Hello Bethlehem,

Bethlehem’s Fall Catalogs have been mailed! Check your mailbox or pick up a copy from the Welcome Kiosk to see all the exciting new offerings at Bethlehem this season, including a Pet Blessing, Thanksgiving Eve worship, and more. 

Mark your calendars: We will gather for God’s Work, Our Hands on Sunday, September 7 & Wednesday, September 10. This year’s theme is Share, Receive, Be Blessed. Join us for a meal, music, community art and service projects, and a chance to reconnect with your church family. This will also be your time to complete a Time & Talent form, so begin to think about where you feel called to share your passions and gifts. Additional God’s Work, Our Hands details are available in the Facebook Event. 

It’s not too soon to start signing up! Head to the BLC website to check out our Small Groups, take a look at the Wednesday Night Supper Menu and Adult Forum schedule, and register for youth programming.  We are so looking forward to a great year of growing in Christ, loving our neighbors, and serving God’s world! 

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Events

Join us for the Blood Drive tomorrow, Tuesday, August 19. The Red Cross is offering an August Community Health initiative: during the month of August, the Red Cross will include A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes, on successful donations. No fasting is needed! Head to the Red Cross website to reserve your donation time slot. 

New Member Orientation: New members, we hope you will join us this Sunday, August 24th to be welcomed during worship. After worship we will gather for an orientation at 10:45am. If you or someone you know is interested in joining Bethlehem, please contact the church office or indicate your interest in the pew pads. 

Night to Unite: Join the Lincoln Park Neighborhood Association in the Bethlehem Parking lot on Tuesday, August 26 from 5:30-8:30PM for their annual Night to Unite! Enjoy a meal, live music, open stage, games and more. Come on out and meet the neighborhood! 

Bethlehem’s Welcome & Inclusion Board invites you to participate in SEMN PrideFest on Saturday, September 6. Saturday’s events will begin with a worship service at First Presbyterian at 9:30 AM. Then, we’ll head together to the 2025 Pride Parade at 11:15 AM. Wear your BLC shirt and join us! We also need volunteers to staff a table in Riverfront Park from 1:00-4:00 PM that day as well. A sign-up sheet is available at the Welcome Center.

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The new and improved Blessings Box has been a great success! Several social media posts in local neighborhood groups have helped spread the word, and community members enjoy stopping by to chat, peruse and restock the Blessings Box, which inspired this year’s God’s Work, Our Hands theme: Share. Receive. Be Blessed! 

Announcements

Invitation to the 2025 GHM Symposium: Healing in a Wounded World is going to be taking place on September 27th, from 9-11:30, followed by lunch, at Normandale Lutheran Church! We are going to spend a morning together in community, learning from three incredible speakers. We will welcome two notable international guest speakers, Archbishop Rev. Dr. Musa Pantl Filibus of the Lutheran Church in Nigeria and Dr. Rebecca Duerst from the Lutheran World Federation, as well as Rev. Doug Cox - GHM's Executive Director. We would love to have you all attend and to spread the word to your congregations about this event! I have attached an image that you can share, and we also have invitations available for pick up at the front desk at GHM.Registration is $20, and is now open at https://www.ghm.org/healing! 

Thank you for an awesome first year of Summer Sack Lunches! We want to especially thank Amy Haigh for all of her work spearheading this work. The final Summer Sack Lunches of the season will be distributed on Sunday, Sept. 7th at 5:00 PM in the parking lot, and then we will return to Wednesday Night Suppers. The fall menu is now available online. 

We Want Your Ideas for Adult Forums The Bethlehem Adult Education Board wants to know what YOU would like to learn about in our Sunday morning adult forums. In addition to promoting our monthly missions, we seek to contribute to BLC member lifelong learning by addressing topics of interest to YOU! Help us to develop a robust 2026 calendar of forum presentations. Are there topics near and dear to you? Are you involved with groups and organizations that connect to Bethlehem's mission and ministry? What would you like to share with members of our congregation? Send your forum ideas to Bob Ihrig at robert.ihrig1@gmail.com We will connect with you to develop future forums in 2026.

It’s been a summer of adventure! Stop in and see the photo wall outside the library lounge with memories from VBS, Camp, and the Boundary Waters. 

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Monthly mission partner

Our August Monthly Mission partner is Crossroads Campus Ministry at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Bethlehem has a long and close relationship with Crossroads and Pastor Jacie currently serves on their board. Led by Pastor Jenna Couch, the mission of Crossroads includes building community, deepening faith, growing in the understanding of God, and encouraging service. Crossroads is home to Campus Cupboard, a food support ministry, and offers Lunch 4-a-buck, a weekly meal prepared by local congregations. The majority of students utilizing these resources are international students. With increased costs and increased need, these resources are more important than ever. Your generous support is appreciated. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 
Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry is seeking passionate, dedicated individuals to serve on its Board of Directors. If you care about supporting college students in their faith journeys and want to help guide a vital ministry in our community, we’d love to hear from you! Board members provide leadership, vision, and support to the ministry’s mission on the Minnesota State Mankato campus.For more information or to express interest, please contact Pastor Jenna Couch at pastorjenna@gmail.com, or 507-200-8096.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Pat Nelson Lisa Hagen Ross Hall

Red Oak Grove Lutheran in Austin Hayward Lutheran in Hayward

Mabel First Lutheran in Mabel Solo Por Fe Lutheran in Colombia

Emanuel Cathedral Lutheran in Tanzania Casa La Paz in Medellin, Colombia

Lectionary Readings

August 24, Luke 13:10-17

August 31, Luke 14:1,7-14

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Hello Bethlehem,

They’re back and they brought some great photos with them! The BLC group returned safely from the Boundary Waters after a week in the wilderness. Check out more photos in the Facebook album. 

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Events

Don’t miss Bethlehem’s own, Christine Schulz, performing this week! The Summer Organ Recitals finale will be this Tuesday, August 12, at 12:10 pm in the sanctuary, presented by the Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists. Come and enjoy incredible music with Christine! Each recital is free. Visit www.agosiouxtrails.org for more information. 

Bibles & Brews meets this Thursday! Join Pastor Jacie for meaningful conversation on faith and culture, 6PM at Weggy’s. 

Bethlehem will be hosting a Blood Drive on Tuesday, August 19. The Red Cross is offering an August Community Health initiative: during the month of August, the Red Cross will include A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes, on successful donations. No fasting is needed! Head to the Red Cross website to reserve your donation time slot. 

New Member Orientation: New members, we hope you will join us August 24th to be welcomed during worship. After worship we will gather for an orientation at 10:45am. If you or someone you know is interested in joining Bethlehem, please contact the church office or indicate your interest in the pew pads. 

Bethlehem’s Welcome & Inclusion Board invites you to participate in SEMN PrideFest on Saturday, September 6. Saturday’s events will begin with a worship service at First Presbyterian, start time TBA. Then, we’ll head together to the 2025 Pride Parade at 11:15 am. Wear your BLC shirt and join us! We also need volunteers to staff a table in Riverfront Park from 1:00-4:00 pm that day as well. A sign-up sheet is available at the Welcome Center.

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Announcements

Thank you for an awesome first year of Summer Sack Lunches! We want to especially thank Amy Haigh for leading this make and making sure our community is welcomed and fed all summer long. The final Summer Sack Lunches of the season will be distributed on Sunday, Sept. 7th at 5:00 PM in the parking lot, and then we will return to Wednesday Night Suppers. The fall menu is now available online. 

We Want Your Ideas for Adult Forums

The Bethlehem Adult Education Board wants to know what YOU would like to learn about in our Sunday morning adult forums. In addition to promoting our monthly missions, we seek to contribute to BLC member lifelong learning by addressing topics of interest to YOU! Help us to develop a robust 2026 calendar of forum presentations. Are there topics near and dear to you? Are you involved with groups and organizations that connect to Bethlehem's mission and ministry? What would you like to share with members of our congregation? Send your forum ideas to Bob Ihrig at robert.ihrig1@gmail.com We will connect with you to develop future forums in 2026.

Stewardship Board Wants You

The Bethlehem Stewardship Board has a member vacancy which we would like to fill with an interested and dedicated BLC member. We seek someone who would like to participate in the following activities:

• Monthly thank-you notes to BLC members and others for their services to the church

• Planning and facilitating the 2025 fall stewardship campaign

• Promoting future legacy giving by BLC members

• Reading & learning about promoting stewardship & generosity for the congregation

• Getting to know and working with fellow BLC members

Contact Bob Ihrig at 507-388-1953 or robert.ihrig1@gmail.com with questions or if interested in joining this dynamic and active Bethlehem group. YOU can make a difference for Bethlehem!

---

Monthly mission partner

Our August Monthly Mission partner is Crossroads Campus Ministry at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Bethlehem has a long and close relationship with Crossroads and Pastor Jacie currently serves on their board. Led by Pastor Jenna Couch, the mission of Crossroads includes building community, deepening faith, growing in the understanding of God, and encouraging service. Crossroads is home to Campus Cupboard, a food support ministry, and offers Lunch 4-a-buck, a weekly meal prepared by local congregations. The majority of students utilizing these resources are international students. With increased costs and increased need, these resources are more important than ever. Your generous support is appreciated. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 
Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry is seeking passionate, dedicated individuals to serve on its Board of Directors. If you care about supporting college students in their faith journeys and want to help guide a vital ministry in our community, we’d love to hear from you! Board members provide leadership, vision, and support to the ministry’s mission on the Minnesota State Mankato campus.For more information or to express interest, please contact Pastor Jenna Couch at pastorjenna@gmail.com, or 507-200-8096.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Pat Nelson Lisa Hagen

Ron Orchard Jan Boyum Ross Hall

Mary Clark Scott Volz

Shiloh Lutheran in Elmore Grace Lutheran in Nerstrand

Principe de Paz Lutheran in Colombia Merya Lutheran in Tanzania

Bethlehem Lutheran in Mankato

Lectionary Readings

August 17, Luke 12:49-56

August 24, Luke 13:10-17

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Hello Bethlehem,

The summer adventures continue! BLC Youth and leaders returned from the Shores of St. Andrews last week, and this morning a group headed north for the Boundary Waters. Check out more photos from camp in the Facebook album. We pray our youth and adults have a safe, fun, and blessed week in the Boundary Waters. 

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Announcements

Bethlehem will be hosting a Blood Drive on August 19. The Red Cross is offering an August Community Health initiative: during the month of August, the Red Cross will include A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes, on successful donations. No fasting is needed! Head to the Red Cross website to reserve your donation time slot. 

New Member Orientation: New members, we hope you will join us August 24th to be welcomed during worship. After worship we will gather for an orientation at 10:45am. If you or someone you know is interested in joining Bethlehem, please contact the church office or indicate your interest in the pew pads. 

We Want Your Ideas for Adult Forums The Bethlehem Adult Education Board wants to know what YOU would like to learn about in our Sunday morning adult forums. In addition to promoting our monthly missions, we seek to contribute to BLC member lifelong learning by addressing topics of interest to YOU! Help us to develop a robust 2026 calendar of forum presentations. Are there topics near and dear to you? Are you involved with groups and organizations that connect to Bethlehem's mission and ministry? What would you like to share with members of our congregation? Send your forum ideas to Bob Ihrig at robert.ihrig1@gmail.com We will connect with you to develop future forums in 2026.

SUMMER ORGAN RECITALS The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists presents its annual Summer Noontime Organ Recitals at 12:10 pm on Tuesdays in the Bethlehem sanctuary. Upcoming performances include Elisabeth Urtel (8/5) and Christine Schulz (8/12). Each recital is free. Visit www.agosiouxtrails.org for more information. 

Summer Sack Lunches: Community members can pick up a free sack lunch Sundays from 5-6 PM in the parking lot. We’ve already had a great deal of success with this program, serving meals until supplies run out. We are deeply grateful for your support. Thank you for continuing to fill the donation bin in the narthex, collecting bottled water, sandwich bags, lunch packs of chips, cookies and fruit cups. You can also financially support this new mission with online giving. Thank you for helping us to feed our neighborhood this summer! 

Stewardship Board Wants You

The Bethlehem Stewardship Board has a member vacancy which we would like to fill with an interested and dedicated BLC member. We seek someone who would like to participate in the following activities:

• Monthly thank-you notes to BLC members and others for their services to the church

• Planning and facilitating the 2025 fall stewardship campaign

• Promoting future legacy giving by BLC members

• Reading & learning about promoting stewardship & generosity for the congregation

• Getting to know and working with fellow BLC members

Contact Bob Ihrig at 507-388-1953 or robert.ihrig1@gmail.com with questions or if interested in joining this dynamic and active Bethlehem group. YOU can make a difference for Bethlehem!

---

Monthly mission partner

Our August Monthly Mission partner is Crossroads Campus Ministry at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Bethlehem has a long and close relationship with Crossroads and Pastor Jacie currently serves on their board. Led by Pastor Jenna Couch, the mission of Crossroads includes building community, deepening faith, growing in the understanding of God, and encouraging service. Crossroads is home to Campus Cupboard, a food support ministry, and offers Lunch 4-a-buck, a weekly meal prepared by local congregations. The majority of students utilizing these resources are international students. With increased costs and increased need, these resources are more important than ever. Your generous support is appreciated. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 
Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry is seeking passionate, dedicated individuals to serve on its Board of Directors. If you care about supporting college students in their faith journeys and want to help guide a vital ministry in our community, we’d love to hear from you! Board members provide leadership, vision, and support to the ministry’s mission on the Minnesota State Mankato campus.For more information or to express interest, please contact Pastor Jenna Couch at pastorjenna@gmail.com, or 507-200-8096.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Pat Nelson Lisa Hagen

Ron Orchard Jan Boyum Ross Hall

Mary Clark Scott Volz

Good Shepherd Lutheran in Wells Faith Lutheran in Dodge Center

Our Savior’s Lutheran in Owatonna Misigiri Lutheran in Tanzania

San Jose de Leon in Colombia Mazoezi Minyughe Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

August 10, Luke 12:32-40

August 17, Luke 12:49-56

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Hello Bethlehem,

It’s camp week! BLC Youth along with Pastor Jacie and Family Faith Formation Director, Anna, arrived safely at the Shores of St. Andrew last night, and while they had to spend some time in the storm shelter, there was a beautiful rainbow waiting for them afterwards. We pray for a safe, fun and blessed week at camp. 

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VBS 2025

We had a great week of VBS, with a record-breaking 54 kiddos in one day! We want to thank all of our volunteers, staff, donors and organizers from both Bethlehem and Centenary. Your hard work and love helped create an incredible week. The smiles speak for themselves. Thank you! Check out even more photos in the Facebook album.

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Announcements

Bethlehem will be hosting a Blood Drive on August 19. The Red Cross is offering an August Community Health initiative: during the month of August, the Red Cross will include A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes, on successful donations. No fasting is needed! Head to the Red Cross website to reserve your donation time slot. 

SUMMER ORGAN RECITALS Recitals move to Bethlehem this week! The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists presents its annual Summer Noontime Organ Recitals at 12:10 pm on Tuesdays. Come and enjoy performances by Kraig Windschitl (7/29), Elisabeth Urtel (8/5) and Christine Schulz (8/12). Each recital is free. Visit www.agosiouxtrails.org for more information. 

Bethlehem T-Shirt orders are open once again! For 10$ you can have your own shirt with Bethlehem's logo on the front and a rainbow heart on the back. A sign-up sheet is available at the Welcome Center. -Welcome & Inclusion Board

Summer Sack Lunches: Community members can pick up a free sack lunch Sundays from 5-6 PM in the parking lot. We’ve already had a great deal of success with this program, serving meals until supplies run out. We are deeply grateful for your support. Thank you for continuing to fill the donation bin in the narthex, collecting bottled water, sandwich bags, lunch packs of chips, cookies and fruit cups. You can also financially support this new mission with online giving. Thank you for helping us to feed our neighborhood this summer! 

Stewardship Board Wants You The Bethlehem Stewardship Board has a member vacancy which we would like to fill with an interested and dedicated BLC member. We seek someone who would like to participate in the following activities:

• Monthly thank-you notes to BLC members and others for their services to the church

• Planning and facilitating the 2025 fall stewardship campaign

• Promoting future legacy giving by BLC members

• Reading & learning about promoting stewardship & generosity for the congregation

• Getting to know and working with fellow BLC members

Contact Bob Ihrig at 507-388-1953 or robert.ihrig1@gmail.com with questions or if interested in joining this dynamic and active Bethlehem group. YOU can make a difference for Bethlehem!

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Monthly mission partner

Our July Monthly Mission partner is Lutheran World Relief. For 80 years LWR has been working to improve the lives of the poor, provide disaster relief and recovery, and create jobs and agricultural economies, with special interest in production and fair marketing of cocoa and coffee around the world. Their mission is to “end poverty, injustice, and human suffering in the world, until your love reaches every neighbor.” Bethlehem’s long relationship with LWR includes the production of school kits and quilts.  Our giving goal is $7,000. Thank you for supporting this important work. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 

Our August Monthly Mission partner will be Crossroads Campus Ministry at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Bethlehem has a long and close relationship with Crossroads and Pastor Jacie currently serves on their board. Led by Pastor Jenna Couch, the mission of Crossroads includes building community, deepening faith, growing in the understanding of God, and encouraging service. Crossroads is home to Campus Cupboard, a food support ministry, and offers Lunch 4-a-buck, a weekly meal prepared by local congregations. The majority of students utilizing these resources are international students. With increased costs and increased need, these resources are more important than ever. Your generous support is appreciated. 

Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry is seeking passionate, dedicated individuals to serve on its Board of Directors. If you care about supporting college students in their faith journeys and want to help guide a vital ministry in our community, we’d love to hear from you! Board members provide leadership, vision, and support to the ministry’s mission on the Minnesota State Mankato campus.For more information or to express interest, please contact Pastor Jenna Couch at pastorjenna@gmail.com, or 507-200-8096.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Pat Nelson Lisa Hagen

Ron Orchard Jan Boyum Ross Hall

Cross of Christ Lutheran in Houston United Lutheran in Red Wing

St. Luke Lutheran in Goodhue Our Savior’s Lutheran in Rochester

East Freeborn Lutheran in Albert Lea Mkiwa Lutheran in Tanzania

Maria Mission in Bucaramanga, Colombia

Lectionary Readings

August 3, Luke 12:13-21

August 10, Luke 12:32-40

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Hello Bethlehem,

It’s VBS week! The building is decorated, the games and crafts are set up; we’re just waiting for the fun to begin! Pray for our kiddos, leaders and volunteers as they embark on a week of fun, faith and fellowship. 

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Bethlehem will be hosting another Blood Drive on August 19. The Red Cross is offering an August Community Health initiative: during the month of August, the Red Cross will include A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes, on successful donations. No fasting is needed! Head to the Red Cross website to reserve your donation time slot. 

Bethlehem’s Welcome & Inclusion Board invites you to participate in the 2025 Pride Parade at 11:15 am on Saturday, September 6, 2025. We also need volunteers to staff a table in Riverfront Park from 1:00-4:00 pm that day as well. A sign-up sheet is available at the Welcome Center.

SUMMER ORGAN RECITALS The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists presents its annual Summer Noontime Organ Recitals at 12:10 pm on Tuesdays in Hutchinson and Mankato. Upcoming performances at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 222 Pfau St., Mankato, include John Baumann (7/22). The series then moves to Bethlehem for performances by Kraig Windschitl (7/29), Elisabeth Urtel (8/5) and Christine Schulz (8/12). Each recital is free. Visit www.agosiouxtrails.org for more information.

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ANNOUCEMENTS

Bethlehem T-Shirt orders are open once again! For 10$ you can have your own shirt with Bethlehem's logo on the front and a rainbow heart on the back. A sign-up sheet is available at the Welcome Center. -Welcome & Inclusion Board

Bethlehem is seeking another Weekend/Evening Janitor to join our team. Read more about the job description and apply online.

SUMMER ORGAN RECITALS The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists presents its annual Summer Noontime Organ Recitals at 12:10 pm on Tuesdays in Hutchinson and Mankato. Upcoming performances at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 222 Pfau St., Mankato, include Mark DeGarmeaux (7/15), and John Baumann (7/22). The series then moves to Bethlehem for performances by Kraig Windschitl (7/29), Elisabeth Urtel (8/5) and Christine Schulz (8/12). Each recital is free. Visit www.agosiouxtrails.org for more information.

Summer Sack Lunches: Community members can pick up a free sack lunch Sundays from 5-6 PM in the parking lot. We’ve already had a great deal of success with this program, serving meals until supplies run out. We are deeply grateful for your support. Thank you for continuing to fill the donation bin in the narthex, collecting bottled water, sandwich bags, lunch packs of chips, cookies and fruit cups. You can also financially support this new mission with online giving. Thank you for helping us to feed our neighborhood this summer! 

Stewardship Board Wants You The Bethlehem Stewardship Board has a member vacancy which we would like to fill with an interested and dedicated BLC member. We seek someone who would like to participate in the following activities:

• Monthly thank-you notes to BLC members and others for their services to the church

• Planning and facilitating the 2025 fall stewardship campaign

• Promoting future legacy giving by BLC members

• Reading & learning about promoting stewardship & generosity for the congregation

• Getting to know and working with fellow BLC members

Contact Bob Ihrig at 507-388-1953 or robert.ihrig1@gmail.com with questions or if interested in joining this dynamic and active Bethlehem group. YOU can make a difference for Bethlehem!

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Monthly mission partner

Our July Monthly Mission partner is Lutheran World Relief. For 80 years LWR has been working to improve the lives of the poor, provide disaster relief and recovery, and create jobs and agricultural economies, with special interest in production and fair marketing of cocoa and coffee around the world. Their mission is to “end poverty, injustice, and human suffering in the world, until your love reaches every neighbor.” Bethlehem’s long relationship with LWR includes the production of school kits and quilts.  Our giving goal is $7,000. Thank you for supporting this important work. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Pat Nelson Lisa Hagen

Ron Orchard Jim Dahlvang

The family & friends of Norman Knowles

Trinity Lutheran in Hayfield Bethlehem Lutheran in Lanesboro

Our Savior’s Lutheran in Cleveland Amani Lutheran in Tanzania

Mampanta Lutheran in Tanzania Puma Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

July 27, Luke 11:1-13

August 3, Luke 12:13-21

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Hello Bethlehem,

Summer is in full swing! BLC’s Bible’s & Brews enjoyed an evening at the MoonDogs last week.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Connections Shelter will hold a Community Listening Session in Grounds for Joy Wednesday, July 16, from 6:30-8:00 PM to discuss rezoning the property on 119 State Street for use as their daytime drop-in center and offices. Questions can be directed to jenn@connectionsshelder.org

Bethlehem will be hosting another Blood Drive on August 19. The Red Cross is offering an August Community Health initiative: during the month of August, the Red Cross will include A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes, on successful donations. No fasting is needed! Head to the Red Cross website to reserve your donation time slot. 

Bethlehem’s Welcome & Inclusion Board invites you to participate in the 2025 Pride Parade at 11:15 am on Saturday, September 6, 2025. We also need volunteers to staff a table in Riverfront Park from 1:00-4:00 pm that day as well. A sign-up sheet is available at the Welcome Center.

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Family faith Formation

VBS 2025 is next week! We’re looking forward to a great week of fun, faith, and fellowship! VBS is geared towards kids 3-years-old thru 6th grade. Whether you're a member of Bethlehem, Centenary, a member of the Mankato-area community, we'd love to have you join us July 21-24. Register online ASAP. Dinner will be served from 5-6PM and VBS programming will run from 6-7:30pm. We can’t wait to see you! 

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ANNOUCEMENTS

Bethlehem T-Shirt orders are open once again! For 10$ you can have your own shirt with Bethlehem's logo on the front and a rainbow heart on the back. A sign-up sheet is available at the Welcome Center. -Welcome & Inclusion Board

Bethlehem is seeking another Weekend/Evening Janitor to join our team. Read more about the job description and apply online.

SUMMER ORGAN RECITALS The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists presents its annual Summer Noontime Organ Recitals at 12:10 pm on Tuesdays in Hutchinson and Mankato. Upcoming performances at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 222 Pfau St., Mankato, include Mark DeGarmeaux (7/15), and John Baumann (7/22). The series then moves to Bethlehem for performances by Kraig Windschitl (7/29), Elisabeth Urtel (8/5) and Christine Schulz (8/12). Each recital is free. Visit www.agosiouxtrails.org for more information.

Summer Sack Lunches: Community members can pick up a free sack lunch Sundays from 5-6 PM in the parking lot. We’ve already had a great deal of success with this program, serving meals until supplies run out. We are deeply grateful for your support. Thank you for continuing to fill the donation bin in the narthex, collecting bottled water, sandwich bags, lunch packs of chips, cookies and fruit cups. You can also financially support this new mission with online giving. Thank you for helping us to feed our neighborhood this summer! 

Stewardship Board Wants You

The Bethlehem Stewardship Board has a member vacancy which we would like to fill with an interested and dedicated BLC member. We seek someone who would like to participate in the following activities:

•Monthly thank-you notes to BLC members and others for their services to the church

•Planning and facilitating the 2025 fall stewardship campaign

•Promoting future legacy giving by BLC members

•Reading & learning about promoting stewardship & generosity for the congregation

•Getting to know and working with fellow BLC members

Contact Bob Ihrig at 507-388-1953 or robert.ihrig1@gmail.com with questions or if interested in joining this dynamic and active Bethlehem group. YOU can make a difference for Bethlehem!

---

Monthly mission partner

Our July Monthly Mission partner is Lutheran World Relief. For 80 years LWR has been working to improve the lives of the poor, provide disaster relief and recovery, and create jobs and agricultural economies, with special interest in production and fair marketing of cocoa and coffee around the world. Their mission is to “end poverty, injustice, and human suffering in the world, until your love reaches every neighbor.” Bethlehem’s long relationship with LWR includes the production of school kits and quilts. 

Right now, Lutheran World Relief is deploying resources to assist with recovery efforts after devastating flooding in Texas. 

Our giving goal is $7,000. Thank you for supporting this important work. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Pat Nelson Susan Brown

Lisa Hagen Ron Orchard

First English Lutheran in Cannon Falls Elstad Lutheran in Peterson

Jackson Lake Lutheran in Amboy Ihanja Lutheran in Tanzania

Mission of San Juan in Bucaramanga, Colombia Shelui Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

July 20, Luke 10:38-42

July 27, Luke 11:1-13

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Hello Bethlehem,

VBS 2025 is just weeks away! We’re looking forward to a great week of fun and fellowship. VBS is geared towards kids 3-years-old thru 6th grade. Whether you're a member of Bethlehem, Centenary, a member of the Mankato-area community, we'd love to have you join us July 21-24. Register online today. Dinner will be served from 5-6PM and VBS programming will run from 6-7:30pm. Youth and adult volunteers are needed! Sign up online to volunteer; we will host a volunteer training session this Sunday, July 13, at noon. We can’t wait to see you at VBS 2025!

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Announcements

Connections Shelter will hold a Community Listening Session in Grounds for Joy Wednesday, July 16, from 6:30-8:00 PM to discuss rezoning the property on 119 State Street for use as their daytime drop-in center and offices. Questions can be directed to jenn@connectionsshelder.org

We’re hiring! Bethlehem is seeking another Weekend/Evening Janitor to join our team. Read more about the job description and apply online.

SUMMER ORGAN RECITALS The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists presents its annual Summer Noontime Organ Recitals at 12:10 pm on Tuesdays in Hutchinson and Mankato. In July, the series begins the month at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 222 Pfau St., Mankato, with performances by Nicholas Liese (7/8), Mark DeGarmeaux (7/15), and John Baumann (7/22).  The series then moves to Bethlehem for performances by Kraig Windschitl (7/29), Elisabeth Urtel (8/5) and Christine Schulz (8/12).   Each recital is free. Visit www.agosiouxtrails.org for more information.

Bethlehem has launched a new Summer Sack Lunch program. Community members can pick up a free sack lunch Sundays from 5-6 PM in the parking lot. We’ve already had a great deal of success with this program, serving meals until supplies run out. We are deeply grateful for your support. Thank you for continuing to fill the donation bin in the narthex, collecting bottled water, sandwich bags, lunch packs of chips, cookies and fruit cups. You can also financially support this new mission with online giving. Thank you for helping us to feed our neighborhood this summer!

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A Letter from crossroads campus ministry

Dear Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 

We need your help now more than ever. 

We don’t say this lightly: due to unexpected circumstances, our ministry is currently in financial trouble. The support we give to students and community members in times of crisis, the spiritual guidance we offer, the community we have built, Lunch-for-a-Buck, and our beloved Campus Cupboard is at risk. 

Every day, we see the difference this ministry makes. Students come to a place they know and love. Jesus reminds us in Luke 11 to feed the hungry, and this is what we strive to do every day. Through Campus Cupboard and Lunch-for-a-Buck, we do what Jesus taught us. We do the work of the Gospel.  Even during the summer, we remain a vibrant place for fellowship, love, and grace. 

We have a plan in place to sustain our ministry long-term. But we cannot do our work throughout the summer without your help. We need to raise $30,000 by August 1st to sustain the ministry through the summer. 

We know this is an ambitious goal. But we also know that God is faithful. Your gifts, whether it’s $5 or $1,000, will help us keep showing up for students who desperately need our help. We know you care about the next generation of leaders, thinkers and faithful witnesses. Now is the time to act. Help us keep this vital ministry alive. 

Click here to support our ministry

Click here to support our Day-in-the-life fundraiser 

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Monthly mission partner

Our July Monthly Mission partner is Lutheran World Relief. For 80 years LWR has been working to improve the lives of the poor, provide disaster relief and recovery, and create jobs and agricultural economies, with special interest in production and fair marketing of cocoa and coffee around the world. Their mission is to “end poverty, injustice, and human suffering in the world, until your love reaches every neighbor.” Bethlehem’s long relationship with LWR includes the production of school kits and quilts. 

Right now, Lutheran World Relief is deploying resources to assist with recovery efforts after devastating flooding in Texas. 

Our giving goal is $7,000. Thank you for supporting this important work. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Pat Nelson Sheila Stevensen

Susan Brown Lisa Hagen Ron Orchard

The family & friends of Dorothy Knedel

Greenfield Lutheran in Harmony Redeemer Lutheran in Alden

Saint Paul Lutheran in Pine Island San Juan Lutheran in Colombia

Sepuka Lutheran in Tanzania Gumanga Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

July 13, Luke 10:25-37

July 20, Luke 10:38-42

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Hello Bethlehem,

We had an awesome week of Service & Sun! 20 kids and adults from Bethlehem, First Presbyterian, Centenary and Christ the King teamed up for service projects in the community and fun in the sun. They visited Global Health Ministries, Connections, CADA House, and MY Place for service projects, and made time for mini golf, swimming at Spring Lake, Mom & Pop’s ice cream and an afternoon at the movies. Thank you to the chaperones who kept our youth safe during the week; it was our biggest group yet and such a joy to make an impact in the community!

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Announcements

Sean and Marian Mallory invite you to join them in celebrating their 35th Wedding Anniversary next Sunday! BLC friends are invited to their open house next Sunday, July 6th at 2:00 PM in Grounds for Joy. The happy couple has requested NO GIFTS; your presence is enough. If you feel moved to give something they ask that in lieu of gifts, please donate instead to Metavivor (research for metastatic cancer) or to the church. Come and join the celebration! 

We’re hiring! Bethlehem is seeking another Weekend/Evening Janitor to join our team. Read more about the job description and apply online by June 30th. 

SUMMER ORGAN RECITALS The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists presents its annual Summer Noontime Organ Recitals at 12:10 pm on Tuesdays in Hutchinson and Mankato. In June, the series begins at Peace Lutheran Church, 400 Franklin Street, Hutchinson with this week’s performance by Charles Luedtke (6/24). In July, the series begins the month at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 222 Pfau St., Mankato, with performances by David Mertesdorf (7/1),  Nicholas Liese (7/8), Mark DeGarmeaux (7/15), and John Baumann (7/22).  The series then moves to Bethlehem for performances by Kraig Windschitl (7/29), Elisabeth Urtel (8/5) and Christine Schulz (8/12).   Each recital is free. Visit www.agosiouxtrails.org for more information.

Bethlehem has launched a new Summer Sack Lunch program. Community members can pick up a free sack lunch Sundays from 5-6 PM in the parking lot. We’ve already had a great deal of success with this program, serving meals until supplies run out. We are deeply grateful for your support. Thank you for continuing to fill the donation bin in the narthex, collecting bottled water, sandwich bags, lunch packs of chips, cookies and fruit cups. You can also financially support this new mission with online giving. Thank you for helping us to feed our neighborhood this summer! 

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Family faith formation

VBS is set for July 21-24. Register online today. Dinner will be served from 5-6PM and VBS programming will run from 6-7:30pm. Youth and adult volunteers are needed! Sign up online to volunteer. The VBS Giving Tree is in the narthex with items needed for VBS this summer. Please feel free to take a leaf and donate an item on the list, or shop our online Amazon Wish List. Thank you!

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A Letter from crossroads campus ministry

Dear Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 

We need your help now more than ever. 

We don’t say this lightly: due to unexpected circumstances, our ministry is currently in financial trouble. The support we give to students and community members in times of crisis, the spiritual guidance we offer, the community we have built, Lunch-for-a-Buck, and our beloved Campus Cupboard is at risk. 

Every day, we see the difference this ministry makes. Students come to a place they know and love. Jesus reminds us in Luke 11 to feed the hungry, and this is what we strive to do every day. Through Campus Cupboard and Lunch-for-a-Buck, we do what Jesus taught us. We do the work of the Gospel.  Even during the summer, we remain a vibrant place for fellowship, love, and grace. 

We have a plan in place to sustain our ministry long-term. But we cannot do our work throughout the summer without your help. We need to raise $30,000 by August 1st to sustain the ministry through the summer. 

We know this is an ambitious goal. But we also know that God is faithful. Your gifts, whether it’s $5 or $1,000, will help us keep showing up for students who desperately need our help. We know you care about the next generation of leaders, thinkers and faithful witnesses. Now is the time to act. Help us keep this vital ministry alive. 

Click here to support our ministry

Click here to support our Day-in-the-life fundraiser 

---

Monthly mission partner

LAST CALL! Our June Monthly Mission is the Greater Mankato Diversity Council. The GMDC is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to building a stronger, more connected community through education and engagement. They provide diversity education in K-12 schools, corporate and organizational training, and community events that foster understanding and respect. They promote meaningful conversations and lifelong learning. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 

Our July Monthly Mission partner is Lutheran World Relief. For 80 years LWR has been working to improve the lives of the poor, provide disaster relief and recovery, and create jobs and agricultural economies, with special interest in production and fair marketing of cocoa and coffee around the world. Their mission is to “end poverty, injustice, and human suffering in the world, until your love reaches every neighbor.” Bethlehem’s long relationship with LWR includes the production of school kits and quilts. Our giving goal is $7,000. Thank you for supporting this important work. 

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Pat Nelson Betty Groth Sheila Stevensen   

The Family & Friends of Dorothy Knedel 

Grace Lutheran in Waseca First Lutheran in Albert Lea

Central Freeborn Lutheran in Albert Lea Our Savior’ s Lutheran in Austin

Mansfield Lutheran in Alden Ngimu Lutheran in Tanzania

Igengu Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

July 6, Luke 10:1-11; 6-20

July 13, Luke 10:25-37

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Hello Bethlehem,

Service & Sun began this morning at Global Health Ministries! Pray for our youth and guides as they set out for a week of service projects and fun in the community.

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Announcements

We’re hiring! Bethlehem is seeking another Weekend/Evening Janitor to join our team. Read more about the job description and apply online by June 30th. 

SUMMER ORGAN RECITALS The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists presents its annual Summer Noontime Organ Recitals at 12:10 pm on Tuesdays in Hutchinson and Mankato. In June, the series begins at Peace Lutheran Church, 400 Franklin Street, Hutchinson with this week’s performance by Charles Luedtke (6/24). In July, the series begins the month at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 222 Pfau St., Mankato, with performances by David Mertesdorf (7/1),  Nicholas Liese (7/8), Mark DeGarmeaux (7/15), and John Baumann (7/22).  The series then moves to Bethlehem for performances by Kraig Windschitl (7/29), Elisabeth Urtel (8/5) and Christine Schulz (8/12).   Each recital is free. Visit www.agosiouxtrails.org for more information.

Bethlehem has launched a new Summer Sack Lunch program. Community members can pick up a free sack lunch Sundays from 5-6 PM in the parking lot. We’ve already had a great deal of success with this program, serving meals until supplies run out. We are deeply grateful for your support. Thank you for continuing to fill the donation bin in the narthex, collecting bottled water, sandwich bags, lunch packs of chips, cookies and fruit cups. You can also financially support this new mission with online giving. Thank you for helping us to feed our neighborhood this summer! 

---

Family faith formation

VBS is set for July 21-24. Register online today. Dinner will be served from 5-6PM and VBS programming will run from 6-7:30pm. Youth and adult volunteers are needed! Sign up online to volunteer. The VBS Giving Tree is in the narthex with items needed for VBS this summer. Please feel free to take a leaf and donate an item on the list, or shop our online Amazon Wish List. Thank you!

---

A Letter from crossroads campus ministry

Dear Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 

We need your help now more than ever. 

We don’t say this lightly: due to unexpected circumstances, our ministry is currently in financial trouble. The support we give to students and community members in times of crisis, the spiritual guidance we offer, the community we have built, Lunch-for-a-Buck, and our beloved Campus Cupboard is at risk. 

Every day, we see the difference this ministry makes. Students come to a place they know and love. Jesus reminds us in Luke 11 to feed the hungry, and this is what we strive to do every day. Through Campus Cupboard and Lunch-for-a-Buck, we do what Jesus taught us. We do the work of the Gospel.  Even during the summer, we remain a vibrant place for fellowship, love, and grace. 

We have a plan in place to sustain our ministry long-term. But we cannot do our work throughout the summer without your help. We need to raise $30,000 by August 1st to sustain the ministry through the summer. 

We know this is an ambitious goal. But we also know that God is faithful. Your gifts, whether it’s $5 or $1,000, will help us keep showing up for students who desperately need our help. We know you care about the next generation of leaders, thinkers and faithful witnesses. Now is the time to act. Help us keep this vital ministry alive. 

Click here to support our ministry

Click here to support our Day-in-the-life fundraiser 

---

Thank you

Thank you for sponsoring the Entertainment at A Midsummer Soiree for Connections Shelter! We were thrilled to see so many Bethlehem faces at the event last Friday. Thank you for your steadfast support of our friends and neighbors at Connections.

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Monthly mission partner

Our June Monthly Mission is the Greater Mankato Diversity Council. The GMDC is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to building a stronger, more connected community through education and engagement. They provide diversity education in K-12 schools, corporate and organizational training, and community events that foster understanding and respect. They promote meaningful conversations and lifelong learning. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Pat Nelson Dorothy Knedel Susan Brown

Faith Lutheran in Janesville Sudanese Dinka Community at Grace Lutheran in Austin

Union Prairie Lutheran in Lanesboro Kinampanda Lutheran in Tanzania

Mgori Lutheran in Tanzania Sayuni Mipilo Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

June 29, Luke 9:51-62

July 6, Luke 10:1-11; 6-20

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Hello Bethlehem,

Juneteenth, or Freedom day, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans on June 19, 1865. Our June monthly mission partner, the Greater Mankato Diversity Council, invites you to celebrate at MSU, Mankato from 3-6PM. This year’s theme is “Honor the Past, Fight for the Future.” Bethlehem offices will be closed on June 19th as we recognize this holiday.

Fantasy meets philanthropy! Support Connections Shelter at A Midsummer Soiree, 7-9PM on June 20th in the Gustavus Arboretum. Enjoy musical entertainment and gourmet treats in a fairytale atmosphere inspired by the mystical forests of Shakespeare’s play. Bethlehem is sponsoring the Entertainment. Tickets are now available. Tickets are sold individually, or grab your friends, family, coworkers or BLC friends and form a table! 

We’re hiring! Bethlehem is seeking another Weekend/Evening Janitor to join our team. Read more about the job description and apply online by June 30th. 

SUMMER ORGAN RECITALS The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists presents its annual Summer Noontime Organ Recitals at 12:10 pm on Tuesdays in Hutchinson and Mankato.  In June, the series begins at Peace Lutheran Church, 400 Franklin Street, Hutchinson with performances by Tom Andrews (6/10), Chad Winterfeldt (6/17) and Charles Luedtke (6/24). In July, the series begins the month at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 222 Pfau St., Mankato, with performances by David Mertesdorf (7/1),  Nicholas Liese (7/8), Mark DeGarmeaux (7/15), and John Baumann (7/22).  The series then moves to Bethlehem for performances by Kraig Windschitl (7/29), Elisabeth Urtel (8/5) and Christine Schulz (8/12).   Each recital is free. Visit www.agosiouxtrails.org for more information.

Bethlehem has launched a new Summer Sack Lunch program. Community members can pick up a free sack lunch Sundays from 5-6 PM in the parking lot. We’ve already had a great deal of success with this program, serving meals until supplies runs out. We are deeply grateful for your support. Thank you for continuing to fill the donation bin in the narthex, collecting bottled water, sandwich bags, lunch packs of chips, cookies and fruit cups. You can also financially support this new mission with online giving. Thank you for helping us to feed our neighborhood this summer!

---

Family faith formation

VBS is set for July 21-24. Register online today. Dinner will be served from 5-6PM and VBS programming will run from 6-7:30pm. Youth and adult volunteers are needed! Sign up online to volunteer. The VBS Giving Tree is in the narthex with items needed for VBS this summer. Please feel free to take a leaf and donate an item on the list, or shop our online Amazon Wish List. Thank you!

Sign up for Service & Sun ASAP! Service & Sun begins on Monday!

---

A Letter from crossroads campus ministry

Dear Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 

We need your help now more than ever. 

We don’t say this lightly: due to unexpected circumstances, our ministry is currently in financial trouble. The support we give to students and community members in times of crisis, the spiritual guidance we offer, the community we have built, Lunch-for-a-Buck, and our beloved Campus Cupboard is at risk. 

Every day, we see the difference this ministry makes. Students come to a place they know and love. Jesus reminds us in Luke 11 to feed the hungry, and this is what we strive to do every day. Through Campus Cupboard and Lunch-for-a-Buck, we do what Jesus taught us. We do the work of the Gospel.  Even during the summer, we remain a vibrant place for fellowship, love, and grace. 

We have a plan in place to sustain our ministry long-term. But we cannot do our work throughout the summer without your help. We need to raise $30,000 by August 1st to sustain the ministry through the summer. 

We know this is an ambitious goal. But we also know that God is faithful. Your gifts, whether it’s $5 or $1,000, will help us keep showing up for students who desperately need our help. We know you care about the next generation of leaders, thinkers and faithful witnesses. Now is the time to act. Help us keep this vital ministry alive. 

Click here to support our ministry

Click here to support our Day-in-the-life fundraiser 

---

Monthly mission partner

Our June Monthly Mission is the Greater Mankato Diversity Council. The GMDC is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to building a stronger, more connected community through education and engagement. They provide diversity education in K-12 schools, corporate and organizational training, and community events that foster understanding and respect. They promote meaningful conversations and lifelong learning. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Pat Nelson Dorothy Knedel

LeSueur River Lutheran in New Richland First Evangelical Lutheran in Kenyon

St. Michael Lutheran in Waltham Kijota Lutheran in Tanzania

Mazoezi Mughamo Lutheran in Tanzania Mazoezi Nkhoiree Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

June 22, Luke 8:26-39

June 29, Luke 9:51-62

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