Hello Bethlehem,

Won’t you be our neighbor? We are so excited to reconnect and begin the program year together, beginning this Sunday! Join us for Neighbor Days as we celebrate and explore what it means to be a neighbor. The fun begins with worship with the BLC Praise Band this Sunday at 9:30am, then enjoy coffee and donuts while participating in art and service projects around the building, followed by a meal beginning at 11:30am in the lower level dining hall.

Get ready for Neighbor Days:

• Bring a photo or artistic creativity to complete a Know Your Neighbor trolley car and add it to the Know Your Neighbor wall!

• Check out Bethlehem’s small groups, Wednesday Supper schedule, Adult Forums, and more on our website. You’ll have a chance to complete a Time & Talent form and sign up for all the Bethlehem activities you’d like to join!

• Cardigans are welcome!

We can’t wait to see you all at Neighbor Days!

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Announcements

SEMN Pride is this Saturday! Come together with Mankato area congregations and clergy for a multi-faith service to honor, celebrate, and affirm our sacred LGBTQ+ community! The service begins at 10:30am at First Presbyterian and will be led in part by Pastor Jacie. The service will be live-streamed on First Presbyterian Church of Mankato's Facebook page. This even is co-hosted by: UU Fellowship of Mankato, First Congregational UCC, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Centenary United Methodist Church, Messiah Lutheran Church, Union Presbyterian Church, First Presbyterian Church of Mankato and more!

Wednesday Night Suppers resume next week! We are so excited for another season of food and fellowship together. Interested in helping to serve meals? Contact our office or get in touch with our Dinner Coordinator, Amy Haigh. Check out the upcoming menu on our website.

We pray for all impacted by the disaster in Nepal. You can support Lutheran Disaster Response by giving online here.

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our September Monthly Mission Partner is the Greater Mankato Diversity Council (GMDC). The Greater Mankato Diversity Council (GMDC) is dedicated to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and connected community through diversity education and action. Through Promoting Respect Workshops, Business and Organizational Diversity Training, and community events, we provide tools to understand diversity, promote inclusion, and celebrate differences. GMDC focuses on respect and full participation for everyone.

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

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Bev Mathison

Doug Dittbenner

Mark Woelfel

Shirley Davis

Alice Haugen

Lori Ruthenbeck

The Family & Friends of Delores Singelstad

East Freeborn Lutheran in Albert Lea

Anuyak Sudanese Worshipping Community in Austin

Zumbro Lutheran in Rochester

Kule Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Ngimu Lutheran in Tanzania

Mitume Ghata Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

September 13 & 16, Matthew 18:21-35

September 20 & 23, Matthew 20:1-16

September 27 & 30, Matthew 21:23-32

Hello Bethlehem,

Won’t you be our neighbor? Summer is winding down and we are looking forward to a new season of programming with Wednesday worship, suppers and education. It all begins with Neighbor Days, Sunday, September 13 and Wednesday, September 16. Join us as we reconnect with the Bethlehem community and kick of a new season of faith and fellowship. This year’s theme will explore what it means to be a neighbor to one another, the wider community, and the world. Both days will feature worship, a shared meal, and community art and service projects. Save the date, we’ll see you at Neighbor Days!

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Welcome to Bethlehem’s newest member, Emery Adams, who was baptized on Sunday!

Announcements

Thank you to Amy Haigh, our Dinner Coordinator, for another season of Summer Sack Lunches! The final meals of the season went out yesterday evening. Thank you to all who donated to and supported this season of Summer Sack Lunches. Wednesday Night Suppers resume Sept. 16, check out the menu on the BLC website.

Sabbatical Leave Report - Sunday, September 6 Join Pastor Jay for coffee and conversation about his recent sabbatical leave at the adult forum on Sunday at 10:45 am in Grounds for Joy. We welcome everyone!

Fall programming kicks off in just a few weeks! Check out Bethlehem’s small groups, Wednesday Supper schedule, Adult Forums, and more on our website.

We pray for all impacted by the disaster in Nepal. You can support Lutheran Disaster Response by giving online here.

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A note from the BLC FInancial Secretary

Financial update:  In last week's e-news, the amount paid to WEB Construction for the LSS bathroom remodel was incorrect.  The actual amount paid to WEB Construction was $47,238.  These funds came from the estate received last year.

Contribution reports for January - August, 2026 will be sent out by email in early September.  If you would prefer a paper copy, please call the church office at 507-388-2925.  

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Monthly Mission Partner

Last call: Our August Monthly Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. LWR serves to save and improve the lives of our neighbors living across the globe in the most impoverished areas of East and West Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. LWR seeks to partner with local communities to address hunger, create jobs, and develop productive economies rooted in agriculture, promote sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices, as well as provide assistance in response to natural disasters — such as the recent earthquake in Venezuela. Last year, LWR began responding to our neighbors in crisis here in the U.S. Following multiple catastrophic events taking place in the U.S., LWR began working alongside trusted local faith partners to distribute truckloads of essential emergency supplies. Faithful friends of LWR — including many at Bethlehem — volunteer time and resources to make quilts and assemble school kits. Through all of these efforts, families and children are equipped with essentials needed not only to survive, but also to move forward. Please consider making a financial contribution to help and improve the lives and livelihoods of our neighbors living both close to home as well as abroad.

Giving Goal: $7,000 You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

Our September Monthly Mission Partner will be the Greater Mankato Diversity Council (GMDC).

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Bev Mathison

Doug Dittbenner

Mark Woelfel

First Lutheran in Albert Lea

Good Shepherd Lutheran in Plainview

Grace Lutheran in Waseca

Urughu Lutheran in Tanzania

St. John Mwando Lutheran in Tanzania

Lutheran Institute Kiomboi in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

September 6, Matthew 18: 15-20

September 13 & 16, Matthew 18:21-35

September 20 & 23, Matthew 20:1-16

September 27 & 30, Matthew 21:23-32

Hello Bethlehem,

Thank you for joining us for Generous Together! Together we explored the question, “Where are we to be generous?” Join us for the next Generous Together gathering on Sunday, September 27th in Grounds for Joy after worship.

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Announcements

The Lincoln Park Neighborhood Association’s annual Nite to Unite is this Tuesday, August 25, from 5:30-8:30pm in the Bethlehem parking lot. Enjoy food, music, games and fun with our neighbors!

Attention 6th-12th graders: we’re going to Valleyfair! The sign up sheet will close this Wednesday so register today. Sign up online using this link to join the fun, Wednesday, September 2.

It’s our last week of Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry! Our last Summer Sack Lunches will be distributed on Sunday, August 30th. Wednesday night suppers begin Sept. 16th, served at 5PM in the lower level dining hall.

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Council Corner

Council Corner 

Here are the “highlights” of the Bethlehem Council meeting held on Tuesday, August 18. Meeting minutes with details are posted at www.blcmankato.org and are also available in the church office notebook. Visit with Council members with questions and concerns! We welcome your conversation & feedback! Be informed about your church!

1. Financial Report: The July 31 general fund balance is a deficit of -$22,855.78, representing an increase from the June 30 deficit of -$18,339.51. This was the balance after paying the Web Construction expenses of $72,702.43 for the LSS bathroom renovation from the Stiffel account. July member offerings were $33,368.53 which was $9,036 below budget. Member giving statements for the first 6 months will be in the mail this month.

2. Pastor Jay Sabbatical Adult Forum: Pastor Jay will share his sabbatical experience at an adult forum on Sunday, September 6. Join us after morning worship at 10:45 am in Grounds for Joy for coffee & conversation.

3. God’s Work Our Hands: Join us on Sunday, September 13 and Wednesday, September 16 to kick off the new church year with worship and volunteer opportunities to do God’s work at BLC and in our community.

4. Facilities News: The Facilities Board has completed a cleaning of the library chairs and has approved plans for the patching of the BLC parking lot this fall.

5. Crossroads Campus Ministry: A service of closure of the Crossroads Ministry will be held on the afternoon of December 6 to formally bring an end to the ministry. This is open to the public to celebrate the legacy of Crossroads. Stay tuned for more details in the future.

6. Collaborative Learning for Molly Nelson: As part of her Wartburg Seminary pastoral training program, Molly will serve at Bethlehem in a variety of learning experiences including visiting members in our care ministry, attending Council meetings, leading confirmation classes and an Advent service and preaching at worship. This is being coordinated by Wartburg, the SE MN Synod and a BLC committee.

7. Community Leader Interviews: Bob Ihrig reported on his July 31 interview with Trisha Anderson, executive director of Partners for Housing in Mankato. Enhancing 24/7 emergency shelter capacity and meeting mental health needs of our unsheltered were identified as important needs in our community. Bethlehem could help to address those needs by networking & collaborating with Partners through providing financial donations, volunteering, helping with food needs, providing cleaning supplies and other supplies to help fill gaps for clients, assisting with transportation and sharing news about Partners at BLC adult forums.

8. Credit Card Policy: A new BLC credit card policy presented by the Finance Committee was approved to govern required receipts and budget lines for purchases made.

9. Semi-Annual Meetings: Mark your calendars for Sunday, November 22 at 10:45 for the fall semi-annual meeting in the dining room. The 2027 budget preview forum will be held one week before on Sunday, November 15 at 10:45 in Grounds for Joy. The spring semi-annual meeting will be held on Sunday, April 25 with the preview meeting to be held on Sunday, April 11. These are your opportunities to be involved in BLC decision-making and to learn about all that Bethlehem is doing to advance its mission and ministry. Join us!

10. Wednesday Night Suppers: Plan on joining us again on Wednesday evenings at 5 pm beginning September 16 for supper and conversation with members of our community and congregation. We will serve meals from JD Truffles again at an established cost of $5 per meal. 75 meals will be provided at each supper. Financial support for this BLC outreach program beyond free-will donations is being explored.

11. Next Council Meeting: September 15, 2026

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our August Monthly Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. LWR serves to save and improve the lives of our neighbors living across the globe in the most impoverished areas of East and West Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. LWR seeks to partner with local communities to address hunger, create jobs, and develop productive economies rooted in agriculture, promote sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices, as well as provide assistance in response to natural disasters — such as the recent earthquake in Venezuela. Last year, LWR began responding to our neighbors in crisis here in the U.S. Following multiple catastrophic events taking place in the U.S., LWR began working alongside trusted local faith partners to distribute truckloads of essential emergency supplies. Faithful friends of LWR — including many at Bethlehem — volunteer time and resources to make quilts and assemble school kits. Through all of these efforts, families and children are equipped with essentials needed not only to survive, but also to move forward. Please consider making a financial contribution to help and improve the lives and livelihoods of our neighbors living both close to home as well as abroad.

Giving Goal: $7,000 You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Bev Mathison

Doug Dittbenner

The family & friends of Amy Grams Haugesag

The family & friends of Barb Manske

Evanger Lutheran in Sargeant

Holden Lutheran in Kenyon

Trinity Lutheran in Thompson

Maria Mission in Bucaramanga, Colombia

Mkalama Lutheran in Tanzania

Mungaa Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

August 30, Matthew 16: 21-28

September 6, Matthew 18: 15-20

September 13 & 16, Matthew 18:21-35

September 20 & 23, Matthew 20:1-16

September 27 & 30, Matthew 21:23-32

Hello Bethlehem,

Our third Generous Together gathering is coming up this Sunday, August 23! Join us after worship at 10:45am in Grounds for Joy as all generations explore generosity together with creative activities and conversation. This session’s theme: Where are we to be generous? We’ll see you Sunday!

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Announcements

We are hosting a Blood Drive tomorrow, Tuesday, August 18 from 1:00pm-6:00pm. Sign up online to save lives!

Prayer Shawl Makers meet this Thursday from 2-4PM in the library. Knitters, crocheters, crafters and learners are welcome!

The Lincoln Park Neighborhood Association’s annual Nite to Unite is Tuesday, August 25, from 5:30-8:30pm in the Bethlehem parking lot. Enjoy food, music, games and fun with our neighbors!

Attention 6th-12th graders: we’re going to Valleyfair! Sign up online using this link to join the fun, Wednesday, September 2.

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry! Our last Summer Sack Lunches will be distributed on Sunday, August 30th. Wednesday night suppers begin Sept. 16th, served at 5PM in the lower level dining hall.

Join us in wishing a very happy 90th birthday to Jane Sletta on August 27! Jane is living in Colorado; please contact the church office if you need her address to send a birthday card!

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our August Monthly Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. LWR serves to save and improve the lives of our neighbors living across the globe in the most impoverished areas of East and West Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. LWR seeks to partner with local communities to address hunger, create jobs, and develop productive economies rooted in agriculture, promote sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices, as well as provide assistance in response to natural disasters — such as the recent earthquake in Venezuela. Last year, LWR began responding to our neighbors in crisis here in the U.S. Following multiple catastrophic events taking place in the U.S., LWR began working alongside trusted local faith partners to distribute truckloads of essential emergency supplies. Faithful friends of LWR — including many at Bethlehem — volunteer time and resources to make quilts and assemble school kits. Through all of these efforts, families and children are equipped with essentials needed not only to survive, but also to move forward. Please consider making a financial contribution to help and improve the lives and livelihoods of our neighbors living both close to home as well as abroad.

Giving Goal: $7,000 You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Bev Mathison

The family & friends of Duane Ahlness

Trinity Lutheran in Hayfield

Faith Lutheran in Dodge Center

Trinity Lutheran in Spring Grove

Wanamingo Lutheran in Wanamingo

Nuru Itaja Lutheran in Tanzania

Kier Wan Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Ikhanoda Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

August 23, Matthew 16: 13-20

August 30, Matthew 16: 21-28

Hello Bethlehem,

Welcome back to our Boundary Waters adventurers! Pastor Jacie, our Family Faith Director, Anna, and 13 Bethlehem members have returned from their week in the BWCA!

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This week

Don’t miss Bethlehem’s own, Christine Schulz, performing her recital this Tuesday at 12:10 in the sanctuary. The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists represents organists, church musicians, and organ music lovers in South Central Minnesota, with activities focused in the cities of Mankato, New Ulm, and Saint Peter. We hope you will join us for the finale of the Summer Organ Recital Series!

Please be mindful that Tuesday is also an election day and that Grounds for Joy will be utilized by election officials.

Bibles & Brews meets this Thursday, 6-8PM at Weggys. Contact Pastor Jacie if you have any questions.

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Announcements

Bethlehem will host a Blood Drive next week on Tuesday, August 18 from 1:00pm-6:00pm. Sign up online to save lives!

The Lincoln Park Neighborhood Association’s annual Nite to Unite is Tuesday, August 25, from 5:30-8:30pm in the Bethlehem parking lot. Enjoy food, music, games and fun with our neighbors!

Attention 6th-12th graders: we’re going to Valleyfair! Sign up online using this link to join the fun, Wednesday, September 2.

Summer Sack Lunches: Meals are distributed from 5-6pm Sundays in the parking lot. Limit 1 per-person, must pick up in-person. We are collecting donations in the narthex and financial donations are accepted online. Thank you for supporting this ministry! Our last Summer Sack Lunches will be distributed on Sunday, August 30th. Wednesday night suppers begin Sept. 16th, served at 5PM in the lower level dining hall.

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our August Monthly Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. LWR serves to save and improve the lives of our neighbors living across the globe in the most impoverished areas of East and West Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. LWR seeks to partner with local communities to address hunger, create jobs, and develop productive economies rooted in agriculture, promote sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices, as well as provide assistance in response to natural disasters — such as the recent earthquake in Venezuela. Last year, LWR began responding to our neighbors in crisis here in the U.S. Following multiple catastrophic events taking place in the U.S., LWR began working alongside trusted local faith partners to distribute truckloads of essential emergency supplies. Faithful friends of LWR — including many at Bethlehem — volunteer time and resources to make quilts and assemble school kits. Through all of these efforts, families and children are equipped with essentials needed not only to survive, but also to move forward. Please consider making a financial contribution to help and improve the lives and livelihoods of our neighbors living both close to home as well as abroad.

Giving Goal: $7,000 You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Bev Mathison

The family & friends of Duane Ahlness

Salem Lutheran in Albert Lea

Calvary Lutheran in Mankato

Saint Paul Lutheran in Pine Island

Venezuelan Migrant Ministry in Colombia

Jokow Wareda Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Casa La Paz in Medellin, Colombia

Lectionary Readings

August 16, Matthew 15: [10-20] 21-28

August 23, Matthew 16: 13-20

August 30, Matthew 16: 21-28

Hello Bethlehem,

The summer fun continues! After back-to-back weeks of VBS and camp on the Shores of St. Andrew, Bethlehem youth and leaders are Boundary Waters bound this week! We pray for a fun, safe and blessed time exploring creation in the Boundary Waters.

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Announcements

Welcome back to our Shores of St. Andrews campers! It was a warm but fun week of adventuring at camp!

Pastor Jay Dahlvang has returned from his sabbatical! We are thankful for this opportunity for spacious rest for our Lead Pastor and now pray for ease, reconnection and joyful welcome as he returns to Bethlehem.

Thank you to to Pastor Kristin Engstrom who joined us as our guest preacher on Sunday and shared about her experiences of mission work around the world. We pray for her continuing mission work at her current call in Madagascar.

Bethlehem will host a Blood Drive on August 18 from 1:00pm-6:00pm. Sign up online to save lives!

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

The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists represents organists, church musicians, and organ music lovers in South Central Minnesota, with activities focused in the cities of Mankato, New Ulm, and Saint Peter. Their Summer Organ Recital series is now underway, featuring FREE concerts open to all Tuesdays at 12:10pm. Bethlehem will host the final concerts of the season, July 28 - August 11. We hope you will take advantage of these wonderful opportunities to enjoy the work of talented area musicians. John Baumann performs August 4, and don’t miss Bethlehem’s own Christine Schulz, performing August 11.

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Monthly Mission Partner

Our August Monthly Mission Partner is Lutheran World Relief. LWR serves to save and improve the lives of our neighbors living across the globe in the most impoverished areas of East and West Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. LWR seeks to partner with local communities to address hunger, create jobs, and develop productive economies rooted in agriculture, promote sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices, as well as provide assistance in response to natural disasters — such as the recent earthquake in Venezuela. Last year, LWR began responding to our neighbors in crisis here in the U.S. Following multiple catastrophic events taking place in the U.S., LWR began working alongside trusted local faith partners to distribute truckloads of essential emergency supplies. Faithful friends of LWR — including many at Bethlehem — volunteer time and resources to make quilts and assemble school kits. Through all of these efforts, families and children are equipped with essentials needed not only to survive, but also to move forward. Please consider making a financial contribution to help and improve the lives and livelihoods of our neighbors living both close to home as well as abroad.

Giving Goal: $7,000 You can give online, donate via Venmo @BLCMankato, or via check made out to Bethlehem with the monthly mission in the memo line.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Jerry Williams

The family & friends of Duane Ahlness

St. Olaf Lutheran in Austin

St. Matthew Lutheran in Harmony

Trinity Lutheran in New Richland

First English Lutheran in Faribault

Lutheran School of Theology (IELCO) in Bogota

Mazoezi Songambele Lutheran in Tanzania

Justice y Vida Ministry in Colombia

Lectionary Readings

August 9, Matthew 14: 22-33

August 16, Matthew 15: [10-20] 21-28

August 23, Matthew 16: 13-20

August 30, Matthew 16: 21-28

Hello Bethlehem,

Our Bethlehem youth and adults are at Water’s Edge Ministries this week! Prayers for Pr. Jacie, our Family Faith Formation Director, Anna, and the 19 BLC kiddos enjoying a week of worship, play, adventure and creativity on the Shores of St. Andrew!

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Announcements

Thanks for joining us for VBS I Spy: Operation Believe! It was a wonderful week of growing in faith with our beloved neighbors and community. Check out the photos on our Facebook page.

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

The Sioux Trails Chapter of the American Guild of Organists represents organists, church musicians, and organ music lovers in South Central Minnesota, with activities focused in the cities of Mankato, New Ulm, and Saint Peter. Their Summer Organ Recital series is now underway, featuring FREE concerts open to all Tuesdays at 12:10pm. Bethlehem will host the final concerts of the season, July 28 - August 11. We hope you will take advantage of these wonderful opportunities to enjoy the work of talented area musicians. Elisabeth Urtel performs July 28, John Baumann performs August 4, and don’t miss Bethlehem’s own Christine Schulz, performing August 11.

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Monthly Mission Partner

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

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

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Jerry Williams

Elstad Lutheran in Peterson

Nuer Community Lutheran in Owatonna

Zion Lutheran in Ellendale

Kititimo Lutheran Dispensary in Tanzania

Mazoezi Kikio Lutheran in Tanzania

Mampanta Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

August 2, Matthew 14: 13-21

August 9, Matthew 14: 22-33

August 16, Matthew 15: [10-20] 21-28

August 23, Matthew 16: 13-20

August 30, Matthew 16: 21-28

Hello Bethlehem,

It’s VBS Week! VBS I Spy: Operation Believe is July 20-23. Dinner is served at 5pm and programming runs from 6-7:30pm. Bethlehem will host this shared VBS experience with Centenary Methodist, First Presbyterian and First Congregational UCC. Thank you to all who have donated, supported and volunteered to lead VBS 2026. We pray for a fun, safe and blessed week for our kiddos!

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Announcements

Thank you for supporting the 4th annual Bike.Build.Home 500! Bethlehem hosted the riders for dinner last Wednesday evening.

Bethlehem offices will be open 9am - 1pm this Tuesday. The office will be open 9am - 5pm Wednesday and Thursday. Thank you!

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

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

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

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Monthly Mission Partner

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

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

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Jerry Williams

Ascension Lutheran in Albert Lea

Saetersdal Lutheran in Harmony

East St. Olaf Lutheran in Byron

Mazoezi Igurubi Lutheran in Tanzania

Gach Jal Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Kinakumi Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

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

August 2, Matthew 14: 13-21

August 9, Matthew 14: 22-33

August 16, Matthew 15: [10-20] 21-28

August 23, Matthew 16: 13-20

August 30, Matthew 16: 21-28

Hello Bethlehem,

Thank you for joining us for Bethlehem’s second Generous Together gathering. Yesterday we gathered in Grounds for Joy after worship to explore the question, “Who can be generous?”

Exploring the story of the feeding of the more than 5,000, we shared about the people who we know to be generous. Then we considered our own gifts and offered them to share.

All ages are invited to join us at the next Generous Together gathering on Sunday, August 23, 10:45am in Grounds for Joy.

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Announcements

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

It’s almost time for VBS 2026! VBS I Spy: Operation Believe is next week, July 20-23. Dinner is served at 5pm and programming runs from 6-7:30pm. Bethlehem will host this shared VBS experience with Centenary Methodist, First Presbyterian and First Congregational UCC. Learn more and sign up on the Facebook event.

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

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

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

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

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Monthly Mission Partner

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

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

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Jerry Williams

Cannon River Lutheran in Welch

United Lutheran in Red Wing

Trinity Lutheran in Wanamingo

North Blue Earth Lutheran in Bricelyn

Mijuhu Lutheran in Tanzania

Nzega Lutheran in Tanzania

Tyeme Lutheran Church & Dispensary in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

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

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

Hello Bethlehem,

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

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Announcements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Monthly Mission Partner

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

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

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Jerry Williams

First Lutheran in LeSueur

Bricelyn Lutheran in Bricelyn

Grace Lutheran in Nerstrand

St. John Lutheran in Owatonna

Kiyangiri Lutheran in Tanzania

Iglesia San Lucas Lutheran in Colombia

Nguony Keel Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Lectionary Readings

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

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

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