Hello Bethlehem,

Join us this Sunday for Bethlehem’s second Generous Together gathering. This series of intergenerational gatherings provide a chance to explore, create and share about generosity. All are welcome to join the Stewardship Board in Grounds for Joy at 10:45am this Sunday for donuts, coffee and Generous Together!

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Announcements

Last call for VBS Amazon Wishlist! If you want to contribute by buying from our Amazon Wish List, please order by today. Thank you for all the wonderful donations so far!

VBS I Spy: Operation Believe is July 20-23. Dinner is served at 5pm and programming runs from 6-7:30pm. Bethlehem will host this shared VBS experience with Centenary Methodist, First Presbyterian and First Congregational UCC. Learn more and sign up on the Facebook event.

Support the 4th annual Bike.Build.Home 500! This five-day, fully supported cycling event benefits affordable housing organizations. Hosted in Mankato, MN, by Habitat for Humanity of South Central Minnesota, this ride is led by a volunteer steering committee composed of Habitat 500 veterans. Riders can participate in the full 500 km, five-day ride, select single-day options, or ride virtually. The event includes a Build Day, a Century Ride, and opportunities for volunteers to participate. Fundraising is encouraged: Five-day riders: $500 minimum, Single-day riders: $100 per day. Registration includes overnight lodging at Bethany Lutheran College, with dorm and camping options available. Riders are encouraged to arrive July 14 for evening orientation, with daily routes averaging 50–70 miles. Breakfast and dinner are provided each day. In 2025, BBH500 riders raised $175,000 for affordable housing. Join us in 2026 for an unforgettable ride that makes a real impact—in person or virtually. More details and registration available on their Facebook event page.

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry!

Support Bethlehem's artists! We invite you to view "A Retrospective of Works" by Brad Widness and Anne Kronlokken, on display at the Moline Gallery at the Arts Center in St. Peter, June 5 through July 25th.

The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists represents organists, church musicians, and organ music lovers in South Central Minnesota, with activities focused in the cities of Mankato, New Ulm, and Saint Peter. Their Summer Organ Recital series is now underway, featuring FREE concerts open to all Tuesdays at 12:10pm. July 7 - July 21 recitals will take place at the Trinity Chapel of Bethany Lutheran College, and Bethlehem will host the final concerts of the season, July 28 - August 11. We hope you will take advantage of these wonderful opportunities to enjoy the work of talented area musicians, and don’t miss Bethlehem’s own Christine Schulz, performing August 11.

Summer Office Hours: The BLC Office closes at 2:30pm on Tuesdays. Office hours will be 9am - 2:30pm Tuesday, and 9-5pm Wednesday and Thursday. Thank you for understanding!

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our July Monthly Mission Partner is Global Health Ministry. GHM has partnered for over a decade in resource-poor countries to support Lutheran churches that manage hospitals and grassroots efforts all focused on improving the health and wellbeing of the most vulnerable. Each year, thousands of volunteers gather at GHM’s Minnesota-based warehouse to help sort and pack medical equipment and supplies to share around the world. Volunteers include Bethlehem youth participating in this year’s Service & Sun mission project. Bethlehem members have also contributed by making quilts and assembling newborn kits. Kits provide basic items to help parents care for their child, while fostering connections with healthcare professionals. You can be a part of helping the hands that heal!

Giving Goal: $2,000. You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Jerry Williams

First Lutheran in LeSueur

Bricelyn Lutheran in Bricelyn

Grace Lutheran in Nerstrand

St. John Lutheran in Owatonna

Kiyangiri Lutheran in Tanzania

Iglesia San Lucas Lutheran in Colombia

Nguony Keel Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Lectionary Readings

July 12, Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23

July 19, Matthew 13: 24-30, 36-43

July 26, Matthew 13: 31-33, 44-52

Hello Bethlehem,

Thank you for your prayers and support of Service & Sun! 21 youth and 8 adults from four Mankato-Area churches (Bethlehem, Centenary United Methodist, First Presbyterian and Epiphany in Eagle Lake) partnered together for three days filled with hands-on service, games, daily devotions, fun excursions, and a treat to end each day.

Monday was spent weeding the Living Earth Center’s gardens and then rock climbing at MSU before a treat at Mom & Pops. On Tuesday they met extra early to drive to Global Health Ministries in Fridley before enjoying movie treats while seeing Toy Story 5. Wednesday was spent cleaning and spending time with the kids at MYPlace before taking a dip at Tourtellotte with a Fro-yo grand finale. Thank you to all who helped create this great week of meaningful service, fun adventures, and many new friends!

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Announcements

VBS Registration is now open! VBS I Spy: Operation Believe is July 20-23. Dinner is served at 5pm and programming runs from 6-7:30pm. Bethlehem will host this shared VBS experience with Centenary Methodist, First Presbyterian and First Congregational UCC. Learn more and sign up on the Facebook event. Support VBS: Check out the Amazon Wish List!

Support the 4th annual Bike.Build.Home 500! This five-day, fully supported cycling event benefits affordable housing organizations. Hosted in Mankato, MN, by Habitat for Humanity of South Central Minnesota, this ride is led by a volunteer steering committee composed of Habitat 500 veterans. Riders can participate in the full 500 km, five-day ride, select single-day options, or ride virtually. The event includes a Build Day, a Century Ride, and opportunities for volunteers to participate. Fundraising is encouraged: Five-day riders: $500 minimum, Single-day riders: $100 per day. Registration includes overnight lodging at Bethany Lutheran College, with dorm and camping options available. Riders are encouraged to arrive July 14 for evening orientation, with daily routes averaging 50–70 miles. Breakfast and dinner are provided each day. In 2025, BBH500 riders raised $175,000 for affordable housing. Join us in 2026 for an unforgettable ride that makes a real impact—in person or virtually. More details and registration available on their Facebook event page.

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry!

Support Bethlehem's artists! We invite you to view "A Retrospective of Works" by Brad Widness and Anne Kronlokken, on display at the Moline Gallery at the Arts Center in St. Peter, June 5 through July 25th.

The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists represents organists, church musicians, and organ music lovers in South Central Minnesota, with activities focused in the cities of Mankato, New Ulm, and Saint Peter. Their Summer Organ Recital series is now underway, featuring FREE concerts open to all Tuesdays at 12:10pm. June 2 - June 30 recitals have been held at Christ the King Lutheran Church, July 7 - July 21 recitals will take place at the Trinity Chapel of Bethany Lutheran College, and Bethlehem will host the final concerts of the season, July 28 - August 11. We hope you will take advantage of these wonderful opportunities to enjoy the work of talented area musicians, and don’t miss Bethlehem’s own Christine Schulz, performing August 11.

Summer Office Hours: The BLC Office closes at 2:30pm on Tuesdays. Office hours will be 9am - 2:30pm Tuesday, and 9-5pm Wednesday and Thursday. Thank you for understanding!

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Monthly Mission Partner

Last call! Our June Monthly Mission Partner is Iambi Secondary School. This boarding school serves 200 students. ISS has a total of 20 staff. Academically, Iambi Secondary School has been doing very well in various exams. It is among the top ten schools in regional and national examination results. ISS has a conducive environment for students to learn with a reliable power supply, enough books, and enough teachers for all subjects. They also teach computer studies courses and religion. Gifts from Bethlehem have been transformative for ISS, and our past generosity enabled the school to install electricity, allowing the students and teachers to study and prepare lessons after the sun went down. Test scores soared, and enrollment boomed. Please give prayerfully and financially to our friends at Iambi Secondary School.

Giving Goal: $8,000. You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

Our July Monthly Mission Partner will be Global Health Ministries.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Jean Lorentz

Jerry Williams

The family & friends of Earl Peterson

Trinity Lutheran in Albert Lea

Bear Creek Lutheran in Grand Meadow

Lands Lutheran in Zumbrota

Gumanga Lutheran in Tanzania

Ihanja Lutheran in Tanzania

Nkuhi Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

July 5, Matthew 11: 16-19, 25-30

July 12, Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23

Hello Bethlehem,

Service & Sun is underway! We pray for our youth and leaders while they are out and about in the community for three days of fun and service!

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Announcements

Mankato Fair Trade will host Afternoon Tea at Bethlehem this Saturday, June 27. Tickets are $20 for adults, $5 for children 10 and under. Bew Ulm’s Own will be there will Fair Trade goodies for sale and you’ll hear from speaker Kristen King, interfaith leader from Equal Exchange Fair Trade Co-op. Contact Paulette Bertrand to RSVP paulette.bertrand@yahoo.com

VBS Registration is now open! VBS I Spy: Operation Believe is July 20-23. Dinner is served at 5pm and programming runs from 6-7:30pm. Bethlehem will host this shared VBS experience with Centenary Methodist, First Presbyterian and First Congregational UCC. Learn more and sign up on the Facebook event. Support VBS: Check out the Amazon Wish List!

Support the 4th annual Bike.Build.Home 500! This five-day, fully supported cycling event benefits affordable housing organizations. Hosted in Mankato, MN, by Habitat for Humanity of South Central Minnesota, this ride is led by a volunteer steering committee composed of Habitat 500 veterans. Riders can participate in the full 500 km, five-day ride, select single-day options, or ride virtually. The event includes a Build Day, a Century Ride, and opportunities for volunteers to participate. Fundraising is encouraged: Five-day riders: $500 minimum, Single-day riders: $100 per day. Registration includes overnight lodging at Bethany Lutheran College, with dorm and camping options available. Riders are encouraged to arrive July 14 for evening orientation, with daily routes averaging 50–70 miles. Breakfast and dinner are provided each day. In 2025, BBH500 riders raised $175,000 for affordable housing. Join us in 2026 for an unforgettable ride that makes a real impact—in person or virtually. More details and registration available on their Facebook event page.

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry!

Support Bethlehem's artists! We invite you to view "A Retrospective of Works" by Brad Widness and Anne Kronlokken, on display at the Moline Gallery at the Arts Center in St. Peter, June 5 through July 25th.

Summer Office Hours: The BLC Office closes at 2:30pm on Tuesdays. Office hours will be 9am - 2:30pm Tuesday, and 9-5pm Wednesday and Thursday. Thank you for understanding!

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our June Monthly Mission Partner is Iambi Secondary School. This boarding school serves 200 students. ISS has a total of 20 staff. Academically, Iambi Secondary School has been doing very well in various exams. It is among the top ten schools in regional and national examination results. ISS has a conducive environment for students to learn with a reliable power supply, enough books, and enough teachers for all subjects. They also teach computer studies courses and religion. Gifts from Bethlehem have been transformative for ISS, and our past generosity enabled the school to install electricity, allowing the students and teachers to study and prepare lessons after the sun went down. Test scores soared, and enrollment boomed. Please give prayerfully and financially to our friends at Iambi Secondary School.

Giving Goal: $8,000. You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

The family & friends of Gerald “Jerry” Bastian

Grace Lutheran in Albert Lea

Messiah Lutheran in North Mankato

Union Prairie Lutheran in Lanesboro

Jackson Lake Lutheran in Amboy

Pulroaa Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Kijota Lutheran in Tanzania

San Pedro Lutheran in Colombia

Lectionary Readings

June 28, Matthew 10: 40-42

July 5, Matthew 11: 16-19, 25-30

July 12, Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23

Hello Bethlehem,

Service & Sun is next week and the registration deadline is today! BLC 5th-12th graders, join us June 22 - June 24th from 8:30am to 5pm for half a day of service at a local nonprofit, and half a day of fun! You can sign up for one, two, or all three days! Register today for Service & Sun.

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Announcements

Friday is Juneteenth! The 9th Annual Greater Mankato Juneteenth Celebration is on June 19th at the Civic Center Plaza Front Lawn, from 3:00-7:00pm. The annual Freedom Walk begins at 2:30pm starting at the Shared Spaces Building (127 S. 2nd St.) and ending at the event site. Bethlehem’s Welcome & Inclusion Board will be tabling, so stop by and say hello! More details available on the Diversity Council website.

VBS Registration is now open! VBS I Spy: Operation Believe is July 20-23. Dinner is served at 5pm and programming runs from 6-7:30pm. Bethlehem will host this shared VBS experience with Centenary Methodist, First Presbyterian and First Congregational UCC. Learn more and sign up on the Facebook event. Support VBS: Check out the Amazon Wish List

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry!

Mankato Fair Trade will host Afternoon Tea at Bethlehem on Saturday, June 27. Tickets are $20 for adults, $5 for children 10 and under. Bew Ulm’s Own will be there will Fair Trade goodies for sale and you’ll hear from speaker Kristen King, interfaith leader from Equal Exchange Fair Trade Co-op. Contact Paulette Bertrand to RSVP paulette.bertrand@yahoo.com

Support Bethlehem's artists! We invite you to view "A Retrospective of Works" by Brad Widness and Anne Kronlokken, on display at the Moline Gallery at the Arts Center in St. Peter, June 5 through July 25th.

Summer Hours Update: The BLC Office will close at 2:30pm on Tuesdays. Office hours will be 9am - 2:30pm Tuesday, and 9-5pm Wednesday and Thursday. Thank you for understanding!

Update your Breeze account: As summer travels take us on adventures near and far, we miss seeing each others faces. Now is a great time to update your Breeze profile and add a profile photo! Log in to your account, go to your profile and click the profile picture to upload your photo! Information on How to Use Breeze and the link to our Member login are available on our website. Having trouble accessing your account? Reach out to the office and we can help!

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volunteer opportunities

The 4th annual Bike.Build.Home 500 is coming up! This five-day, fully supported cycling event benefits affordable housing organizations. Hosted in Mankato, MN, by Habitat for Humanity of South Central Minnesota, this ride is led by a volunteer steering committee composed of Habitat 500 veterans. Riders can participate in the full 500 km, five-day ride, select single-day options, or ride virtually. The event includes a Build Day, a Century Ride, and opportunities for volunteers to participate. Fundraising is encouraged: Five-day riders: $500 minimum, Single-day riders: $100 per day

Registration includes overnight lodging at Bethany Lutheran College, with dorm and camping options available. Riders are encouraged to arrive July 14 for evening orientation, with daily routes averaging 50–70 miles. Breakfast and dinner are provided each day.

In 2025, BBH500 riders raised $175,000 for affordable housing. Join us in 2026 for an unforgettable ride that makes a real impact—in person or virtually. More details and registration available on their Facebook event page.

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our June Monthly Mission Partner is Iambi Secondary School. This boarding school serves 200 students. ISS has a total of 20 staff. Academically, Iambi Secondary School has been doing very well in various exams. It is among the top ten schools in regional and national examination results. ISS has a conducive environment for students to learn with a reliable power supply, enough books, and enough teachers for all subjects. They also teach computer studies courses and religion. Gifts from Bethlehem have been transformative for ISS, and our past generosity enabled the school to install electricity, allowing the students and teachers to study and prepare lessons after the sun went down. Test scores soared, and enrollment boomed. Please give prayerfully and financially to our friends at Iambi Secondary School.

Giving Goal: $8,000. You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Jerry Williams

Ron Hawker

The family & friends of Gerald “Jerry” Bastian

Deer Creek Valley Lutheran in Glenville

Christ Lutheran in Byron

Bethlehem Lutheran in Lanesboro

Neema Mpipiti Lutheran in Tanzania

Isanzu Lutheran Church & Dispensary in Tanzania

Iguguno Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

June 21, Matthew 10: 24-39

June 28, Matthew 10: 40-42

July 5, Matthew 11: 16-19, 25-30

July 12, Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23

Hello Bethlehem,

Thank you for joining us for our first Generous Together gathering! This series brings together all-ages to imagine, create and share as we explore generosity and stewardship. These brief, all-ages gatherings are designed to reach across generations, so all are welcome. Save the date: our next Generous Together gathering is 10:45am Sunday, July 12 in Grounds for Joy. Coffee and snacks are provided. We’ll see you there!

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This week

This week Bibles & Brews meets this Thursday, June 11 from 6-8pm at Weggy’s. Join Pastor Jacie and BLC friends for casual conversations on faith and culture.

Support Bethlehem's artists! We invite you to view "A Retrospective of Works" by Brad Widness and Anne Kronlokken, on display at the Moline Gallery at the Arts Center in St. Peter, June 5 through July 25th.

Connections Shelter warmly invites the community to join us for A Midsummer Soiree on June 12, 2026—an enchanting evening where fantasy and philanthropy intertwine. Picture yourself wandering through a garden aglow with twinkling fairy lights, sipping signature cocktails or mocktails, and enjoying delicious hors d'oeuvres inspired by the whimsical world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Our magical celebration unfolds in the beautiful Gustavus Arboretum, and every moment spent supports the mission of Connections Shelter: providing a safe, welcoming space for neighbors experiencing homelessness.

Your presence at this elegant summer event helps ensure that everyone has a place to dream. As we expand to year-round shelter services, this night brings hope to life and strengthens our community. We invite all to attend, sponsor, donate auction items, or help spread the word. For event details or to get involved, please reach out to Connections Shelter at liz@connectionsshelter.org or purchase your tickets here. Come share in the magic, community, and purpose—because hope starts here.

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Announcements

Register now for Service & Sun! BLC 5th-12th graders, join us June 22 - June 24th from 8:30am to 5pm for half a day of service and half a day of fun!

Summer Hours Update: The BLC Office will close at 2:30pm on Tuesdays. Office hours will be 9am - 2:30pm Tuesday, and 9-5pm Wednesday and Thursday. Thank you for understanding!

VBS Registration is now open! VBS I Spy: Operation Believe is July 20-23. Dinner is served at 5pm and programming runs from 6-7:30pm. Bethlehem will host this shared VBS experience with Centenary Methodist, First Presbyterian and First Congregational UCC. Learn more and sign up on the Facebook event. Support VBS: Check out the Amazon Wish List

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry!

Mankato Fair Trade will host Afternoon Tea at Bethlehem on Saturday, June 27. Tickets are $20 for adults, $5 for children 10 and under. Bew Ulm’s Own will be there will Fair Trade goodies for sale and you’ll hear from speaker Kristen King, interfaith leader from Equal Exchange Fair Trade Co-op. Contact Paulette Bertrand to RSVP paulette.bertrand@yahoo.com

Update your Breeze account: As summer travels take us on adventures near and far, we miss seeing each others faces. Now is a great time to update your Breeze profile and add a profile photo! Log in to your account, go to your profile and click the profile picture to upload your photo! Information on How to Use Breeze and the link to our Member login are available on our website. Having trouble accessing your account? Reach out to the office and we can help!

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Congratulations 2026 Endowment Fund Scholarship recipients! We wish you well on your academic journeys! If you were awarded a scholarship and were unable to attend worship on Sunday to receive it, please stop by the BLC office to pick up your scholarship.

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volunteer opportunities

Shelter Church Volunteers Needed Sunday, June 14

Formed alongside Connections Ministry, Shelter Church is a Synodically Authorized Outreach Ministry of the SEMN Synod, serving in the Mankato area. This is a “Table Ministry” welcoming those experiencing homelessness, addiction, poverty, disability, mental illness, and more. Each of our gatherings includes a free meal and low-barrier worship service.

Gathering weekly in the basement fellowship hall of Grace Lutheran Church in Mankato, they are looking for groups to provide meals for the 2nd, 4th, and 5th Sundays of June, July, and August 2026.
About Our Meals: serving 15-20 folks, they have a practice of preparing extra food and offering generous servings/seconds/leftovers-to-go, so plan on 30-40 servings. All you need to bring is yourself and dinner!

• Timing: 4:30pm Dinner, 5pm Church Doors open to the Shelter Church community at 4pm. Pastor Sarah and other Shelter Church volunteers/attendees help clean up the fellowship hall space before leaving, and we are typically out of the building around 6pm.

• A typical meal at Shelter Church has: main dish, 1-2 sides, a dessert. Soft, easy to chew options preferred.

• Where to Find Us: Grace Lutheran Church 110 N 4th St, Mankato, MN 56001 (Enter through the west door (in the alley, at the back of the building)

• Interested in serving Sunday, June 14? Reply to this email or email blchurch@blcmankato.org and we will let Pastor Sarah know!

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our June Monthly Mission Partner is Iambi Secondary School. This boarding school serves 200 students. ISS has a total of 20 staff. Academically, Iambi Secondary School has been doing very well in various exams. It is among the top ten schools in regional and national examination results. ISS has a conducive environment for students to learn with a reliable power supply, enough books, and enough teachers for all subjects. They also teach computer studies courses and religion. Gifts from Bethlehem have been transformative for ISS, and our past generosity enabled the school to install electricity, allowing the students and teachers to study and prepare lessons after the sun went down. Test scores soared, and enrollment boomed. Please give prayerfully and financially to our friends at Iambi Secondary School.

Giving Goal: $8,000. You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Jerry Williams

Abbe Austin

Ronald Hawker

Trinity Lutheran in Owatonna

Bethlehem Lutheran of Myrtle in Glenville

Faith Lutheran in Winona

CELCO (Colegio de la Evangelica Luterana de Colombia) in San Lucas, Bogota

Kisiriri Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

June 14, Matthew 9: 35-10:8

June 21, Matthew 10: 24-39

Hello Bethlehem,

Bethlehem is embarking on a new Generous Together series beginning on Sunday, June 7! Join us in Grounds for Joy after worship for these monthly sessions to imagine, create and share as we explore generosity and stewardship. These brief, all-ages gatherings are designed to reach across generations, so all are welcome! Coffee and snacks are provided.

Congratulations Scholars! This year Bethlehem’s Endowment Board is awarding 20 scholarships to Bethlehem undergraduate students. Congratulations to: Adam Jeff, Alayna Bruns, Alexa Bolstad, Alexis Stapelman, Annika Bruns, Aubrey Haynes, Aubrey Swenson, Azlee Schaefer, Emily Swenson, Evan MacLean, Gwyneth Blickem, Jack Kehoe, Jada Sivertsen, Kjera Arntz, Louisa Andresen, Matthew Smith, Mckenzie Bock, Parker Keenan, Sean Stevensen and Tyler Adams. Scholarships will be distributed at 9:30am worship on Sunday, June 7. Recipients, please plan to attend worship that day to receive your scholarship. Congratulations, scholars. We wish you well on your academic journey!

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Announcements

Tonight is All Boards Night! Outgoing, continuing and incoming board members are invited to join us this evening: Jake’s Pizza will arrive around 5:00pm and conversation will run from 5:30-7:30pm. Together we will celebrate your hard work and discern where the Spirit is leading Bethlehem. Forgot to RSVP? Don’t worry! There will be space (and pizza) for you! We’ll see you tonight!

Happy Pride Month! Bethlehem has been a proud Reconciling in Christ (RIC) Congregation since 2020. Learn more about RIC and What Be Believe on our website. Southeast Minnesota celebrates Pridefest September 10-13.

Thank you for a successful Blood Drive last Thursday! The Red Cross collected 26 units with many BLC members donating.

Summer Hours Update: The BLC Office will close at 2:30pm on Tuesdays. Office hours will be 9am - 2:30pm Tuesday, and 9-5pm Wednesday and Thursday. Thank you for understanding!

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry!

Registration is now open for Service & Sun! BLC 5th-12th graders, join us June 22 - June 24th from 8:30am to 5pm for half a day of service and half a day of fun!

VBS Registration is now open! VBS I Spy: Operation Believe is July 20-23. Dinner is served at 5pm and programming runs from 6-7:30pm. Bethlehem will host this shared VBS experience with Centenary Methodist, First Presbyterian and First Congregational UCC. Learn more and sign up on the Facebook event.

Mankato Fair Trade will host Afternoon Tea at Bethlehem on Saturday, June 27. Tickets are $20 for adults, $5 for children 10 and under. Bew Ulm’s Own will be there will Fair Trade goodies for sale and you’ll hear from speaker Kristen King, interfaith leader from Equal Exchange Fair Trade Co-op. Contact Paulette Bertrand to RSVP paulette.bertrand@yahoo.com

Update your Breeze account: As summer travels take us on adventures near and far, we miss seeing each others faces. Now is a great time to update your Breeze profile and add a profile photo! Log in to your account, go to your profile and click the profile picture to upload your photo! Information on How to Use Breeze and the link to our Member login are available on our website. Having trouble accessing your account? Reach out to the office and we can help!

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SHelter church Volunteers needed Sunday, June 14

Formed alongside Connections Ministry, Shelter Church is a Synodically Authorized Outreach Ministry of the SEMN Synod, serving in the Mankato area. This is a “Table Ministry” welcoming those experiencing homelessness, addiction, poverty, disability, mental illness, and more. Each of our gatherings includes a free meal and low-barrier worship service.

Gathering weekly in the basement fellowship hall of Grace Lutheran Church in Mankato, they are looking for groups to provide meals for the 2nd, 4th, and 5th Sundays of June, July, and August 2026.
About Our Meals: serving 15-20 folks, they have a practice of preparing extra food and offering generous servings/seconds/leftovers-to-go, so plan on 30-40 servings. All you need to bring is yourself and dinner!

Timing: 4:30pm Dinner, 5pm Church Doors open to the Shelter Church community at 4pm. Pastor Sarah and other Shelter Church volunteers/attendees help clean up the fellowship hall space before leaving, and we are typically out of the building around 6pm.

A typical meal at Shelter Church has: main dish, 1-2 sides, a dessert. Soft, easy to chew options preferred.

Where to Find Us: Grace Lutheran Church 110 N 4th St, Mankato, MN 56001 (Enter through the west door (in the alley, at the back of the building)

Interested in serving Sunday, June 14? Reply to this email or email blchurch@blcmankato.org and we will let Pastor Sarah know!

volunteer opportunities

Connections Shelter warmly invites the community to join us for A Midsummer Soiree on June 12, 2026—an enchanting evening where fantasy and philanthropy intertwine. Picture yourself wandering through a garden aglow with twinkling fairy lights, sipping signature cocktails or mocktails, and enjoying delicious hors d'oeuvres inspired by the whimsical world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Our magical celebration unfolds in the beautiful Gustavus Arboretum, and every moment spent supports the mission of Connections Shelter: providing a safe, welcoming space for neighbors experiencing homelessness.

 Your presence at this elegant summer event helps ensure that everyone has a place to dream. As we expand to year-round shelter services, this night brings hope to life and strengthens our community. We invite all to attend, sponsor, donate auction items, or help spread the word. For event details or to get involved, please reach out to Connections Shelter at liz@connectionsshelter.org or purchase your tickets here. Come share in the magic, community, and purpose—because hope starts here.

COPAL extends thanks to the members of Bethlehem for providing food and support during this time of need.  At this time they are shifting from pantry donations to a focus on financial support. To learn more and donate online, visit their website.

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our June Monthly Mission Partner is Iambi Secondary School. This boarding school serves 200 students. ISS has a total of 20 staff. Academically, Iambi Secondary School has been doing very well in various exams. It is among the top ten schools in regional and national examination results. ISS has a conducive environment for students to learn with a reliable power supply, enough books, and enough teachers for all subjects. They also teach computer studies courses and religion. Gifts from Bethlehem have been transformative for ISS, and our past generosity enabled the school to install electricity, allowing the students and teachers to study and prepare lessons after the sun went down. Test scores soared, and enrollment boomed. Please give prayerfully and financially to our friends at Iambi Secondary School.

Giving Goal: $8,000. You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Abbe Austin

Hosanna Lutheran in Rochester

Trinity Lutheran in Ostrander

Our Savior’s Lutheran in Spring Valley

LeSueur River Lutheran in New Richland

Sayuni Kinyambuli Lutheran in Tanzania

The True Vine Ministry in Colombia

Preventative Mental Health Ministry in Colombia

Lectionary Readings

June 7, Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26

June 14, Matthew 9: 35-10:8

June 21, Matthew 10: 24-39

Hello Bethlehem,

June 1 is All Boards Night! Outgoing, continuing and incoming board members are invited to join us 5:30-7:30pm for Jake’s Pizza and conversation. We will celebrate your hard work and discern where the Spirit is leading Bethlehem. Forgot to RSVP? Don’t worry! There will be space (and pizza) for you!

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Announcements

Bethlehem’s Blood Drive is this 1-6pm this Thursday in Grounds for Joy. Sign up today to save lives: make your appointment.

Summer Hours Update: The BLC Office will close at 2:30pm on Tuesdays. Office hours will be 9am - 2:30pm Tuesday, and 9-5pm Wednesday and Thursday. Thank you for understanding!

Congratulations Scholars! This year Bethlehem’s Endowment Board is awarding 20 scholarships to Bethlehem undergraduate students. Congratulations to: Adam Jeff, Alayna Bruns, Alexa Bolstad, Alexis Stapelman, Annika Bruns, Aubrey Haynes, Aubrey Swenson, Azlee Schaefer, Emily Swenson, Evan MacLean, Gwyneth Blickem, Jack Kehoe, Jada Sivertsen, Kjera Arntz, Louisa Andresen, Matthew Smith, Mckenzie Bock, Parker Keenan, Sean Stevensen and Tyler Adams. Scholarships will be distributed at 9:30am worship on Sunday, June 7. Recipients, please plan to attend worship that day to receive your scholarship. Congratulations, scholars. We wish you well on your academic journey!

Bethlehem is embarking on a new Generous Together series beginning on Sunday, June 7! Join us in Grounds for Joy after worship for these monthly sessions to imagine, create and share as we explore generosity and stewardship. These brief, all-ages gatherings are designed to reach across generations, so all are welcome! Coffee and snacks are provided.

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry!

Registration is now open for Service & Sun! BLC 5th-12th graders, join us June 22 - June 24th from 8:30am to 5pm for half a day of service and half a day of fun!

VBS Registration is now open! VBS I Spy: Operation Believe is July 20-23. Dinner is served at 5pm and programming runs from 6-7:30pm. Bethlehem will host this shared VBS experience with Centenary Methodist, First Presbyterian and First Congregational UCC. Learn more and sign up on the Facebook event.

Update your Breeze account: As summer travels take us on adventures near and far, we miss seeing each others faces. Now is a great time to update your Breeze profile and add a profile photo! Log in to your account, go to your profile and click the profile picture to upload your photo! Information on How to Use Breeze and the link to our Member login are available on our website. Having trouble accessing your account? Reach out to the office and we can help!

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SHelter church Volunteers needed Sunday, June 14

Formed alongside Connections Ministry, Shelter Church is a Synodically Authorized Outreach Ministry of the SEMN Synod, serving in the Mankato area. This is a “Table Ministry” welcoming those experiencing homelessness, addiction, poverty, disability, mental illness, and more. Each of our gatherings includes a free meal and low-barrier worship service.

Gathering weekly in the basement fellowship hall of Grace Lutheran Church in Mankato, they are looking for groups to provide meals for the 2nd, 4th, and 5th Sundays of June, July, and August 2026.
About Our Meals: serving 15-20 folks, they have a practice of preparing extra food and offering generous servings/seconds/leftovers-to-go, so plan on 30-40 servings. All you need to bring is yourself and dinner!

Timing: 4:30pm Dinner, 5pm Church Doors open to the Shelter Church community at 4pm. Pastor Sarah and other Shelter Church volunteers/attendees help clean up the fellowship hall space before leaving, and we are typically out of the building around 6pm.

A typical meal at Shelter Church has: main dish, 1-2 sides, a dessert. Soft, easy to chew options preferred.

Where to Find Us: Grace Lutheran Church 110 N 4th St, Mankato, MN 56001 (Enter through the west door (in the alley, at the back of the building)

Interested in serving Sunday, June 14? Reply to this email or email blchurch@blcmankato.org and we will let Pastor Sarah know!

volunteer opportunities

Connections Shelter warmly invites the community to join us for A Midsummer Soiree on June 12, 2026—an enchanting evening where fantasy and philanthropy intertwine. Picture yourself wandering through a garden aglow with twinkling fairy lights, sipping signature cocktails or mocktails, and enjoying delicious hors d'oeuvres inspired by the whimsical world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Our magical celebration unfolds in the beautiful Gustavus Arboretum, and every moment spent supports the mission of Connections Shelter: providing a safe, welcoming space for neighbors experiencing homelessness.

 Your presence at this elegant summer event helps ensure that everyone has a place to dream. As we expand to year-round shelter services, this night brings hope to life and strengthens our community. We invite all to attend, sponsor, donate auction items, or help spread the word. For event details or to get involved, please reach out to Connections Shelter at liz@connectionsshelter.org or purchase your tickets here. Come share in the magic, community, and purpose—because hope starts here.

COPAL extends thanks to the members of Bethlehem for providing food and support during this time of need.  At this time they are shifting from pantry donations to a focus on financial support. To learn more and donate online, visit their website.

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thank you

Thank you to Sunday’s guest preacher, Rev. Dennis Frank, who led us in worship!

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our May Monthly Mission Partner is Connections Shelter. Bethlehem helped found this shelter where neighbors experiencing homelessness can rest, rebuild, and begin moving towards stability. This year they are launching a campaign to provide overnight shelter year round. And if you donate to Connections in May, your dollars will go 4x as far! Bethlehem’s Endowment Board is doubling donations this month, and all contributions will be doubled again by Connections matching grants. There couldn’t be a better time to give! You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

Bethlehem members are also invited to continue serving this important ministry through volunteering and/or providing meals. Please follow the link to sign up!

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Grace Lutheran in Fairmont

Minneola Lutheran in Goodhue

Christ Lutheran in Faribault

San Marcos Lutheran in Colombia

Nkinto Lutheran in Tanzania

San Juan Lutheran in Colombia

Lectionary Readings

May 31, Matthew 28: 16-20

June 7, Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26

Hello Bethlehem,

The School’s Out Celebration is this Friday! RSVP on the Facebook event by May 20th to join us for the fun at Wheeler Park!

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announcements & reminders

Bethlehem’s Blood Drive is next Thursday! Sign up today to save lives: make your appointment.

June 1 is All Boards Night! Outgoing and incoming board members are invited to join us 5:30-7:30pm for Jake’s Pizza and conversation. We will celebrate your hard work and discern where the Spirit is leading Bethlehem.

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry!

Registration is now open for Service & Sun! BLC 5th-12th graders, join us June 22 - June 24th from 8:30am to 5pm for half a day of service and half a day of fun!

VBS Registration is now open! VBS I Spy: Operation Believe is July 20-23. Dinner is served at 5pm and programming runs from 6-7:30pm. Bethlehem will host this shared VBS experience with Centenary Methodist, First Presbyterian and First Congregational UCC. Learn more and sign up on the Facebook event.

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SHelter church Volunteers needed Sunday, June 14

Formed alongside Connections Ministry, Shelter Church is a Synodically Authorized Outreach Ministry of the SEMN Synod, serving in the Mankato area. This is a “Table Ministry” welcoming those experiencing homelessness, addiction, poverty, disability, mental illness, and more. Each of our gatherings includes a free meal and low-barrier worship service.

Gathering weekly in the basement fellowship hall of Grace Lutheran Church in Mankato, they are looking for groups to provide meals for the 2nd, 4th, and 5th Sundays of June, July, and August 2026.
About Our Meals: serving 15-20 folks, they have a practice of preparing extra food and offering generous servings/seconds/leftovers-to-go, so plan on 30-40 servings. All you need to bring is yourself and dinner!

Timing: 4:30pm Dinner, 5pm Church Doors open to the Shelter Church community at 4pm. Pastor Sarah and other Shelter Church volunteers/attendees help clean up the fellowship hall space before leaving, and we are typically out of the building around 6pm.

A typical meal at Shelter Church has: main dish, 1-2 sides, a dessert. Soft, easy to chew options preferred.

Where to Find Us: Grace Lutheran Church 110 N 4th St, Mankato, MN 56001 (Enter through the west door (in the alley, at the back of the building)

Interested in serving Sunday, June 14? Reply to this email or email blchurch@blcmankato.org and we will let Pastor Sarah know!

volunteer opportunities

Tuesday afternoon office volunteers are needed for the summer! Contact Molly Nelson, mnelson@blcmankato.org if you are interested in helping out in the church office.

COPAL extends thanks to the members of Bethlehem for providing food and support during this time of need.  At this time they are shifting from pantry donations to a focus on financial support. To learn more and donate online, visit their website.

Connections Shelter warmly invites the community to join us for A Midsummer Soiree on June 12, 2026—an enchanting evening where fantasy and philanthropy intertwine. Picture yourself wandering through a garden aglow with twinkling fairy lights, sipping signature cocktails or mocktails, and enjoying delicious hors d'oeuvres inspired by the whimsical world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Our magical celebration unfolds in the beautiful Gustavus Arboretum, and every moment spent supports the mission of Connections Shelter: providing a safe, welcoming space for neighbors experiencing homelessness.

 Your presence at this elegant summer event helps ensure that everyone has a place to dream. As we expand to year-round shelter services, this night brings hope to life and strengthens our community. We invite all to attend, sponsor, donate auction items, or help spread the word. For event details or to get involved, please reach out to Connections Shelter at liz@connectionsshelter.org or purchase your tickets here. Come share in the magic, community, and purpose—because hope starts here.

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Thank you

Thank you to ACT Mankato/North Mankato for leading our final Adult Forum of the season yesterday! It’s been another great year of learning together on Sunday’s after worship. Adult Forums will resume in the fall.

Thank you to Rev. Becky Sullivan for preaching on Sunday!

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our May Monthly Mission Partner is Connections Shelter. Bethlehem helped found this shelter where neighbors experiencing homelessness can rest, rebuild, and begin moving towards stability. This year they are launching a campaign to provide overnight shelter year round. And if you donate to Connections in May, your dollars will go 4x as far! Bethlehem’s Endowment Board is doubling donations this month, and all contributions will be doubled again by Connections matching grants. There couldn’t be a better time to give! You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

Bethlehem members are also invited to continue serving this important ministry through volunteering and/or providing meals. Please follow the link to sign up!

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Susan Brown

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

St. John Lutheran in Mapleton

Vasa Lutheran in Welch

Dinka Sudanese Worshipping Community in Austin

San Jose de Leon in Colombia

Mwangeza Lutheran in Tanzania

Sayuni Mipilo Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

May 24, Acts 2:1-21, 1 Corinthians 12:3-7

May 31, Matthew 28: 16-20

June 7, Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26

Hello Bethlehem,

Thank you for joining us last week for our Year-End Picnic at the park! We are officially in our summer schedule. Wednesday night activities will resume in the fall. Keep an eye out for our Summer Catalog coming soon with all the events and programming to look forward to this summer.

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This week

Adult Forum: Our final forum of the season is this Sunday! Join us after worship as we learn about Mankato/ North Mankato ACT on Alzheimers with Team Leader, Sandi Lubrant. Gather at 10:45am in Grounds for Joy for coffee, donuts, fellowship and learning!

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry!

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family Faith formation

• Registration is now open for Service & Sun!

• Save the date: our School’s Out Celebration is Friday, May 22nd! More details are available in the Facebook event.

• VBS Registration is now open! Learn more and sign up on the Facebook event.

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announcements

June 1 is All Boards Night! Outgoing and incoming board members are invited to join us 5:30-7:30pm for Jake’s Pizza and conversation. We will celebrate your hard work and discern where the Spirit is leading Bethlehem.

Tuesday afternoon office volunteers are needed for the summer! Contact Molly Nelson, mnelson@blcmankato.org if you are interested in helping out in the church office.

Shelter Church: As Connections Shelter has grown and adapted, so has Shelter Church. It has become its own independently-run organization and is now recognized as a Synodically Authorized Outreach Ministry of the Southeastern MN Synod of the ELCA, and Pastor Sarah Krolak has been called to serve here. Shelter Church is “a Table Ministry,” with each gathering including a free meal and a low-barrier worship service. Shelter Church is welcoming to those experiencing homelessness, addiction, poverty, disability, mental illness, and more. This summer they are returning to weekly gatherings! For the months of June, July, and August, we are looking for additional partners to prepare and serve meals. If you are interested email shelterchurchmankato@gmail.com

COPAL extends thanks to the members of Bethlehem for providing food and support during this time of need.  At this time they are shifting from pantry donations to a focus on financial support. To learn more and donate online, visit their website.

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thank you

Even though Spring Semester ends this week, students eagerly joined us today for our final Lunch For-a-Buck of the 2025-2026 school year! We are thankful and blessed to have Bethlehem Lutheran Church and your volunteers as partners in our ministry to feed students through our Lunch For-a-Buck program. On Tuesday, May 5th, faithful servants Jan Blaisdell, Karen Sandersfeld, Jane Petersen, and Sue Larsen prepared and served a Cinco de Mayo inspired luncheon of chicken enchiladas, cheese & onion enchiladas, rice and beans, Fritos corn chips, organic spring mix salad, and cookies to 35 hungry lunch goers. They also collected $45.50 in donations that will be used to purchase the salad supplies, beverages, dinnerware, and other items for future lunches.

May God bless you for your generosity and for supporting the students and our ministry at Crossroads. We look forward to seeing you again during the 2026-2027 school year as we continue to feed the Lord's sheep. We truly couldn't do what we do without you!! 

Gratefully,

Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry

Thank you to the Fair Trade Committee at Bethlehem for putting on a beautiful Mother’s Day sale yesterday!

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our May Monthly Mission Partner is Connections Shelter. Bethlehem helped found this shelter where neighbors experiencing homelessness can rest, rebuild, and begin moving towards stability. This year they are launching a campaign to provide overnight shelter year round. And if you donate to Connections in May, your dollars will go 4x as far! Bethlehem’s Endowment Board is doubling donations this month, and all contributions will be doubled again by Connections matching grants. There couldn’t be a better time to give! You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

Bethlehem members are also invited to continue serving this important ministry through volunteering and/or providing meals. Please follow the link to sign up!

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Susan Brown

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

The family & friends of Rae Allan

East Chain Lutheran in Blue Earth

Christ Lutheran in Preston

First Lutheran in Blooming Prairie

Trinity Lutheran in West Concord

Iambi Lutheran Church & Dispensary in Tanzania

Mruma Lutheran in Tanzania

CELCO (Colegio de la Evangelica Luterana de Colombia) in Sogamoso

Lectionary Readings

May 17 John 17: 1-11

May 24 John 20: 19-23 or John 7: 37-39

May 31Matthew 28: 16-20

Hello Bethlehem,

Congratulations to the Confirmation Class of 2026! It was a joy to celebrate with you in worship yesterday.

The program year is wrapping up here at Bethlehem! Thank you for a wonderful year of education, Wednesday suppers, faith and fellowship. We are looking forward to summer fun. Join us this Wednesday at 5pm for our Year-End Picnic at Spring Lake Park.

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This week

Adult Forum: Global Health Ministries Join us this coming Sunday, May 10 to learn about all of the great work performed by Global Health Ministries. Sam Buegler will present an adult forum focusing on what they do to provide newborn baby kits which Bethlehem volunteers help to produce during the year. We help to make a difference in the world! Join us for coffee and conversation at 10:30 am in Grounds for Joy!

Celebrate Mom with her favorite things - Fair Trade CHOCOLATE and ROSES!  The Fair Trade Committee will be on hand before and after church service on Mother's Day - Sunday, May 10th - selling beautiful roses from Ecuador along with Fair Trade chocolate and assorted coffee and teas.  All proceeds from the sale of these items go to support and empower farmers and workers with better wages, safe working conditions, and ethical practices.  What better way to honor Mom than with gifts that delight AND support a meaningful mission!

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry!

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family Faith formation

Upcoming Events:

• Registration is now open for Service & Sun!

• Save the date: our School’s Out Celebration is Friday, May 22nd! More details are available in the Facebook event.

• VBS Registration is now open! Learn more and sign up on the Facebook event.

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announcements

Office Volunteers are needed for Tuesday afternoons throughout the summer while our Congregational Services Coordinator, Molly Nelson, attends trainings on Tuesday afternoons as part of her seminary education. Please sign up online to take a shift or contact Molly at mnelson@blcmankato.org

June 1 is All Boards Night! Outgoing and incoming board members are invited to join us 5:30-7:30pm for Jake’s Pizza and conversation. We will celebrate your hard work and discern where the Spirit is leading Bethlehem.

Pastor Jay Dahlvang is officially on Sabbatical! We wish the Dahlvang family a wonderful season of restoration and rejuvenation and look forward to welcoming Pastor Jay back to Bethlehem in August.

Shelter Church: As Connections Shelter has grown and adapted, so has Shelter Church. It has become its own independently-run organization and is now recognized as a Synodically Authorized Outreach Ministry of the Southeastern MN Synod of the ELCA, and Pastor Sarah Krolak has been called to serve here. Shelter Church is “a Table Ministry,” with each gathering including a free meal and a low-barrier worship service. Shelter Church is welcoming to those experiencing homelessness, addiction, poverty, disability, mental illness, and more. This summer they are returning to weekly gatherings! For the months of June, July, and August, we are looking for additional partners to prepare and serve meals. If you are interested email shelterchurchmankato@gmail.com

COPAL extends thanks to the members of Bethlehem for providing food and support during this time of need.  At this time they are shifting from pantry donations to a focus on financial support. To learn more and donate online, visit their website.

---

Monthly Mission Partner

Our May Monthly Mission Partner is Connections Shelter. Bethlehem helped found this shelter where neighbors experiencing homelessness can rest, rebuild, and begin moving towards stability. This year they are launching a campaign to provide overnight shelter year round. Connections matching grants will double each dollar donated, so let’s give generously to our friends and neighbors! You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

Bethlehem members are also invited to continue serving this important ministry through volunteering and/or providing meals. Please follow the link to sign up!

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Susan Brown

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

The family & friends of Rae Allan

St. Peter’s Lutheran in Northfield

Bethel Lutheran in Rochester

North Waseca Lutheran in Waseca

Mazoezi Minyughe Lutheran in Tanzania

Misigiri Lutheran in Tanzania

Emanuel Cathedral Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

May 6 John 14:1-14

May 10 John 14: 15-21

May 17 John 17: 1-11