Growing in Christ, Loving our Neighbors, Serving God's world.

the BLC blog

news & updates

BLC Weekly, June 2

Hello Bethlehem,

Congratulations, BLC scholars! Endowment Fund Scholarships were distributed during worship yesterday. 15 Bethlehem members were awarded scholarships this year. We wish you well on your academic journeys!


The Community Garden continues to grow! Stop by the Liberty Street side of the BLC campus to see what’s sprouting.

Announcements

All Boards Night is this evening. Incoming and outgoing board members, join us in Grounds for Joy tonight at 5:30pm as we plan for the year ahead and hear from special guest, Pastor Emily Carson from the Office of the Bishop. 

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 need your help! There is a donation bin in the narthex for bottled water, sandwich bags, lunch packs of chips, cookies and fruit cups, or you can financially support this new mission with online giving. Help us feed our neighbors throughout the summer. 

Bibles & Brews meets 6PM at Weggy’s on Thursday, June 12th. Join Pastor Jacie for casual conversations on faith and culture. 

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! 


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. Stay tuned for updates: our Amazon Wishlist will be available this week. Thank you! 

Sign up for Service & Sun 


Thank you

Crossroads Campus Ministry offers its deepest appreciation and thanks to Bethlehem Lutheran Church and the volunteers who prepared, delivered, and served delicious hot meals to hungry college students through our Lunch-for-a-Buck program during the 2024-2025 school year. We extend a special thank you to faithful servants, Jan Blaisdell, Kathy Piehl, Sue Larsen, Susan Brown, Zoe Blaisdell, Alex Blaisdell, DeAnn Bennett, Gordy Larson, Gary Petersen, Dennis Sandersfeld, Jason Bruns, Jack Halvorson, Bob Ihrig, Roger Haug and Pastor Jay Dahlvang for taking time out of their busy schedules to ensure that no student left Crossroads hungry. Lunch-for-a-Buck proved to be very popular this year. Your congregation was responsible for serving on seven Tuesdays throughout the year. Your volunteers fed 294 individuals and collected $327.97 in donations that went right back into purchasing the salads, beverages and table supplies for subsequent lunches. 

Crossroads Campus Ministry was privileged to host 30 lunches throughout the school year, and due to the generosity of Bethlehem Lutheran Church and other area congregations, a total of 1,183 people were fed and $1,172.92 in donations was collected to ensure that we can keep feeding students into the future. We look forward to continuing Lunch-for-a-Buck after Fall Term begins in August and hope that Bethlehem will partner with us again to feed Minnesota State-Mankato students. God bless you for your faithfulness and support of this important and impactful ministry. We couldn’t do it without you!

Grace and Peace, 

Pastor Jenna Couch, Campus Pastor

Teri Herder-Blahnik, Crossroads Office Manager


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. 


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Gail Ihrig Pat Nelson

Lois Wintersteen Dorothy Knedel Gatchang Duach Nikolas Perez

The family & friends of Jerry Johnson, Norm Knowles & Marilyn Price

Sudanese Dinka Community at Zumbro Lutheran in Rochester Trinity Lutheran in Blue Earth

Bear Creek Lutheran in Grand Meadow Holden Lutheran in Kenyon

Asivida Ministry in Colombia Projecting My Future Ministry in Colombia

Lectionary Readings

June 8, Acts 2:1-21; John 14:8-17

June 15, John 16:12-15


BLC Weekly, May 26

Hello Bethlehem,

Bethlehem is launching a new Summer Sack Lunch program. Community members can pick up a free sack lunch Sundays from 5-6 PM in the parking lot beginning June 1. We need your help! There is a donation bin in the narthex for bottled water, sandwich bags, lunch packs of chips, cookies and fruit cups, or you can financially support this new mission with online giving. Help us feed our neighbors throughout the summer. 


Announcements

Synod Assembly Volunteers Needed!

12 non-voting members are needed to assist as the Ballot tellers for our election this weekend. These tellers must attend the assembly throughout the election and are free to leave once voting is finished. Volunteers will be trained and fed. If interested please let the office know so we can pass your information along to the Synod. The Synod Assembly will take place this weekend, Friday the 30th and Saturday the 31st. Thank you for serving our ELCA Synod!

Endowment Fund Scholarships will be awarded next Sunday, June 1 during worship. 

All Boards Night is scheduled for 5:30 PM on Monday, June 2nd. Incoming and outgoing BLC Board members, please RSVP to blchurch@blcmankato.org to let us know if you will be joining us. 

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!


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. Thank you! 

Sign up for Service & Sun 


Monthly mission partner

Our May monthly mission partner is House of Hope. For over 50 years they have provided services for those struggling with substance abuse disorders. They contract with the Blue Earth County Drug Court and have added mental health services to their programming so as to better serve clients with co-occurring disorders. Thank you for supporting this important mission in our community. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Gail Ihrig Pat Nelson

Norm Knowles Lois Wintersteen

The family & friends of Jerry Johnson

Grace Lutheran in Mankato Christ Lutheran in Byron

West Freeborn Lutheran in Hartland Nkuhi Lutheran in Tanzania

Vida Nueva Lutheran in Colombia Mkalama Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

June 1, John 17:20-26

June 8, Acts 2:1-21; John 14:8-17


BLC Weekly, May 19

Hello Bethlehem,

Thank you to our landscaping volunteers for your hard work this weekend! Between the new mulch and the sanctuary cleaning volunteers last week, Bethlehem is looking lovely! Thank you for caring for your church building. 


congratulations blc graduating seniors!


Family faith formation

VBS is set for July 21-24. Dinner will be served from 5-6PM and VBS programming will run from 6-7:30pm. Youth and adult volunteers are needed! Contact Kaitlin or Anna to get involved. 

All Flamingo Flocking spots have been filled! Thank you for supporting the youth trip to the Boundary Waters with our annual Flamingo Flocking Fundraiser! 

Sign up for Service & Sun 


Announcements

Endowment Fund Scholarship Recipients received an email last week to announce they received their scholarship. Scholars, please attend worship on June 1 as scholarships will be awarded during 9:30 AM worship. 

The Lincoln Park Neighborhood Association meets tonight at 6:30pm in Grounds for Joy. As part of the community, BLC members are always welcomed to attend these meetings and engage with our neighbors. 

All Boards Night is scheduled for 5:30 PM on Monday, June 2nd. Incoming and outgoing BLC Board members, please RSVP to blchurch@blcmankato.org to let us know if you will be joining us. 

Synod Assembly Volunteers Needed! 12 non-voting members are needed to assist as the Ballot tellers for our election. These tellers must attend the assembly throughout the election and are free to leave once voting is finished. Volunteers will be trained and fed. If interested please let the office know so we can pass your information along to the Synod. Thank you for serving our ELCA Synod!

Connections Shelter Fundraiser Update

The 2025 Connections Shelter was cancelled due to a lack of community team support. This was disappointing news to Team Bethlehem since we had already raised almost $2,500 for this major fundraiser.

However, there is still good news for Connections Shelter. They are planning a new fundraiser - A Midsummer Soiree - on June 20 at the Arboratem at Gustavus Adolphus College. See attached flyer for details. We have arranged with Connections to serve as the Entertainment Sponsor by providing $3,000. See attached sponsor flyer. We will be recognized with the musician group scheduled for the evening. What great PR for Bethlehem and our partnership with Connections!

We only need $557.48 to reach our $3,000 goal. Cash or check donations can be given to Bob Ihrig. Make checks payable to Connections Shelter. Contact Bob with questions about this new opportunity to support Connections!


Thank you

Dear Friends,

Your cards and heartfelt messages have been appreciated over these many weeks. The compression fracture in my spine has presented challenges. I will begin to have Evenity injections once a month to stimulate bone growth. We hope that medical treatment will make a real difference! Bob continues to be my support with much TLC. Thank you all!  

-Gail Ihrig

The Blood Drive on May 8th in GFJ was a great success. 35 Units were collected and donors again enjoyed Eunice Sassenberg's delicious cookies after donating. BLC members Carol Malone, Holly Nevills and Mary Bliesmer volunteered their time and several other members donated blood. The next Blood Drive at BLC will be August 19th.

Rae Allan at Pathstone Living would like to Thank everyone who came to help celebrate her 100th Birthday.  Also a big Thank You for the many cards and gifts.  Blessings to you all.


Monthly mission partner

Our May monthly mission partner is House of Hope. For over 50 years they have provided services for those struggling with substance abuse disorders. They contract with the Blue Earth County Drug Court and have added mental health services to their programming so as to better serve clients with co-occurring disorders. Thank you for supporting this important mission in our community. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Pat Nelson Norm Knowles

Lois Wintersteen Jerry Johnson

First Lutheran in Red Wing St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran in Lewiston

Aurora Lutheran in Owatonna Ikungi Lutheran in Tanzania

St. John Mwando Lutheran in Tanzania Mang’onyi Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

May 25, John 14:23-29

June 1, John 17:20-26


BLC Weekly, May 12

Hello Bethlehem,

We had a wonderful time at the Year-End Picnic last Wednesday. Wednesday evening programming will return in the fall. Thank YOU for making this another great program year of faith and fellowship. We are switching over to the summer worship schedule and looking forward to camp, Service & Sun, VBS, and all the other fun activities that come with this season. Keep an eye out for more details in our Summer Catalog, heading to your mailbox soon. 


This week

Tomorrow: It’s time for Church Cleaning Part Two! Join us Tuesday, May 13, at 9:00 a.m. Volunteers are needed to help wipe down the pews and hymnals. Please bring a pail and cloth; the Murphy cleaner will be provided. Thank you! 

Come and Celebrate with Rae! Rae Allen will turn 100 on May 13, and you are invited to celebrate with her. The Bethlehem Care Ministry is hosting a 100th party for Rae at 2 p.m. that day at Pathstone. All are welcome! 

Final Adult Forum - North Mankato & Mankato News Join us on Sunday for this spring's final adult forum. We will hear the latest news about issues, decisions and actions in Mankato and North Mankato from city administrators Susan Arntz and Kevin McCann. Share your questions and concerns with them and other members of the Bethlehem congregation. We look forward to seeing you on Sunday! All are welcome! Coffee and donuts served! It just doesn't get better than this!

This Sunday we will celebrate our graduating seniors during worship. 


Family faith formation

The Flamingo Flocking Fundraiser is underway! Sign up to flock the yards of friends, family or foes with these flamboyant birds. $30 sends the flock, $10 gets your flamingo insurance to make your yard unflockable! Proceeds help send BLC youth to the Boundary Waters this summer. Happy flocking! 

VBS is set for July 21-24. Dinner will be served 5-6 pm; VBS programming is from 6-7:30 pm. Youth and adult volunteers needed! Contact Kaitlin or Anna to get involved. 


Announcements

Synod Assembly Volunteers Needed!

12 non-voting members are needed to assist as the Ballot tellers for our election. These tellers must attend the assembly throughout the election and are free to leave once voting is finished. Volunteers will be trained and fed. If interested please let the office know so we can pass your information along to the Synod. Thank you for serving our ELCA Synod!

Join the BLC Landscaping Crew! Help keep Bethlehem beautiful. Your next volunteer opportunity is coming up on May 17th at 9:00 AM. Join Sarah Morgan and the rest of the Landscaping Committee in a clean up and adding fresh mulch to the grounds.

Connections Shelter Fundraiser Update

The 2025 Connections Shelter was cancelled due to a lack of community team support. This was disappointing news to Team Bethlehem since we had already raised almost $2,500 for this major fundraiser.

However, there is still good news for Connections Shelter. They are planning a new fundraiser - A Midsummer Soiree - on June 20 at the Arboratem at Gustavus Adolphus College. See attached flyer for details. We have arranged with Connections to serve as the Entertainment Sponsor by providing $3,000. See attached sponsor flyer. We will be recognized with the musician group scheduled for the evening. What great PR for Bethlehem and our partnership with Connections!

We only need $557.48 to reach our $3,000 goal. Cash or check donations can be given to Bob Ihrig. Make checks payable to Connections Shelter. Contact Bob with questions about this new opportunity to support Connections!


Thank you

The end of Spring Term is here. We have always been thrilled to welcome students, friends, and volunteers to Crossroads, and we feel tremendously 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 6th, faithful servants Jan Blaisdell, Kathy Piehl, and Sue Larsen prepared and served a delicious Finals Week lunch of beef and meatless lasagna, Italian bread, organic spring mix salad, and cookies to 38 hungry lunch-goers. They also collected $21.25 in donations that will be used to purchase the salad supplies, beverages, dinnerware, and other items for subsequent lunches in the fall.

Over the 2024-2025 school year, Lunch For-a-Buck was served on 30 Tuesdays by 54 unique volunteers from eight different congregations. They fed a total of 1,183 individuals and raised $1,172.92 in donations. Bethlehem's 16 volunteers prepared and/or served lunch on seven of those Tuesdays to 294 people while raising $325.97 in donations! God bless you for your generosity and for supporting the students and our ministry at Crossroads. Please know that we could not do what we do without your faithful support. We look forward to seeing you in the fall as we continue our work of feeding the bodies and souls of all who enter through our doors. 

Have a blessed summer,

Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry


Monthly mission partner

Our May monthly mission partner is House of Hope. For over 50 years they have provided services for those struggling with substance abuse disorders. They contract with the Blue Earth County Drug Court and have added mental health services to their programming so as to better serve clients with co-occurring disorders. Thank you for supporting this important mission in our community. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Gail Ihrig Pat Nelson

Norm Knowles Lois Wintersteen

Dale Lutheran in Kenyon Deer Creek Valley Lutheran in Glenville

Fountain Lutheran in Fountain Mazoezi Singa Lutheran in Tanzania

Ntwike Lutheran in Tanzania Seniors Programming Soacha in Colombia

Lectionary Readings

May 18, John 13:31-35

May 25, John 14:23-29


BLC Weekly, May 5

Hello Bethlehem,

Congratulations to our Confirmation class of 2025! It was wonderful to celebrate with you on Sunday.


This week

Join us this Wednesday for the Year-End Picnic at Spring Lake Park! We’ll gather at Pavilion 1 at 5:00 PM for dinner, followed by worship, games, and ice cream. Come celebrate the end of another great program year! 

Bethlehem is hosting a Blood Drive on May 8th from 1-6pm in Grounds for Joy. Sign up online to save lives! 

What could be better than ROSES and CHOCOLATES for Mom on Mother's Day? How about FAIR TRADE roses and chocolates?  Please visit the Fair Trade table located in the Narthex following the church service on Sunday, May 11th to find these and many more beautiful items to browse and purchase.  All sales support FAIR TRADE artisans and vendors.

May 11 Adult Forum - House of Hope

Join us for morning coffee and a presentation by President/C.E.O. Mark Johnson about the essential services provided by House of Hope in Mankato. Its mission is to provide integrated non-residential treatment services to adults in our community. Its goal is to increase the desire for ongoing recovery from substance use and mental health disorders. We look forward to seeing you on Sunday, May 11 at 10:30 am in Grounds for Joy.


Family faith formation

The Flamingo Flocking Fundraiser is underway! Sign up to flock the yards of friends, family or foes with these flamboyant birds. $30 sends the flock, $10 gets your flamingo insurance to make your yard unflockable! Proceeds help send BLC youth to the Boundary Waters this summer. Happy flocking! 

Thank you for supporting the Youth Cinnamon Roll Fundraiser!

Sign up for Service & Sun 


Announcements

Church Cleaning Part Two! Join us Tuesday, May 13, at 9:00 a.m. Volunteers are needed to help wipe down the pews and hymnals. Please bring a pail and cloth; the Murphy cleaner will be provided. Thank you! 

Join the BLC Landscaping Crew! Help keep Bethlehem beautiful. Your next volunteer opportunity is coming up on May 17th at 9:00 AM. Join Sarah Morgan and the rest of the Landscaping Committee in a clean up and adding fresh mulch to the grounds.

Come and Celebrate with Rae! Rae Allen will turn 100 on May 13, and you are invited to celebrate with her. The Bethlehem Care Ministry is hosting a 100th party for Rae at 2 p.m. that day at Pathstone. All are welcome! 

April 27 Semi-Annual Meeting

We had a very productive and positive semi-annual meeting on Sunday. Thanks to everyone who attended and participated in our spring business. The minutes of the meeting are available at this link.

Connections Shelter Fundraiser Update

The 2025 Connections Shelter was cancelled due to a lack of community team support. This was disappointing news to Team Bethlehem since we had already raised almost $2,500 for this major fundraiser.

However, there is still good news for Connections Shelter. They are planning a new fundraiser - A Midsummer Soiree - on June 20 at the Arboratem at Gustavus Adolphus College. See attached flyer for details. We have arranged with Connections to serve as the Entertainment Sponsor by providing $3,000. See attached sponsor flyer. We will be recognized with the musician group scheduled for the evening. What great PR for Bethlehem and our partnership with Connections!

We only need $557.48 to reach our $3,000 goal. Cash or check donations can be given to Bob Ihrig. Make checks payable to Connections Shelter. Contact Bob with questions about this new opportunity to support Connections!


Monthly mission partner

Our May monthly mission partner is House of Hope. For over 50 years they have provided services for those struggling with substance abuse disorders. They contract with the Blue Earth County Drug Court and have added mental health services to their programming so as to better serve clients with co-occurring disorders. Thank you for supporting this important mission in our community. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line. 


Have a fun, safe, blessed summer!


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Gail Ihrig

Trinity Lutheran in Albert Lea St. John Lutheran in Owatonna

St. Paul Lutheran in Red Wing Cross of Glory Lutheran in Hartland

Dr. Martin Luther Lutheran in Tanzania Tulya Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

May 7, John 21:1-19

May 11, John 10:22-30


BLC Weekly, April 28

Hello Bethlehem,

Thank you for attending the Semi-Annual Meeting yesterday after worship! A recording of the meeting is available on our BLC Family & Friends Facebook group. There are still open positions on the ballot, including Council Vice-President. If you are interested in serving, please contact Bob Ihrig.


This week

Supper this week is Hamburgers/Cheeseburgers with pickle, chips and pasta salad, served at 5:00pm in the lower level. All are welcome! This is the last Wednesday night supper at Bethlehem of the year. Thank you to our Dinner Coordinator, Amy Haigh, and to all our Wednesday night servers for a fantastic year! Join us next week for the Year-End Picnic at Spring Lake Park! 

Endowment Fund Scholarship applications are due this week! Students in or entering college must apply online by May 1st. 

This Sunday: BLC youth will hold a Cinnamon Roll Fundraiser on May 4th. All proceeds support BLC kids and youth who are going to camp. Individual rolls can be purchased that day without a pre-order. Thank you for supporting the youth! 


Family faith formation

The Flamingo Flocking Fundraiser is underway! Sign up to flock the yards of friends, family or foes with these flamboyant birds. $30 sends the flock, $10 gets your flamingo insurance to make your yard unflockable! Proceeds help send BLC youth to the Boundary Waters this summer. Happy flocking! 

Join us next week for the Year-End Picnic at Spring Lake Park on Wednesday, May 7th. We’ll gather at Pavilion 1 at 5:00 PM for dinner, followed by worship. Come celebrate the end of another great program year! 


Announcements

Bethlehem is hosting another Blood Drive on May 8th from 1-6pm in Grounds for Joy. Sign up online to save lives! 

Church Cleaning Part Two! Join us Tuesday, May 13, at 9:00 a.m. Volunteers are needed to help wipe down the pews and hymnals. Please bring a pail and cloth; the Murphy cleaner will be provided. Thank you! 

What could be better than ROSES and CHOCOLATES for Mom on Mother's Day?  How about FAIR TRADE roses and chocolates?  Please visit the Fair Trade table located in the Narthex following the church service on Sunday, May 11th to find these and many more beautiful items to browse and purchase.  All sales support FAIR TRADE artisans and vendors.

Join the BLC Landscaping Crew! Help keep Bethlehem beautiful. Your next volunteer opportunity is coming up on May 17th at 9:00 AM. Join Sarah Morgan and the rest of the Landscaping Committee in a clean up and adding fresh mulch to the grounds.

Come and Celebrate with Rae! Rae Allen will turn 100 on May 13, and you are invited to celebrate with her. The Bethlehem Care Ministry is hosting a 100th party for Rae at 2 p.m. that day at Pathstone. All are welcome!


Connections Shelter Fundraiser Update

The 2025 Connections Shelter was cancelled due to a lack of community team support. This was disappointing news to Team Bethlehem since we had already raised almost $2,500 for this major fundraiser.

However, there is still good news for Connections Shelter. They are planning a new fundraiser - A Midsummer Soiree - on June 20 at the Arboratem at Gustavus Adolphus College. See attached flyer for details. We have arranged with Connections to serve as the Entertainment Sponsor by providing $3,000. See attached sponsor flyer. We will be recognized with the musician group scheduled for the evening. What great PR for Bethlehem and our partnership with Connections!

We only need $557.48 to reach our $3,000 goal. Cash or check donations can be given to Bob Ihrig. Make checks payable to Connections Shelter. Contact Bob with questions about this new opportunity to support Connections!


Monthly mission partner

Our April monthly mission partner is the WELCOME Team, formed with members from five area ELCA churches assisting with an asylum seeking family in our area. They have been working on their education, language skills, obtained driver’s licenses and have gained employment. Support this organization’s mission of welcome.

You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Gail Ihrig

Trinity Lutheran in Spring Grove St. John Lutheran in Kasson

United Redeemer Lutheran in Zumbrota Jokow Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Maiwut Lutheran Parish in South Sudan San Pedro Lutheran in Colombia

Lectionary Readings

April 30, John 20:19-31

May 4 & 7, John 21:1-19


BLC Weekly, April 21

Hello Bethlehem,

Alleluia! He is risen! We hope you had a wonderful Easter with Bethlehem. Special thanks to all who ordered Easter flowers and those who shared their gifts during Holy Week. The livestreams of our Easter and Holy Week services are available on our YouTube channel. 


April 27 Semi-Annual Meeting

The BLC semi-annual meeting will be held next Sunday, April 27 after the worship service in the Dining Room. Coffee and donuts will be served. Come one, come all!

Printed meeting materials are available on the kiosk in the narthex and are posted on the BLC website homepage: blcmankato.org. You are encouraged to review these materials prior to the meeting.

We need a quorum of 75 members in attendance to conduct our official business. This will include voting on the ballot of new and continuing Council, board & committee members and reviewing reports of various BLC topics including BLC finances and strategic plan. 

We are still seeking volunteers for the following positions for next year: Council Vice-President, Finance Committee (2) and Nominating Committee (2). Contact Bob Ihrig for more details and if interested in serving. 


Family faith formation

BLC youth will hold a Cinnamon Roll Fundraiser on May 4th. Pre-order a 6-pack of cinnamon rolls for you and your family! Pre-orders are limited to two 6-packs per order. Cost is $15 per six pack of rolls. Please order by Sunday, April 27th. All proceeds support BLC kids and youth who are going to camp. Individual rolls can be purchased that day without a pre-order. Thank you for supporting the youth! 

Join us for the Year-End Picnic at Spring Lake Park on Wednesday, May 7th. We’ll gather at Pavilion 1 at 5:00 PM for dinner, followed by worship. Come celebrate the end of another great program year!


Announcements

Wednesday night supper this week is turkey noodle casserole with salad and rolls, served at 5:00 PM in the lower level. All are welcome! 

Connections Shelter "Sleep Out" Cancelled

We received news last week that the planned April 25 Connections Shelter "Sleep Out" has been cancelled due to lack of interest and sign-up by community teams and individuals. Team Bethlehem was the only team registered for the event. Thank you to everyone who contributed to our team! We remain the defending two-time team champion for the Sleep Out. We will apply our existing and new Bethlehem donations for a new Connections fundraiser "Midsummer Soiree" planned for this summer. Stay tuned for more details! We remain committed to supporting Connections as an essential community asset for those facing homelessness. If you would like to contribute to this event, contact Bob Ihrig. Connections is always looking for volunteers to serve or donate meals. Sign up online. 

Join the BLC Landscaping Crew! Help keep Bethlehem beautiful. Your next volunteer opportunity is coming up on May 17th at 9:00 AM. Join Sarah Morgan and the rest of the Landscaping Committee in a clean up and adding fresh mulch to the grounds.

The Endowment Fund Scholarship application is now open! Students in or entering college must apply online by May 1st. 

Bethlehem is hosting another Blood Drive on May 8th from 1-6pm in Grounds for Joy. Sign up online to save lives! 

Come and Celebrate with Rae! Rae Allen will turn 100 on May 13, and you are invited to celebrate with her. The Bethlehem Care Ministry is hosting a 100th party for Rae at 2 p.m. that day at Pathstone. All are welcome! 


Monthly mission partner

Our April monthly mission partner is the WELCOME Team, formed with members from five area ELCA churches assisting with an asylum seeking family in our area. They have been working on their education, language skills, obtained driver’s licenses and have gained employment. Support this organization’s mission of welcome.

You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Gail Ihrig

The families & friends of Casie Jo Reiner & Charlene Zimmerman

Peace and justice in all places

Lectionary Readings

April 23, Luke 24:1-12

April 27 & 30, John 20:19-31


BLC Weekly, April 14

Hello Bethlehem,

Join us for Holy Week. Maundy Thursday and Good Friday worship begin at 6:00 PM. There will be no Wednesday evening programming this week. Easter Sunday worship begins at 9:30 AM.

Easter flower orders are due tomorrow, April 15th. Donate any amount to order flowers in honor or memory of your loved ones. Easter Flower orders are now open online or you can pick up a form from the Welcome Kiosk. Flowers can be picked up after worship on Easter Sunday.


Photos from Palm Sunday


April 27 Semi-Annual Meeting

The BLC semi-annual meeting will be held on Sunday, April 27 after the worship service in the Dining Room. Coffee and donuts will be served. Come one, come all!

Printed meeting materials are available on the kiosk in the narthex and are posted on the BLC website homepage: blcmankato.org. You are encouraged to review these materials prior to the meeting.

We need a quorum of 75 members in attendance to conduct our official business. This will include voting on the ballot of new and continuing Council, board & committee members and reviewing reports of various BLC topics including BLC finances and strategic plan. 

We are still seeking volunteers for the following positions for next year: Council Vice-President, Finance Committee (2) and Nominating Committee (2). Contact Bob Ihrig for more details and if interested in serving. 


Announcements

BLC youth will hold a Cinnamon Roll Fundraiser on May 4th. Pre-order a 6-pack of cinnamon rolls for you and your family! Pre-orders are limited to two 6-packs per order. Cost is $15 per six pack of rolls. Please order by Sunday, April 27th. All proceeds support BLC kids and youth who are going to camp. Individual rolls can be purchased that day without a pre-order. Thank you for supporting the youth!

The Endowment Fund Scholarship application is now open! Students in or entering college must apply online by May 1st. 

Bethlehem is hosting another Blood Drive on May 8th from 1-6pm in Grounds for Joy. Sign up online to save lives! 

Connections Sleep Out Updates:

  • Team Bethlehem is making great progress toward its fundraising goal for the 2025 Connections Sleep Out. As of today, we have received $2,000 in donations from BLC members and supporters. That puts us at 46% of our goal with 12 days to go. Thank You!!

  • Want to join our team with a donation? Want to make a difference? Check out the flyer below for details of the Sleep Out and how you can add to our total with your contribution. We can accept cash, checks or online donations. If you give online, remember to email Bob Ihrig with this information so we can add you to our team record.

  • We are pleased to report that Lori Ruthenbeck will join Pastor Jacie and Amy Haigh as a Team Bethlehem Sleep Out participant on Friday, April 25. Bethlehem is well represented by this Terrific Trio!


Monthly mission partner

Our April monthly mission partner is the WELCOME Team, formed with members from five area ELCA churches assisting with an asylum seeking family in our area. They have been working on their education, language skills, obtained driver’s licenses and have gained employment. Support this organization’s mission of welcome.

You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Gail Ihrig

The families & friends of Florence Sassenberg, and Don Grotta

Saetersdal Lutheran in Harmony St. Paul’s of German Lake in Elysian

Little Cedar Lutheran in Adams Ushora Lutheran in Tanzania

Taasisi Kiomboi Lutheran in Tanzania Nkinto Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

April 17, John 13:1-17, 31b-35

April 18, John 18:1-19:42

April 20 & April 23, Luke 24:1-12


BLC Weekly, April 7

Hello Bethlehem,

Join us for Holy Week. Palm Sunday worship, led by the BLC youth and kiddos, begins at 9:30 AM. Maundy Thursday and Good Friday worship begin at 6:00 PM. There will be no Wednesday evening programming next week.


This week

The Endowment Fund Scholarship application is now open! Students in or entering college must apply online by May 1st. 

The Trio performing special music during Sunday worship.

Wednesday Night Supper: This week we are serving grilled chicken on a bun with potato salad and baked beans. Join us at 5:00pm in the lower level. The meal is free. All are welcome.

Join us at 6:15 in the sanctuary each Wednesday in Lent for a guest preacher exploring the topic of Hope. Last but certainly not least, worship this Wednesday April 9 will be led by Pastor Roger Haug. 

Bibles & Brews meets this Thursday. Join Pastor Jacie at Weggy’s, 6:00 PM, for meaningful conversation on faith and culture. 

The Musicorum Spring Concert, Enduring, will be held at Bethlehem this Saturday at 6:30 PM. Tickets are $15, students and youth are $5. Learn more at musicorum-mn.org. 

Order flowers in honor or memory of your loved ones. Easter Flower orders are now open online or you can pick up a form from the Welcome Kiosk. Please order by April 15th. Flowers can be picked up after worship on Easter Sunday. 


Family Faith Formation

FREE: Youth Mental Health First Aid Training May 10th, 9am-5pm 127 S 2nd Street. Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) equips adults with the knowledge and skills to recognize signs of mental health struggles, provide support, and connect young people with appropriate resources. Having informed, compassionate adults ready to step in can prevent youth mental health crises, reduce stigma, and foster a culture of understanding. Whether you are a parent, educator, coach, or community leader, your role in supporting youth mental health is invaluable. This training empowers you to be that first line of support, ensuring that no young person has to navigate their struggles alone. Don't miss this opportunity to gain lifegiving skills and make a real difference in the lives of young people. Register here.  Please note: additional dates are available if May 10th won’t work for you!


Announcements

Kato Sleep-Out 2025

Join team Bethlehem for the 2025 Kato Sleep-Out fundraiser to support Connections Shelter. Give your donations to Bob Ihrig for Team Bethlehem! Help us to Three-Peat as the top team for financial donations again. You can make a difference! Volunteer to sleep-out on April 25 as a Bethlehem team member. Contact Bob Ihrig if interested and available to join Pr. Jacie.

Connections Shelter Sleep Out Update - Team Bethlehem

Thank you so much for your generous support of the 2025 Sleep Out for the Connections Ministry! As of today, we have received a total of $982.95 from 9 BLC members. Those donations move us closer to meeting and exceeding last year's total BLC contributions of $4,341. We have achieved 23% of that goal.

You can add to this total with a contribution today! Read for details in the Sleep Out flyer.

Thank you also to Pr. Jacie & Amy Haigh for volunteering to represent Team Bethlehem at the Sleep Out on Friday, April 25. If you want to join them, let Bob Ihrig know and we will add you to our "sleepers". The more, the merrier!

Join Us in Serving Students Through Campus Cupboard!

Crossroads Campus Ministry is looking for dedicated volunteers to help with our Campus Cupboard Food Pantry! This vital ministry provides food and essential items to students in need, ensuring they have the support necessary to focus on their education.

We need volunteers to assist with:

  • Stocking and restocking shelves

  • Helping students find products

  • Organizing inventory

  • Giving tours to new registrants

  • Assisting with checkout

Your time and effort make a real difference! Whether you can help weekly or occasionally, we’d love to have you join us. The Campus Cupboard thrives because of volunteers like YOU!

Location: Crossroads Campus Ministry- 331 Dillon Ave. Mankato, MN 56001
Flexible shifts available

Interested? Contact Pastor Jenna Couch (pastorjenna@gmail.com) or stop by to learn more!


THANK You

Thank you for your support of the Fiesta of Joy! Last Thursday hundreds gathered at Christ the King for dinner, music, a silent auction and programming. There are just ten centerpieces left for sale. They will be available for purchase before and after worship this Sunday, $25-$35, cash or check only. Thank you for supporting the WELCOME Team! 

“Spring break flew by faster than a supersonic jet, and now we're over half-way through Spring Term! We are always thrilled to welcome students to Crossroads, and we feel tremendously blessed to have Bethlehem Lutheran Church and your volunteers as partners in our ministry to feed them through our Lunch For-a-Buck program. On Tuesday, April 1st, faithful servants Jan Blaisdell and DeAnn Bennett prepared and/or served chicken alfredo, spinach alfredo, Italian bread, salad, and homemade cookies and bars to 39 hungry lunch-goers. They also collected $41.40 in donations that will be used to purchase the salad supplies, beverages, dinnerware, and other items for lunches during the school year. God bless you for your generosity and for supporting the students and our ministry at Crossroads. We look forward to seeing you again on the final lunch of the school year on May 6th. We couldn't do this without you!”

Grace and peace,

Crossroads Lutheran Campus Ministry


Monthly mission partner

Our April monthly mission partner is the WELCOME Team, formed with members from five area ELCA churches assisting with an asylum seeking family in our area. They have been working on their education, language skills, obtained driver’s licenses and have gained employment. Support this organization’s mission of welcome.

You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Gail Ihrig

The families & friends of Joan Stoffel, Florence Sassenberg, and Don Grotta

Trinity Lutheran in Wanamingo Root Prairie Lutheran in Chatfield

Trinity Lutheran in Thompson Iambi Lutheran in Tanzania

Disaster Preparation & Response Ministry in Colombia

CELCO (Colegio de la Evangelica Luterana de Colombia) in Cocuy Easces

Lectionary Readings

April 9, Psalm 71:1-14

April 13, Luke 23:1-49


BLC Weekly, March 31

Hello Bethlehem,

Order flowers in honor or memory of your loved ones. Easter Flower orders are now open online or you can pick up a form from the Welcome Kiosk. Please order by April 15th. Flowers can be picked up after worship on Easter Sunday. 


This week

Wednesday Night Supper: This week we are serving sub sandwiches with potato chips and cold pasta salad. Join us at 5:00pm in the lower level. The meal is free. All are welcome.

Join us at 6:15 in the sanctuary each Wednesday in Lent for a guest preacher exploring the topic of Hope. Preaching Schedule: 

  • April 2 - Pastor Heather Hammond

  • April 9 - Pastor Roger Haug

The Fiesta of Joy is this Thursday 5:00pm at Christ the King. Come celebrate the work of the WELCOME Team, enjoy music, shop silent auction baskets, and savor a delicious south of the border meal created by Bethlehem’s Jim Christensen and celebrity chef, Jordan Mendez, owner and manager of Mazatlan. See you Thursday! 

April 6 Adult Forum: WELCOME Team.

The Cruz family has been with us in Mankato since late 2022. They seek to start a new life as legal asylum seekers. Bethlehem, along with 4 other local churches, have sponsored their journey during this time. Join us as we learn the latest of developments both locally and nationally and how we can continue to walk with them. We will gather in Grounds for Joy at 10:45 am on Sunday, April 6 for coffee and conversation with members of the WELCOME Team.


Family Faith Formation

Photos from the BLC Youth Bake Off last Friday! 

BLC Family Easter Egg Hunt coming up on Saturday, April 12th. Requesting candy donations to fill eggs! Drop off in the main office by April 6th. Thank you!

FREE: Youth Mental Health First Aid Training 

May 10th, 9am-5pm 127 S 2nd Street. Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) equips adults with the knowledge and skills to recognize signs of mental health struggles, provide support, and connect young people with appropriate resources. Having informed, compassionate adults ready to step in can prevent youth mental health crises, reduce stigma, and foster a culture of understanding. Whether you are a parent, educator, coach, or community leader, your role in supporting youth mental health is invaluable. This training empowers you to be that first line of support, ensuring that no young person has to navigate their struggles alone. Don't miss this opportunity to gain lifegiving skills and make a real difference in the lives of young people. Register here. 


Announcements

Kato Sleep-Out 2025

Join team Bethlehem for the 2025 Kato Sleep-Out fundraiser to support Connections Shelter. Give your donations to Bob Ihrig for Team Bethlehem! Help us to Three-Peat as the top team for financial donations again. You can make a difference! Volunteer to sleep-out on April 25 as a Bethlehem team member. Contact Bob Ihrig if interested and available to join Pr. Jacie.

Join Us in Serving Students Through Campus Cupboard!

Crossroads Campus Ministry is looking for dedicated volunteers to help with our Campus Cupboard Food Pantry! This vital ministry provides food and essential items to students in need, ensuring they have the support necessary to focus on their education.

  • We need volunteers to assist with:

  • Stocking and restocking shelves

  • Helping students find products

  • Organizing inventory

  • Giving tours to new registrants

  • Assisting with checkout

Your time and effort make a real difference! Whether you can help weekly or occasionally, we’d love to have you join us. The Campus Cupboard thrives because of volunteers like YOU!

Location: Crossroads Campus Ministry- 331 Dillon Ave. Mankato, MN 56001
Flexible shifts available

Interested? Contact Pastor Jenna Couch (pastorjenna@gmail.com) or stop by to learn more!


THANK You

Pastor Lisa Kipp with Lutheran World Relief thanked Bethlehem during her Adult Forum on Sunday for our continued partnership and generosity. 


Monthly mission partner

Our March monthly mission partner is THEE Alliance for Forgiving Medical Debt. Their mission is to combine expertise and compassion. $1 forgives $100 of financial hardship family debt. Many people are just one medical emergency away from a financial crisis. You can give online or drop off a check written out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

Our April monthly mission partner is the WELCOME Team, formed with members from five area ELCA churches assisting with an asylum seeking family in our area. They have been working on their education, language skills, obtained driver’s licenses and have gained employment. Support this organization’s mission of welcome.


This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson Marian Mallory Pete Wachtel

Anna Moses Barb Girtz Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag Al Rossow Gail Ihrig

Steven Chima Peggy Schulze

The families & friends of Joan Stoffel and Florence Sassenberg

Community Lutheran in Geneva Salem Lutheran in Albert Lea

Christ Lutheran in Preston Whalan Lutheran in Lanesboro

Mwanga Lutheran in Tanzania Kier Wan Lutheran Parish in South Sudan Iambi Hospital in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

April 2, Jeremiah 29:10-14

April 6, John 12:1-8