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

Hello Bethlehem,

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

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

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Announcements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Monthly Mission Partner

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

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

Our July Monthly Mission Partner will be Global Health Ministries.

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Jean Lorentz

Jerry Williams

The family & friends of Earl Peterson

Trinity Lutheran in Albert Lea

Bear Creek Lutheran in Grand Meadow

Lands Lutheran in Zumbrota

Gumanga Lutheran in Tanzania

Ihanja Lutheran in Tanzania

Nkuhi Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

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

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

Hello Bethlehem,

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

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Announcements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Monthly Mission Partner

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

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

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

The family & friends of Gerald “Jerry” Bastian

Grace Lutheran in Albert Lea

Messiah Lutheran in North Mankato

Union Prairie Lutheran in Lanesboro

Jackson Lake Lutheran in Amboy

Pulroaa Lutheran Parish in South Sudan

Kijota Lutheran in Tanzania

San Pedro Lutheran in Colombia

Lectionary Readings

June 28, Matthew 10: 40-42

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

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

Hello Bethlehem,

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

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Announcements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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volunteer opportunities

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

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

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

---

Monthly Mission Partner

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

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

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This Week in our Prayers

Curt Halvorson

Marian Mallory

Paul Haugesag

Amy Grams Haugesag

Nikolas Perez

Roger Pipes

Loren Roberts

Pat Nelson

Jan Boyum

Jerry Williams

Ron Hawker

The family & friends of Gerald “Jerry” Bastian

Deer Creek Valley Lutheran in Glenville

Christ Lutheran in Byron

Bethlehem Lutheran in Lanesboro

Neema Mpipiti Lutheran in Tanzania

Isanzu Lutheran Church & Dispensary in Tanzania

Iguguno Lutheran in Tanzania

Lectionary Readings

June 21, Matthew 10: 24-39

June 28, Matthew 10: 40-42

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

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