
to talk sports, I can bend your ear, but I really don’t like to talk about
money. Well that is not exactly accurate. If you would want me to talk
about my money and how Gloria and I have been blessed by God by
giving to Him, I would be more then glad to bend your ear. However, I
really do not like talking about your money. It is a stretch for me but
an area that I feel God wants to stretch me.
During the month of January God has laid on my heart to do a series
called Big Faith. At the end of the series all of us on the first weekend in
February will have an opportunity to sign a ministry pledge card. (This is
not to be confused with our giving to Kingdom Building.) In order to
grow ministry at Bethany Church our weekly financial needs are around
$40,000.00. When we reach our goal of $40,000.00 per week, we will be
able to continue to be a strong mission giving church, a fellowship that
is committed to excellent programs that will enable our children and
youth to make a firm commitment to Jesus Christ as well as ministry that
will reach our young adults and adults for Jesus Christ. One of the
Biblical lessons that God has laid on my heart is the truth that we
sometimes don’t have because we do not ask.
As members of our church family, I am asking you to join me in prayer
that each of us might hear from God, the amount He would ask us to
give to His Church at Bethany. I want to thank all of you for your faithful
giving over the past 28 years of my pastorate at Bethany and I want to
thank you for your continued faithfulness in 2014 as God allows us to do
greater things for Him. As we pray about our giving, let us remember
God’s definition of big faith found in Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is being
sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. May God
richly bless each of you.
Staff Directory
2
God and Golf
Staff Retirements
Bethany Beach House
3
Impact 2014
H.S. Conference
Registration Form
4
5
Divorce Care
Teens-The Big “D”
6
Births, Weddings, New
Members & Deaths
Marriage Testimonial
7
Lost & Found,
Bethany Outreach
Deadlines
8
Wonder Woman
Valentine’s Day
9
Celebrate Recovery
Presidents Day
Daylight Savings Time
10
Small Groups
11
15
Kid’s game day
Youth Spaghetti Dinner
16
OCC
Fireproof Movie
17
Thank You Notes
Bethany Events
18
19
Senior Citizens’
Birthdays
20
Jim
MARCH 5, 2014
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
Jeffrey Markle – Member at Large
John Oetting – Member at Large
Patty Dudley – Trustees Chairperson
Tim Woodbridge – PPR Chairperson
Donna LongPage
– Secretary
2
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)
Jeffrey Markle
Dan Heinmets
Pastor - Parish Relations
Trustees
Class of 2014
Paul Abbott, LL
Tim Woodbridge, Chairperson
Ellie Reichenbach
Class of 2014
Patty Dudley, Chairperson
Class of 2015
Gary Mitton
Greg DiGiacomo
Russ Siminski
Jill Lichtenwalner
Class of 2015
Gene Davis
Barb Hornberger
Sue Redfield
Class of 2016
Jeff Flamisch
Finance Committee
Dan Heinmets—Chairperson
Mark Sinkovits
Mike Snyder
Bruce Meyer
Lisa Horwath
Don Patt
Chris Holmes
Lay Leadership (Nominations)
Class of 2014
Class of 2015
Julie DiGiacomo
Joe Riley
Don Brensinger
Class of 2016
Jeff Markle
Christiana Buniak
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
[email protected]
Mike Byrd, Ext. 16
Assoc. Pastor, Catasauqua
[email protected]
Scotty Coyle, Ext. 30
Outreach Director
[email protected]
Keri Crawford, Ext. 33
Director of Small Groups
[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]
[email protected]
Ken Hoover, Ext. 21
Director of Music & Worship
[email protected]
Adam Kern, Ext. 15
Director of Youth Ministry
[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]
Amy Hain, Ext. 40
Director of MMO
[email protected]
Music Ministry Staff
Amanda Furbeck, Pianist
Kathleen Anthony, Organist
February/March 2014
Page 3
God and Golf
As I write this newsletter article the weather forecast for Tuesday is calling for a high of 5 degrees.
I am sure your golf clubs are packed up for the winter, but you know time flies and soon it will be
time to play golf. I am looking for 11 other guys to join me from Thursday March 20th to Sunday
March 24th in Williamsburg, VA for time to spend playing golf at Williamsburg National and to
spend time with God.
We will leave on Thursday afternoon and arrive in Williamsburg Powhattan Plantation at 10:00 p.m.
On Friday we will play two rounds of golf and then spend some quality time in God’s word on
topics related to men. On Saturday we will play two rounds of golf and once again spend time
looking at God’s topics related to men. On Sunday we will worship at 8:00 a.m., play one round of
golf and head home.
The cost ranges from $50.00 per night (fold out couch), $75.00 per night (single bed with two in a
room), to $100.00 per night (private room). Each person would pay for their rounds of golf and we
would all share in the expense of the food which can be prepared in the condos. Because
Powhattan Plantation fills up quickly, I will need to make the reservations by the first week in
February. Please call the church office if you would like to make a reservation. I believe God can
really bless our time together as men as we have some time for golf and God.
God Bless You,
Jim Brashear
Staff R etirem ents
The staff would like to thank Pastor Ralph and Donna DiSciacca for their
dedication over the years. It is good to know that Pastor Ralph will still be
with us 15 hours a week and we will see Donna volunteering in many areas.
Congratulations and have a relaxing tim e!!
BETHANY BEACH DELAWARE
VACATION HOUSE
3 bedrooms, 2 baths, central air conditioning, pool,
tennis, non-smoking, no pets, close to beach, nice
community. Summer weekly rentals, partial
off-season rentals. Call Nancy or Ken Weiland,
610-298-3378 or email, [email protected].
Page 4
Bethany Post
February/March 2014
Page 5
Bethany Post
Page 6
CATASAUQUA
CAMPUS
D ivorce Care
Facilitators N eeded
Begins
Wednesday,
February 12
7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
WESCOSVILLE
CAMPUS
Begins
Thursday,
February 6
6:45 p.m.
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: 2/6/14
6:45 PM
215-805-2554
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February/March 2014
M arriage E nrichm ent
Testim onial
We were encouraged to attend the Marriage
Enrichment workshop back in November.
Admittedly, we were attending initially because it
was a requirement, but truly benefitted from
everything the workshop had to offer.
We had only been engaged for 3 months and had
8 months until our wedding so we were (and still
are) on cloud nine and eagerly anticipating
moving onto the next phase of our lives together,
without the full stress of wedding planning
sinking in quite yet.
Communication is key to any relationship and the
workshop gave us the tools to share both the
good news and the challenges with each other.
During the workshop, we were able to connect
with other young couples, including my brother
and future sister-in-law, and it was neat to see
how each relationship was different but
encouraged by the format of openness and
caring.
We highly recommend the workshop for any
couple-whether newly engaged or married for 50
years. It is a great way to spend quality time
together rediscovering things you may have never
known about your partner, appreciating each
other, and setting a plan to keep your relationship
strong through trying times.
Kara Geiger & Erik Lett
D eparted
A rrivals
KINSLEE KAE BYRD
Daughter of Chris & Melissa
355 B, West Broad St.
Souderton, PA 18964
Born, Wednesday, January 1, 2014
7 lb. 6 oz.
Madelon Lindner
Eric Vogel
LUKE ANTHONY RADER
Son of Jen
5624 N. Walnut Street, Apt. 1
Macungie, PA 18062
Born, Sunday, December 22, 2013
7 lb. 15 oz. 20.5”
N ew M em bers
Catasauqua
Wescosville
Janelle Bristol
Annmarie Cornell
Michael Bristol
Patricia Farley
Daniel Pense
Sharon Humphrey
Joan Pense
Trevor Mease
Jody Selverian
Valeria Mease
Carlene Morrow
W eddings
John Morrow
Christine Nace
Rodney Nace
Valeria Veliz & Trevor Mease
December 21, 2013
John Schadler
Leslie Schadler
Jacqueline Heffner & Devin Matzinger
December 28, 2013
Carol Shuey
Jennifer Smith
Marleah Bridges & Wayne Doyle
January 24, 2014
Alice Wallace
Bethany Post
Page 8
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 March 2014. Questions? Call Liz Phillips, 610-395-5785
Glasses:
3 pair black rim sunglasses
1 pair child’s prescription–black frame
sight LRI China inside frame
Jewelry:
Pierced earring:
1 silver heart
1 gold leaf
1 gold hoop
1 pearl/gold clip
1 gold bead with hanging clear triangular stone
Keys:
Black compustar remote car door opener
Iloo care keys and “Do It Best” house key with
compass on purple key holder–Toys R Us and
Rite Aid reward tags
Axxess key with silver apple pendant with
Toys R Us reward tag
Ladies black gloves, vinyl palm
These items located in right rear of coat closet
opposite welcome desk: Men’s or youth med.
black knit pullover sweater “urban pipeline” label
Men’s tan “felt type” hat
14 assorted fall and winter jackets
Books:
Hardcover “NIV Adventure Bible” for kids 9 – 12
Soft cover navy NIV Bible
Miscellaneous:
2 black folding umbrellas
Beverage Mugs:
Musikfest 2012
Thermo Café
Hamilton Beach
Wawa
S.A.F.E
Cambridge (red)
Fiesta
Knoll
Snowman
Clothing:
Bethany Outreach is putting together a team, and we need you!
Are you knowledgeable or gifted in
Journalism, Photography,
Social Media, or Web Design?
Are you more social and want to be
in the community reaching those
outside of our congregation?
Please contact Scotty Coyle, 931-338-5519 or [email protected].
Deadlines for Bulletin and Post
Worship Bulletin deadline is each Tuesday afternoon at 5:00 p.m. 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 April/May is Friday, March 7, 2014, 5:00 p.m. 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 distributed following worship on March 29/30, 2014
Contact Donna Long in the church office with any questions 610-395-3613 ext. 27.
February/March 2014
Page 9
WONDER WOMEN
Ladies, please join us as we unmask a different Wonder Woman of the Bible each month throughout
the year! Saturday, February 8th from 9:00 -11:00 a.m. in Carlson Hall, we will get to know Esther
with speaker Laura Pankoe. On March 15th, same time and place, we will take a look at
another of God's Wonder Women, whose identity has not yet been revealed! Please check our
website or the bulletin for more information and remember to sign up on the pew sheet or online.
Fellowship Night
We invite you to spend an evening with other ladies having fun, enjoying snacks, and getting to know each
other! Upcoming events are as follows:
Friday, February 28th from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in the Parsonage, we will learn to make ruffle scarves.
Cost of $15 includes materials and instruction.
Friday, March 28th from 7:00-9:00 p.m., we'll hit the lanes for bowling night!
For more information about any of our upcoming events, please check our website:
www.bethanyumchurch.com/women or like us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/
bethanywomensministry.
You can also reach us via email, [email protected]. Always feel free to bring a friend or
two or three! We hope you'll join us!
The Women's Mentoring Ministry has been quietly working behind the scenes helping other women on
a one-on-one basis to walk their faith a little closer to God and His will for their lives. If you are looking
to be a mentor or to be mentored, you can look on the Bethany website for further details.
1 Corinthians 13
H appy
V alentine’s
D ay
Friday
February
14, 2014
Bethany Post
Page 10
Do You or a Loved One
Struggle With?
Catasauqua Campus
Worship Service Thursday
Evenings at 7:00 p.m.
(Free Dinner at 6:00 p.m.)
>> Bring a FRIEND <<
Abuse
Alcohol
Anger
Anxiety
Drugs
Depression
Fear
Porn
Stress
Despair
Gambling
Pride
Violence
Food
Hatred
No hang-up is beyond Hope
Freedom is Possible
No hurt is beyond Healing
No habit is beyond Help
If you have any questions, please contact Pastor Mike Byrd or Don at 484.619.3647
March 9th, 2014
February/March 2014
Contact Information:
Keri Crawford,
Director of Small Groups
[email protected]
610-395-3613 ext. 33
610-905-1340 (cell)
Page 11
“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
OUTLOVE * OUTGIVE * OUTSERVE
Bethany’s Small Group Ministry gives you the opportunity to participate in its own version of becoming a
disciple (survivor) of Christ on an amazing journey (race). We want you to join us in our training as we learn
to outlove, outgive and outserve all for God’s honor and glory. 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.
RADIO BIBLE CLASS DISCOVERY SERIES
(PARSONAGE FRONT)
Join this class as they complete a variety of studies
from the RBC’s Discovery Series. In the booklet, The
Forgiveness of God, you will 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.
In Resolving Alleged Contradictions in the Bible,
you will get a better understanding of the seeming
inconsistencies, which will help you see things in
their proper time and place. In this booklet, you’ll
find illustrations of contrasting ideas of Scripture to
help you gain a broader perspective on two sides of
the same truth and also discover the overall unity,
consistency, and reliability of the Bible.
In the booklet, What About Those Who Have
Never Heard?, Mart De Haan shares insight from
God’s Word to help you gain a better understanding
of how God reveals Himself to the world. Discover
how you can make a difference in the lives of those
within your reach when you allow God to work
through you. There is lots of open discussion and
great conversations during these studies and any
one is welcome to join at any time.
Leader: Ken Young
BOOK OF HEBREWS (CHOIR ROOM)
Join this class as they study the Book of Hebrews to
gain a better understanding of God’s Word and how
to apply it in their everyday lives. This class is
designed in such a way that folks are welcome to
join them 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
Page 12
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014
SUNDAY MORNINGS 9:30 a.m. continues
Bethany Post
NEW MEMBER CLASS (CHOIR ROOM)
Bethany’s new member class meets for 6 weeks and
participants are asked to attend each session.
THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES
During this class, participants are given information
(PARSONAGE BASEMENT)
about the history of Bethany and an explanation of
Join this class as they complete the study on The Five
the membership vows. Additionally, every week
Love Languages, by Gary Chapman, which helps
different members of the Pastoral Staff meet with the
couples of all ages to build a healthy, lasting
class to discuss their specific areas of ministry and
relationship. All couples, dating, engaged or married
ways in which you can connect and serve at Bethany.
are invited to attend. This class welcomes those who
At the conclusion of the class, those participants that
would like to join at anytime. Leaders: Charlie &
are ready to join the church will be asked to take their
Alenda Gardner and Tom & Marci Alderfer
membership vows on a specified Sunday during their
CHECK IN AND CHECK US OUT
normal time of worship. This class will be offered
(PARSONAGE BASEMENT)
beginning January 26th. Leaders: Pastoral Staff
Do you have kids who attend Sunday School, Kids
The WEEKDAY CO-ED STUDIES provide
Church or Fusion? Are you an adult who is looking to
opportunities to deepen your love and
learn more about the Bible? Are you a parent who
commitment to God and to grow
wants to learn how to share the Word of God with
with other fellow believers in His Word.
your children? If you’ve answered yes to any of these
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014
questions, than this is a class for you. Beginning in
CO-ED BIBLE STUDIES
mid-January, we invite you to join other adults at
Bethany as they study the stories of the Bible that
CULTURE SHOCK (PARSONAGE FIRESIDE)
coincide with the lessons being taught to our children.
If there was ever a time for Christians to understand
You’ll also be encouraged in a variety of ways to share
and communicate God’s truth about controversial and
the Bible with your kids to bring them into a closer
polarizing issues, it is now. More than ever before,
relationship with Jesus. Watch the bulletin for more
believers must develop convictions based on research,
details regarding a specific start date.
reason and Biblical truth. But it doesn’t stop there. It’s
Leader: Amanda Witmer
equally important that we’re able (and willing) to
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014
communicate these convictions with a love and
SUNDAY MORNINGS 11:00 a.m.
respect that reflects God’s own heart. Join this 12week study by Chip Ingram, which teaches us how to
BETHANY BASICS (CHOIR ROOM)
respond with love, even in the face of controversy. In
This class is offered the second Sunday of every
the process, we’ll discover the power of bringing light,
month as a short informational session for those who
not heat, to the core issues at the heart of our society.
are newer to our church family and want to know
This group meets on Mondays from 7:00-8:00 p.m.,
more about Bethany church.
beginning January 27, and is open to anyone who
Leader: Donna Barnwell
would like to join them. Leader: Megan Slifka
DISCIPLE I BIBLE STUDY (PARSONAGE FRONT)
SAME LAKE, DIFFERENT BOAT (STUDIO)
This Bible Study is designed for developing strong
God has blessed Bethany by giving us the opportunity
Christian leaders through regular in-depth study of
to minister to many individuals and families who are
the Scripture. This 34-week study covers both the Old
affected by a variety of disabilities. If you would like
and New Testaments. It is truly one of the best ways
to join this vital ministry, we invite you to participate
to deepen your faith and grow closer to Christ. This
in this study by Stephanie Hubach, which focuses on
class will meet weekly in January/February, April/May
coming alongside people who are touched
and July/August. This year long cycle completes the
by disability. This study is offered on the second
entire course of Disciple 1. You may start the
Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. and is open to
course at any of the four quarters, as the entire course
anyone at any time.
will be repeated through the rest of the 2014-2015.
Leader: John Oetting and the
If you wish to begin the second half of the Old
Hand In Hand Ministry Team
Testament, contact Pastor Ralph.
Leaders: Pastor Ralph Stevenson and Jeff Markle
February/March 2014
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 2nd and 4th
Tuesdays of each month at 7:00 p.m.
PLEASE NOTE: This class is not meeting in
February but will resume in March.
Leaders: Pastor Ralph Stevenson
CANCER SUPPORT GROUP
(PARSONAGE FIRESIDE)
Bethany offers a cancer support group for anyone
who has been affected by this disease. Whether
you’re a survivor, patient, caregiver, family member
or friend, we invite you to join this group to help
heal the pain you may feel. This class meets on the
2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month at 7:00 p.m.
and welcomes anyone who would like to join them
at anytime. PLEASE NOTE: This group is not
meeting in Feburary but will resume in March.
Leader: Herb Gates
GOSPEL OF JOHN (CATASAUQUA CAMPUS)
Join this group of men and women on Wednesdays
at 7:00 p.m. as they do a verse by verse study of the
Book of John to gain a better understanding of
God’s Word and how to apply it to their everyday
lives. New participants are welcome to come at
anytime. Leader: Pastor Mike Byrd
LEHIGH VALLEY CHRISTIAN WRITER'S
FELLOWSHIP (PARSONAGE FIRESIDE)
Have you always wanted to write a novel? Maybe a
memoir or a book or poetry? Whatever your writing
specialty, we want to invite you to join the Lehigh
Valley Christian Writer's Fellowship on the third
Thursday of each month from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m..
We have a devotional time, a writing clinic, and kind
critique of each other's prepared works. The focus
of the group is to help iron sharpen iron as we use
our writing (and speaking) for the glory of God. This
group is open to men and women from all churches
in the Lehigh Valley. Leader: Amy Sondova
Page 13
SPIRITUAL GIFTS (ROOMS 219-221)
A new study on spiritual gifts will begin on
Thursday, January 30 and will cover biblical
references to spiritual gifts, an assessment of
spiritual gifts, and how our spiritual gifts fit together
with how God created us to lead us to an area of
ministry (service) for Him. The class will meet on
Thursday evenings from 7:00-8:30 p.m. on 1/30, 2/6,
2/20, 2/27 and 3/6 (no class on 2/13). Call Donna in
the church office if you plan to attend.
Leader: Donna Barnwell
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.
FEBRUARY 2014 / MARCH 2014
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDIES
PURLS (PARSONAGE FIRESIDE)
Join this group of ladies on the second Monday of
every month at 6:30 p.m., 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 (YOUTH ROOM)
If there was ever a time for Christians to understand
and communicate God’s truth about controversial
and polarizing issues, it is now. More than ever
before, believers must develop convictions based on
research, reason and Biblical truth. But it doesn’t
stop there. It’s equally important that we’re able
(and willing) to communicate these convictions with
a love and respect that reflects God’s own heart.
Join this group of ladies as they complete Chip
Ingram’s 12-week study Culture Shock, which teaches
us how to respond with love, even in the face of
controversy. In the process, we’ll discover the power
of bringing light, not heat, to the core issues at the
heart of our society. This group meets on Tuesdays
from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., beginning January 28
and is open to any lady who would like to join them.
Leader: Megan Slifka
Bethany Post
Page 14
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.
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014 WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDIES continues
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 - 8:45 p.m.. New participants welcome!
Leader: Linda Davis
BELOVED (PARSONAGE FIRESIDE)
You’re invited to join other ladies as they discover
what it means to experience true freedom in Christ
with Beth Moore’s, Breaking Free study. This group
will meet weekly on Wednesdays from 6:30 - 8:30
p.m. beginning January 15th and running through
June 11th and will spend two weeks on each
powerful, life-changing session. The cost of the
workbook is $20. Feel free to join them. Leaders:
Nancy Dinger and Amy Sondova
EARLY BIRDS (ROOM 202/204)
THE WOMEN OF CHRISTMAS STUDY
Join this group of ladies of all ages as they complete
Liz Curtis Higg’s study on The Women of
Christmas, which takes a closer look at three women
whose hearts belong to God. Elizabeth is barren, yet
her trust in God remains fertile. Mary is betrothed to
be married, yet she is willing to bear God’s Son.
Anna is a widow full of years, yet she waits patiently,
prayerfully for the Messiah to appear in the temple
courts. Following in their footsteps, you too can
prepare for the Savior to enter your heart, your mind
and your life in a vibrant, new way. This group meets
on Thursdays from 7:30-8:30 a.m. and always has an
open chair for anyone who wants to join them.
Leaders: Jane Miller and Judy Rotkowski
STUCK (PARSONAGE FIRESIDE)
Stuck is an 8-week journey for women to take an
honest look at the fight going on inside, leading us
to the God who has a plan to restore it, to restore us.
The lessons in this study are simple and interactive,
offering projects, stories and Bible study to dig into
Scripture, to deeply engage the mind and heart.
Because as we realize that our stuck places are the
very places that make us ache for God, we find Him
waiting there for us with hope and freedom. This
group meets on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. and
welcomes any lady who would like to join them.
Leader: Shari Transue
WOMEN OF THE WORD (OFF-SITE)
This larger, on-going group invites you to join them
on Saturdays from 7:30 - 9:30 a.m. as they
experience the classic work of Charles Swindoll, The
Grace Awakening, which urges you not to miss out
on living a grace-filled life. Freedom and joy, not
demands and duties, await all who believe in our
Lord Jesus Christ. For a growing number of people
who feel that there should be something more to
their walk with God than the sometimes grim face of
religion, The Grace Awakening, offers a glorious
alternative: the truth that sets us free.
Leader: Barb Hornberger
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.
FEBRUARY/MARCH 2014
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 a.m. 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
meets on Tuesdays from 6:30- 8:00 a.m., and is
completing Module 2: Building Your Spiritual
Muscle. New participants welcome at any time.
Leader: Don Brensinger
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February/March 2014
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.
FEBRUARY/MARCH MEN’S BIBLE STUDIES continues
MOUNTAIN MOVERS (CONFERENCE ROOM)
Currently, this group is studying the Book of
Ephesians. They meet on Wednesdays from 6:30 7:30 a.m. 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 is currently studying
the topic of self-control and always has an open
chair and welcomes any man at any point in his
journey to join them on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.
Leader: Greg DiGiacomo
WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEN’S BIBLE STUDY
(ROOM 202/204)
Join this group as they study 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 p.m. 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 Thursdays from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. and is
completing Module 5: Becoming a Man of
Influence, which focuses on identifying your spiritual
gifts and creating change as a servant leader. 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
Francis Chan’s 24-week study, Multiply: Disciples
Making Disciples, which is designed to make
disciples who make disciples until the whole world
know the truth and saving grace of Jesus Christ. This
group meets on Fridays from 6:00 - 7:00 a.m. and
new participants are welcome to join them at any
time. Leaders: Greg Light and Dave Schreffler
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 Thursday from 7:00 - 8:30 a.m. and is
completing Module 6: Building a Home, not Just a
House, which explores practical tools for growing
your marriage and parenting your children. New
participants welcome at any time.
Leaders: Todd Farnand
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
Saturdays from 7:00 - 8:00 a.m. at the Trivet
Restaurant on Tilghman St. near Rt. 309.
Leader: Peter Brown
Bethany Post
Page 16
MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT WORKSHOP
Want to have a great weekend with your spouse? Could your marriage
benefit from some quality time together? Could your communication
be improved? Do you simply want to “reconnect”? Many Christian
couples have reaped great rewards by attending a Marriage Enrichment
Workshop.
Youth Spaghetti Dinner
February 22nd, 6:30 p.m.
$10 per person or $30 per
family
Support the youth conducting
missions to Belize and enjoy
great food and great fellowship
at the same time!
RSVP online to ensure enough
food for all at:
www.bethanyumchurch.com
or
[email protected]
Pay upon arrival
The next workshop is scheduled for March 21-23, 2014, at Bethany
U.M.C, Allentown, PA. Marriage Enrichment is an affiliated program of
the United Methodist Church, and is designed to make good marriages
better. The program goes from 6:30 - 11:00 p.m. on Friday and 8:00
a.m. - 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, and 8:00 to noon on Sunday.
Marriage Enrichment is not a counseling program, nor intended for
relationships in serious trouble. Rather it helps those with good
marriages improve communication skills and draw closer together, as
well as mutually closer to God. Most couples leave the workshop
feeling invigorated and renewed in their commitment to each other,
armed with practical ways to communicate better.
Registration is open to all, with a fee of $50.00 per couple. The
registration fee covers the cost of the program, and a free will offering
will be accepted to help with meals. Contact us at 610-395-3258 or by
e-mail at [email protected]. Please register by March 17, 2014.
Put it on your calendar, and contact us today. We look forward to
meeting you!
Kid’s Game Day
Saturday, March 1 10:45 a.m.—1:45 p.m.
Grades K—5
On Saturday March 1st, the Children's Ministry will hold the first annual
Kids' Game Day. This will be a spectacular time of amazing large group
games, small group games, individual games, Wii Dance Party, and a life-sized Candy Land. This is an
event that your child will not want to miss!
Come to the Welcome Desk at the church sanctuary for Check-in and Drop-Off. Here your child will
be assigned their group name and then they can proceed to the sanctuary for the Wii Dance Party.
From there, kids will move from station to station, experiencing the fun of various exciting games.
A Hot Dog Lunch will be provided.
For Parents who choose to stay, there will be food and fun in the Parents' Lounge.
Also, a Spiritual Gifts class will be offered for all adults during that time .
Go to the Bethany Church Website to Register for this event and get more information.
February/March 2014
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OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD
Dear Bethany Church,
We'd like to thank all who donated time, effort, and funding to help with Operation Christmas Child this
year. Our goal this year was to collect 400 boxes for the children. Thanks to all of you, we were able to meet
and pass our goal - 549 boxes were collected!
We know "All praise and glory belong to Him, for He is the One who makes everything possible" Psalm 96:8.
We all belong to the body of Christ - each with different gifts. To those who were able to attend the
packing party on November 16th, you served our Lord in a wonderful way - 224 boxes were packed that
night!
When we combine our efforts with the efforts of others and allow God to direct our paths, the result is a
beautiful tribute to how God can work in our lives for the support of others. Many children will be blessed
through the gift of these boxes.
To all who participated - in whatever capacity - we thank you sincerely.
The OCC team
NEW for 2014! Operation Christmas Child will be featuring a new item each month to donate. These items
will be used for the 2nd annual Packing Party in November. For the month of February, we will be collecting
toothbrushes (toothpaste can no longer be sent in the shoeboxes). Please place your donations in the OCC
bins around the church. We are also looking for people interested in finding out how they can get more
involved in this growing ministry, please email Julie DiGiacomo, [email protected] if you want more
details. Thank you!
ROOT CAUSE
Bethany Men’s
Conference
March 28—29,
2014
$10 registration
$15 at door
Register on-line at
www.bethanyumchurch.com/
February 15th 5:30pm
Bethany Catasauqua Campus
429 Walnut Street
Catasauqua, PA 18032
Bethanyumchurch.com
Men
Address the root cause
of
Page 18
Bethany Post
A Thank You From Dough2Door
Moses never retired. With God at the helm, he just kept changing directions. We were
not meant to retire either. God has given us Dough2Door as our new direction. Our
purpose here is to thank those who were listening and heard God’s call to help in
2013.
Thanks, Marlene Dorman who has her antennas up for connecting us with either donors or recipients and
helps us once a week.
--------------------------Thanks, Sharon Bates for showing up at our door one day and stepping up to help us regularly by picking
up donor goods on her own and then meeting us for the rest of the pick-ups and deliveries.
---------------------- ----Thanks, Denise Morth who is recently retired and has a new baby grandchild nearby. “Mrs. Hospitality” has
served all over Bethany but was kind enough to help us, too. And when Steve retired, the following Monday
there he was to serve. Thanks, Steve.
-------------------------Thanks, Iva Campbell. When she has a day off, there she is to lend a hand.
-------------------------Thanks, Pam and Misty. Our two daughters are there when we need help. It has become their ministry,
too. Asher and Jaida have spent precious summer hours helping.
--------------------------Thanks also to Mark Dinger, Dan Heinmets, Barbara Sefranek and Keri Crawford for their much
appreciated service. Bless you all!
John and Bobbi Janson
[email protected]
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Bethany Church,
Thank you so much for your donation (esp. the formula!) You are why we are able to keep our doors open.
You help us accomplish our mission of honoring life…offering hope…healing the broken hearted!
CareNet LV. & Staff
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Dear Bethany Family,
Thank you for the money to buy gifts for the children at Kids Peace Outpatient Therapy Center on Green St.
These gifts brought joy to children who are challenged in their lives.
God Bless
Susan Evatt
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Dear Members of Bethany Church,
During this season, I wanted to thank you for your continued generosity and support of Sheridan Elementary
School. The Friday food bags provide such a needed resource to our families. Your church’s donations and
generosity mean so much to Sheridan and to me personally. I hope you have a blessed holiday season
knowing your church makes a huge difference in the lives of the families of Sheridan School.
Sincerely,
Erica Simmons
School Counselor at Sheridan
February/March 2014
Page 19
Dear Bethany Family,
We would like to thank you for all the expressions of love you have extended to us at the time of my
Mother’s physical death. Your love for us gave us strength and certainly made us feel loved. God Bless You,
Jim & Gloria
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Dear Bethany Church Family,
On behalf of the entire Ashmar family, I would like to extend our sincere gratitude for your prayers and for
the compassion you extended to us following the passing of my father, Fadel Ashmar. In recent years, my
father had several hospitalizations and was always appreciative of the prayers and visits he received from his
Bethany Church family.
Pastor Jim and Pastor Mike, thank you for comforting our family during the final hours of my father’s
physical life and for the continued love and support you show my mother. God has given you the gift of
compassion and we are grateful that you are using that gift to serve others.
Finally, and most importantly, we want to thank each of you who allowed God to use you to lead my father
to the Lord. As many of you know, my father, at age 68, publicly accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord
during his baptism here at Bethany in June 2006. We now take great comfort in knowing that, as a believer,
he will now spend eternity in heaven.
Sincerely, Andy Ashmar
BETHANY EVENTS
Spiritual Gift Study
5th Sunday Servants/Connectors
A new study on spiritual gifts will begin on
Thursday, January 30. The class will meet in room
219/221 on Thursday evenings from 7:00-8:30
p.m. on 1/30, 2/6, 2/20, 2/27 and 3/6 (no class on
2/13). The study will cover biblical references to
spiritual gifts: an assessment of spiritual gifts; and
how our spiritual gifts fit together with how God
created us to lead us to an area of ministry (service)
for Him. It is not too late to sign up. Contact:
Donna Barnwell in the church office.
Every few months, there are 5 Sundays in a month.
On 5th Sundays, there are special opportunities to
“try out” different ministries. Do you think you
might like to greet or you might like to hand out
bulletins at the 11:00 a.m. service? Do you think
you might want to bring a snack for fellowship time?
Do you want to “try out” one of these ministries and
see how you like it? In March there will be 5
Sundays so watch the pew sheet to sign up to “try
out” greeting, handing out bulletins, or donating a
snack.
Saturday Fellowship News
Crock Pot Dinner
There will be a special evening fellowship on
February 8 and everyone is invited. This fellowship
time will be a crock pot luck! Sign up on the pew
sheet, make your favorite crock pot meal (main dish,
veggie, or dessert), and come and enjoy dinner with
Bethany friends. Paper products, drinks and, bread/
rolls will be supplied.
Fellowship Times
Sunday mornings from 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Saturday evenings after 5:00 p.m. worship
First Time Visitor Gifts
In the narthex/foyer and in the Carlson Hall area, you
may notice a table with books and a sign indicating
the books are for first time visitors. These books are
gifts for Bethany’s first time visitors. If you are
interested in a copy of one of the books, please
check with the church office. We respectively ask
that you not take a book reserved for first time
visitors.
Thank you for your understanding.
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Bethany Post
SENIOR CITIZENS BIRTHDAYS
BIRTHDAYS
FEBRUARY
MaryAnn Solt (2/4) 4230 Dorney Park Rd., Apt. 204, Allentown, PA 18104
Carol Gatch (2/7) 2520 Waynesborough Court, Macungie, PA 18062
Lee Becker (2/8) 2029 Brickyard Road, Allentown, PA 18104
Dann Hall (2/9) 6150 Blue Church Rd. S., Coopersburg, PA 18036
Greg Douglass (2/15) 1670 Lamplighter Drive, Macungie, PA 18062
Jim Martis (2/17) 4974 Shawnee Court, Schnecksville, PA 18078
Ray Bertram (2/21) 1025 A Village Round, Allentown, PA 18106
Sandra Hohl (2/21) 5041 Cypress Street, Allentown, PA 18106
Ransford Campbell (2/23) 331 S. 18th, Allentown, PA 18104
Phyllis McBride (2/27) 7485 Spring Creek, Macungie, PA 18062
Bruce Trotter (2/29) 3946 New Smithville Road, Kempton, PA 19529
MARCH
Ray Phillips (3/2) 4029 Westview Drive, Allentown, PA 18104
Patricia Boyd (3/5) 5767 Whitemarsh Drive, Macungie, PA 18062
Sally Rocker (3/7) 6509 Charles Court, Macungie, PA 18062
Patty Sheffer (3/8) 3276 Sequoia Drive, Macungie, PA 18062
Dick Lloyd (3/9) 31 Bastian Lane, Allentown, PA 18104
Barb Fackler (3/12) 4997 Cypress Street, Allentown, PA 18106
Clarice Blank (3/16) 1415 Promise Lane, Allentown, PA 18106
Toni Harris (3/17) 3107 Elizabeth Lane, Macungie, PA 18062
Bobbi Janson (3/19) 325 N. Broad Street, Allentown, PA 18104
Dan Miller (3/27) 547 Broad Street, Emmaus, PA 18049
Lorraine Nicholson (3/30) 1641 33rd, SW, Apt. 102, Allentown, PA 18103
Penny Sedovy (3/31) 1325 Marathon Drive, Whitehall, PA 18052