Bethany Lutheran Church Volume 12, Issue 1 SEPTEMBER ……Nearly 300 Bethany households have made...
12
Volume 12, Issue 1 The Chimes is published monthly by Bethany Lutheran Church A Great Commission Congregation 4644 Clark Avenue Long Beach, CA 90808 (562) 421-4711 www.bethanylutheran.org Bethany Lutheran Church Staff: Kevin Kritzer Senior Pastor Seth Moorman Pastor of Family Life & Youth Carol McDaniel Minister of Music Karl Fink DCE: Care Ministry Mary Fink School Principal Mary Wolfinbarger Preschool Director Kayleigh Belvery Minister of Youth Submit monthly articles to Aimee Coleman, ext. 20 [email protected] SEPTEMBER 2017 The Bethany Blueprint Re-formation: A Church Ever Reforming…The Truth Never Changing We are mere weeks away from celebrating The Reformation’s quincentenary. It has been 500 years since Luther posted the 95 theses to the Castle Church doors in Wittenberg. The results of the Reformation are far ranging: from the beginning of the end of the Holy Roman Empire, the start of Nationalism throughout Europe, the establishment of a common German Language and the foundational principles of concepts that we enjoy today such as the separation of powers, kingdoms of the “right” and “left” (i.e. church and state), individual liberties and rights and capitalism. Yet, the true genius and most important work of the Reformation lies in the simple restoration of the Gospel to its rightful place and right understanding: That one is saved by grace alone, through faith alone, for Christ’s sake alone, apart from works of the law; and that this is most certainly true for it is the teaching of Scripture which alone is the source of what Christians are to believe and how Christians are to behave. Thus the Reformation is not just something that happened in time but something that ought continually happen in, to and through us. Our Parish Theme this year: Re-formation: A Church Ever Reforming...The Truth Never Changing will take us deeper into God’s Word and these truths restored 500 years ago that resonate within us every day. Our Parish Theme will direct our Sunday worship from September 17 th through November 1 st to focus on concepts such as: Sept. 17 - What Does This Mean? True Wisdom isn’t in knowing, but in asking One who knows! Sept. 24 - The Loneliness of the Law Oct. 1 - Christ Alone! Oct. 8 - Scripture Alone! Oct. 15 - Grace Alone! Oct. 22 - Faith Alone! Oct. 29 - To God Alone be the Glory! (Reformation Day) Nov. 5 - Never Alone! (All Saints Day) Nearly 300 Bethany households have made commitments for (or already given to) our Renaissance. A total of $2,4600,000 has been committed to our Renaissance thus far. To date a total of $797,600 has been received with another $1,662,400 over the next three years. If you and your household new to Bethany or have not yet had the opportunity to make a commitment please watch our campaign video (if you are reading this electronically* click HERE ) and prayerfully consider how the Lord might use you in His Renaissance of souls and sacred spaces here at Bethany. *If you are not reading this electronically copy/paste this into your internet browser to view video: https://vimeo.com/203911883
Transcript of Bethany Lutheran Church Volume 12, Issue 1 SEPTEMBER ……Nearly 300 Bethany households have made...
Volume 12, Issue 1
The Chimes is published
monthly by
Bethany Lutheran Church
A Great Commission
Congregation
4644 Clark Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90808
(562) 421-4711
www.bethanylutheran.org
Bethany Lutheran Church
Staff:
Kevin Kritzer Senior Pastor
Seth Moorman Pastor of Family Life & Youth
Carol McDaniel Minister of Music
Karl Fink DCE: Care Ministry
Mary Fink School Principal
Mary Wolfinbarger Preschool Director
Kayleigh Belvery Minister of Youth
Submit monthly articles to Aimee Coleman, ext. 20
SEPTEMBER 2017
The Bethany Blueprint
Re-formation: A Church Ever Reforming…The Truth Never Changing
We are mere weeks away from celebrating The Reformation’s quincentenary. It has been 500 years since Luther posted the 95 theses to the Castle Church doors in Wittenberg. The results of the Reformation are far ranging: from the beginning of the end of the Holy Roman Empire, the start of Nationalism throughout Europe, the establishment of a common German Language and the foundational principles of concepts that we enjoy today such as the separation of powers, kingdoms of the “right” and “left” (i.e. church and state), individual liberties and rights and capitalism. Yet, the true genius and most important work of the Reformation lies in the simple restoration of the Gospel to its rightful place and right understanding: That one is saved by grace alone, through faith alone, for Christ’s sake alone, apart from works of the law; and that this is most certainly true for it is the teaching of Scripture which alone is the source of what Christians are to believe and how Christians are to behave.
Thus the Reformation is not just something that happened in time but something that ought continually happen in, to and through us.
Our Parish Theme this year: Re-formation: A Church Ever Reforming...The Truth Never Changing will take us deeper into God’s Word and these truths restored 500 years ago that resonate within us every day.
Our Parish Theme will direct our Sunday worship from September 17th through November 1st to focus on concepts such as:
Sept. 17 - What Does This Mean? True Wisdom isn’t in knowing, but in asking One who knows! Sept. 24 - The Loneliness of the Law Oct. 1 - Christ Alone! Oct. 8 - Scripture Alone! Oct. 15 - Grace Alone! Oct. 22 - Faith Alone! Oct. 29 - To God Alone be the Glory! (Reformation Day) Nov. 5 - Never Alone! (All Saints Day) Nearly 300 Bethany households have made commitments for (or already given to) our Renaissance. A total of $2,4600,000 has been committed to our Renaissance thus far. To date a total of $797,600 has been received with another $1,662,400 over the next three years. If you and your household new to Bethany or have not yet had the opportunity to make a commitment please watch our campaign video (if you are reading this electronically* click HERE) and prayerfully consider how the Lord might use you in His Renaissance of souls and sacred spaces here at Bethany.
*If you are not reading this electronically copy/paste this into your internet browser to view video: https://vimeo.com/203911883
PAGE 2 CHIMES VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1
Sunday Morning Adult
Bible Discovery:
Starting Sunday, September 17th our Sunday morning Adult Bible Discovery will focus on the teachings and events of the Reformation and the restoration of the Gospel and Scripture to its rightful place among God’s people. So IMPORTANT is the Reformation for us a God’s people, so central to our faith, so formative for our spirits and discipleship, and so wonderful that we are here to celebrate its 500th anni-versary that we will host our study and Sunday morning Adult Bible Discovery TWICE each Sunday at both 9:30AM and 10:55AM from September 17th through October 1st. Of course, at 9:30AM our children will already be attending Kid’s Bible Discovery. However, as we want to afford everyone the opportunity to attend this THREE week series we will also have children’s activity at 10:55AM so parents who worship at 9:30AM can attend, “A Man Named Martin.” All sessions will be held in Choir Room. Check out this promo video: https://www.lhm.org/studies/studyvideofull.asp?id=27156
ReFuel & Living Way
Begin October 4th!
ReFuel: ReFuel is a worship gathering centered around Song & Supper (the Lord’s Supper). ReFuel, as it’s name states, is an opportunity to recharge the spirit which is so easily emptied by the daily grind and chaotic world. Weekly ReFuel hits us right when we need that refreshment most, midweek...3 days removed from the last Lord’s Day and 4 days until the next Lord’s Day.
ReFuel begins on October 4th at 6:30PM and ends at 7:00PM. While the worship components of ReFuel will vary, the constants of Song & Supper will remain a source of ReFueling for wearied spirits needing renewal.
Living Way: “It is probably safe to say that nowhere is sin more vigorously renounced than in Penitential Psalms of David; and nowhere does Christian character shine more gloriously than in David’s attitude towards his own transgressions. The depth of his contrition explains the height of his elation and the breath of his relief as he ponders and embraces the promise deliverance in the Messiah.” Those words were written by the sainted Rev. Arnie Kuntz. Pastor Kuntz is also the author of our Living Way study this year, the Penitential and Messianic Psalms of David. Pastor Kuntz served as President of the Southern California District and Sr. Pastor of Bethany Lutheran Church, Long Beach.
Our first session will be October 4th. Living Way begins at 7:00PM, following ReFuel worship.
If you’d like to join us for Living Way please email Pr. Kevin ([email protected]) and he will send you the electronic copy of our study. We will be doing Lesson 1, which is Psalm 6, on October 4th and thus you’ll have homework prior to our first session of Living Way.
Confirmation News:
Informational Meeting for Students (gr.6-8) & their Parents - Wednesday, September 6 @ 7:15PM First Day of Class - Wednesday, September 27 @ 6:30PM
May God bless you as you begin the a new school year and as you continue in your faithful worship of our
Heavenly Father!
Kayleigh Belvery, DCE [email protected]
Share the Faith! Save the date for a one day workshop to help strengthen your faith and help prepare you to intentionally share the story of salvation on Saturday, September 9th from 9:00AM-12:30PM. Lunch will be provided. Our guest speaker this year will be Pastor Jonathan Ruehs who serves at Concordia University in Irvine. The theme for this event will be, “Can I get a Witness? Vocation, Communication, and Sharing Your Faith." Pastor Ruehs will be talking about how you can share your faith in the context and through the vocation where God has already placed you. This event is totally FREE but please RSVP to Pastor Seth ([email protected]) so we have enough food for lunch.
SUNDAY Morning/Afternoon:
Lessons of the Day: Every Sunday morning with John Schinnerer at 9:30AM in the School Library. This study highlights the readings/lesson of the day.
Sunday Morning Adult Bible Discovery: Starting on Sunday, September 17th Sunday Morning Adult Bible Discovery happens TWICE each Sunday at both 9:30AM and 10:55AM from September 17th through October 1st. All sessions will be held in Choir Room. More details...see article on page 2.
GriefShare Update: Our next GriefShare classes started on August 27th. We are meeting on Sunday Afternoons, starting at 1:00PM in the Conference Room. If you know of anyone who is experiencing grief of any kind, please invite them to these classes. It is not too late to join us! If you have any questions regarding the GriefShare program, please contact me in my office or via email. May God continue to hold you during these times of grief. - Karl Fink
WEDNESDAY Evening:
ReFuel: ReFuel begins on October 4th at 6:30PM and ends at 7:00PM. While the worship components of ReFuel will vary, the constants of Song & Supper will remain a source of ReFueling for wearied spirits needing renewal. More details...see article on page 2.
Living Way: Our first session will be October 4th. Living Way begins at 7:00PM, following ReFuel worship. If you’d like to join us for Living Way please email Pr. Kevin ([email protected]) and he will send you the electronic copy of our study. We will be doing Lesson 1, which is Psalm 6, on October 4th and thus you’ll have homework prior to our first session of Living Way. More details...see article on page 2.
THURSDAY Morning:
Men's Bible Study meets from 6:00-7:00AM Thursdays in the Parish Lounge. *If you need to leave earlier for work, no problem! We‘re always looking for new men to join us, so as your schedule allows consider meeting with us as we study God‘s Good Word, fellowship, & pray together. We are currently in the book of Genesis so just bring your Bible and join us!
Women's Thursday Morning Bible Study: The Women's Thursday Morning Bible Study will resume on September 21 in the Parish Lounge. We meet from 9:15-11:00AM each Thursday; and our first Bible Study will be the Gos-
Adult Bible Studies for SEPTEMBER
PAGE 3 CHIMES VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1
pel of Mark. Come try us out. This is an excellent place to learn more about the Bible and get to know many wonder-ful women. If you have any questions, call Meg Velez (562) 426-4262. Hope to see you soon!
SATURDAY Morning:
Share the Faith: Saturday, September 9 from 9:00AM to 12:30PM. More details...see article on page 2.
Men’s Breakfast/Bible Study: I continue to invite all men of the Congregation to our Saturday morning study and prayer breakfast on Saturday, September 16, 8:00–9:30AM. We meet in the Parish Lounge to enjoy a tasty breakfast, do an hour long study (currently in the Gospel of John), and spend some time in prayer as a group. Thanks for your continued prayers and your participation!
Another Study Opportunity:
Read the Bible! Challenge yourself to read the entire Bible. It will take hard work and discipline, but the benefits are eternal. Purchase The One Year Bible in a version that is easy for you to read. These books arrange the text of the Bible into 365 daily readings. Each day in The One Year Bible you will find a selection from the Old Testa-ment, one from the New Testament, a portion from the Psalms, and a selection from the book of Proverbs. Each week there will be a study posted on the Bethany blog (www.bethanylutheran.blogspot.com) to help you stay on track and to communicate insights or ask questions.
Contact Pastor Seth ([email protected]).
Matthew 18:20
For where two or three
gather in my name,
there am I with them.
PAGE 4 CHIMES VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1
DCE Care Ministry News Karl Fink-DCE, ext. 19
Community Food Bank Thanks: Thanks to all of you who have made monetary donations to our Food Bank! We are blessed to be able to share with those who are in need because of your generosity. As able, please continue this spirit of generosity during the coming year, as we do have many people who are in need! God bless you all!
Brianna Esswein Memorial Golf Tourney: It is time to SAVE THE DATE for our tourney in the Spring! We plan to golf on Friday afternoon, March 16, at Lakewood Country Club. Our shot-gun start will be at 1:00PM with a dinner and raffle to follow. Should you have any questions at this point, please let me know. As always, thanks for your support of this event! Kindly get this on your calendars NOW so we can fill the course!
In Christ, Karl Fink
Director of Christian Education
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
—Psalm 51:10
Children’s Ministry - Club 35 News… Faustino Munoz—DCE, Inter
*Preferred Method of Contact -*Text Messages: (630)632-0989
Club 35 Survey: DCE Intern Faustino Munoz is taking over Club 35 this fall! Club 35 is ministry for children in 3rd-5th grade. Club 35 will teach children about Jesus and His love, encourage them to spend time in God’s Word, and help them to grow in their faith while fostering fun and fellowship. Please take a few moments fill out this short survey to make Club 35 the best it can be! Click HERE to take the survey or copy/paste this into your browser: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RG6HBPG.
Club 35 will meet from 6:30-8:30PM in the Multipurpose Room #215 on the first & third Wednesdays of each month. We will worship and praise God together, spend time in His Word, and grow in fellowship with each other. Club 35 will teach children about Jesus and His love, encourage them to spend time in God’s Word, and help them to grow in their faith while fostering fun and fellowship. Children will learn what it means to be a part of a group that loves them unconditionally as Christ has so loved us. In addition to Club 35 nights, there will also be a monthly event for all Club 35 families to enjoy with each other. More information is to come.
Club 35 will meet on the following dates: October 4 & 18, November 1 & 15, December 6* & 20*, January 3 & 17, February 7 & 21*, March 7* & 21*, April 4 & 18, May 2 & 16 and June 6. *During the season of Advent & Lent, we will be meeting from 5:45-6:45PM.
Parents, while your child is growing in faith, it is encouraged that you do the same! Living Way Bible Study takes place at 7:30PM in the Parish Lounge. This study is led by Pr. Kritzer ([email protected]).
As the calendar flips to September it brings with it a wave of new opportunities and experiences. For most students, classes have begun and the excitement of a new grade, a new school, or a new lunchbox brings butterflies to the stomach. For parents, the new school year comes with new routines, new schedules, and new challenges as well. With all of this new stuff it is comforting to know that our God doesn’t change.
“I, the Lord, never change.” (Malachi 3:6a) “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Heb.13:8)
The things of this world are constantly changing, but in a world full of changes we have a God who stays the same. His desire is that you know His love found in the person and work of Jesus for you.
If Worshiping Faithfully is not part of your regular routine, please join us this fall in worship. If Forming Spiritually is something you have been wanted to start, check out pages 2 & 3 and find a class that works for you. We have classes for all ages including our brand new Bible Discovery (see page 8) on Sunday morning for grades PreK- 8th.
If there is anything I can do, please don’t hesitate to ask.
-Pastor Seth
Family Ministry Moment Pr. Seth Moorman-Pastor of Family Life & Youth, ext. 13
PAGE 5 CHIMES VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1
Bethany Youth Ministry News...
MSG (Middle School Group 6th- 8th Grade)
We are back in FULL swing and there are many opportunities offered to the Middle School Group for Spiritual Formation.
Sunday Mornings at 9:15AM for Bible Discovery; this begins September 17th.
Tuesday Afternoons at 3:30PM in the Youth Room for CONNECT beginning in October.
Wednesday Evenings at 6:30PM for Confirmation. This program begins September 27th.
All information for these events can be found on the Bethany Website.
High School Youth Group (gr. 9-12)
Our High School Group meets mainly in the Youth Room. We meet Sunday morning for breakfast, highs & lows, and a Bible study. Sunday evenings for Youth Group. There will be a more in depth study accompanied by food, bonding, games, etc. You are welcome to join us anytime and are encouraged to bring friends.
SEPTEMBER 2017: Sunday, September 3 - NO High School Bible Discovery and NO High School Youth Group - Labor Day Weekend
Sunday, September 10 - NO High School Bible Discovery High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM)
Sunday, September 17 - High School Bible Discovery (9:30- 10:30AM) High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM)
Sunday, September 24 - High School Bible Discovery (9:30- 10:30AM) High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM)
OCTOBER 2017: Sunday, October 1 - High School Bible Discovery (9:30-10:30AM) High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM)
Sunday, October 8 - High School Bible Discovery (9:30-10:30AM) High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM)
Sunday, October 15 - High School Bible Discovery (9:30- 10:30AM) High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM)
Sunday, October 22 - High School Bible Discovery (9:30- 10:30AM) High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM)
Sunday, October 29 - High School Bible Discovery (9:30- 10:30AM) High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM)
*Dates & events are subject to change. You will be contacted with any of those changes.
Social Media Website: www.bethanylutheran.org
Facebook: High School - Bethany Lutheran High School Youth
College - Anchor *Both pages can be found through Bethany Lutheran Church’s Facebook page.
Apps: Church - Bethany Lutheran Church - Long Beach
School - Bethany Lutheran School - Long Beach *Both apps can be found in Googleplay or the App Store
High School Youth...Other Social Media: Instagram: Bethany_hsg Twitter: Bethany_hsg
Kayleigh Belvery—Minister of Youth, (562) 421-4711, ext. 18
*Preferred Method of Contact -*Text Messages: (309) 397-6583
Anchor (College Age) During the school year there will not be a set Bible Study time. INSTEAD, beginning in September, I (Kayleigh Belvery) will be stationing myself at the Starbucks on Candlewood in Lakewood for an extended amount of time twice a month.
During these times anybody in ANCHOR is welcome to join me for a cup of coffee. We can talk about life and school, pray, have a small devotion, discuss theological ideas, Scripture, etc. This is your time to get away from your busy schedules for a little bit and share in Christian fellowship.
I know your schedules are busy so this is your time...stay as long as you want, come when you can!
I will text out the times and dates each month as well as put them on Social Media. If you would like to receive these text messages please get in touch with me!
PAGE 6 CHIMES VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1
Bethany’s Preschool: Tricycle Tidings Bethany Lutheran Preschool exists:
“To provide quality Christian early childhood education in a safe, loving and caring atmosphere; daily teaching God’s forgiveness and love through our Savior, Jesus Christ.”
Mary Wolfinbarger, Preschool Director, ext. 22
We are excited to be starting a new school year on August 28. We have a very gifted staff, made up of loving Christian women.
Jennifer DeJongh – Transitional K Teacher
Angela Bardeleben – Pre-K Teacher
Belinda Padias – Outside Teacher
Kara Bowman – Older 3 Year Old Teacher
Mandy Gunsolus – 3 Year Old Teacher
Debbie Lang-Preuss – Younger 3 Year Old Teacher
Lauren Joanes/Debbie Burns – 2 Year Old Teachers
Alicia Lagana, Leticia Perez, Vannessa Contreras, Jessica Zuniga, Eileen Luna, Christina Schilb – Teachers’ Assistants
Mary Wolfinbarger - Director
Fall classes for children ages 2 through entrance to Kindergarten begin August 28. Please contact the director, Mary Wolfinbarger, for more information on the center or to schedule an appointment for a tour, at (562) 429-7335 or [email protected]. You can also visit our website at www.bethanylutheran.org.
Upcoming Dates Include: August 23 @ 6:00PM – Meet the Teacher Open House
August 28 – First day of school
September 4 – Preschool closed in observance of Labor Day
September 6 – New Parent Orientation
It’s A New School Year! And Bethany Lutheran Kindergarten – 8th Grade and Preschool are happy to be back on campus! The new year has begun and students are settling into their classes. We’re thrilled to be getting to know many new students and families, and to welcome back our returning students and families. We already have an active September planned with a New Parent Orientation on September 6; a PTL-sponsored Bonfire on September 8; and School Photos on September 15. In addition, our 7th graders will head to the Catalina Island Marine Institute for a week of marine biology camp! We do still have a a few spaces available in a some of our classes, so if you know of anyone who needs a quality preschool and day care for their 2 year old – Transitional Kindergarten student, or is looking for a first class, Christian based Kindergarten – 8th grade school, please have them contact Kathy Tucker, Admissions Director, at 562/420-7783, ext. 54, or [email protected]. Thanks so much!
Bethany Lutheran School News... Dr. Mary Fink-School Principal, ext. 17
*Christ-centered *Academically Strong
*Respectfully Operated *Fully Accredited
PAGE 7 CHIMES VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1
“Timeless Truth in a Changing World”: That’s our theme for the school year. As we celebrate the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, we remember that it’s still all about Jesus, and our school ministry is an echo of the work begun so long ago. It’s time for school! We are excited to begin another year of excellent Christian education at Bethany Lutheran School! God is so good, and we are so blessed...once again we have more students than we did last year!!! We still have room in Grades 5-7, so if you know someone who is looking for an excellent Christian education, send them our way. Who are our dedicated servants in the dayschool this year? The K-8 School Staff: Kindergarten Mrs. Jeanette Dahlin Music Teachers: Dr. Carol McDaniel First Grade Mrs. Lori Lange Mr. Kevin Bowers Second Grade Miss Stefanie Hinrichs Third Grade Mrs. Chris Boerrigter EDC Director Ms. Carlota Brown Fourth Grade Ms. Kim Imes School Librarian Mrs. Georgia Price Fifth Grade Mrs. Diana Orr School Secretary Ms. Lynne Charette Middle School History Mr. Andrew Morner Admissions Director Ms. Kathy Tucker Middle School Math Miss Abby Einspahr Financial Administrator Mrs. Maraley Shaeffer Middle School English Mrs. Tasha Schuldheisz Scrip Coordinator Mrs. Carol Grudt Middle School Science Mrs. Bonnie Neally Principal Dr. Mary Fink Middle School Spanish Senora Patty Siegman Senior Pastor Rev. Kevin Kritzer Technology Coord. Ms. Cheryl Stejskal Pastor of Family Life Rev. Seth Moorman Student Success: Mrs. Connie Kritzer AD and DCE Mr. Karl Fink Mrs. Jill Moorman Minister of Music Dr. Carol McDaniel Mrs. Sarah O’Conner Minister of Youth Miss Kayleigh Belvery Classroom Aides: Mrs. Jennifer Petay DCE Intern Mr. Faustino Munoz Mrs. Erika Alvarado Custodian Mr. Steven Lee Mrs. Laura Crahan Mrs. Camille Ayers THANK YOU! WE OWE A DEBT OF GRATITUDE to the Sharon Maxwell estate for continuing to fund our counseling program. Sharon was a teacher here at Bethany and we are so grateful to her family for honoring Sharon’s memory this way. We also owe a debt of gratitude to LaVerne Fischer, now at home with Jesus, and to many other generous donors like the members of the recently closed Our Savior’s Lutheran-Bellflower, who remembered our school and designated a portion of their financial gifts to be used for Bethany Lutheran School scholarships. What a blessing to be able to help families who need financial assistance to send their children to a Christian school, and what a legacy these saints have left us. Your partnership is a blessing! In Thessalonians, Paul writes, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up…” It’s our task, as the body of Christ, to support each other in our work for the Kingdom. Once again, I am asking you to encourage our teaching staff in their mission this school year. You can do this by sending them a note or an email (addresses are on our website: www.bethanylutheran.org) and by holding them up in a prayer. Serving the Savior with you, Mary Fink
PAGE 8 CHIMES VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1
VBS Reunion Make your plans to join us on Sunday, September 10th at 9:30 AM for a VBS reunion! We invite you all back to the factory and sing some VBS songs, and learn more about how our God, the Maker has created us as His special creations. You won’t want to miss this. If you attended our VBS program we will have a special gift for you. If you didn’t attend our VBS we still want you to be a part of the fun. See you there!!
Family
Park & Pool Day
Save the date! Our annual Family Park and Pool day will take place on Sunday, September 17th from 6:00-8:30PM at Mayfair Park. We will start with a picnic in the park and end the evening in the pool with fun and games. Cost is $5 per person ($20 Max per family). RSVP today with Pastor Seth ([email protected]).
Bible Discovery Is Coming!! This fall our Sunday morning spiritual formation opportunities for all ages will be all about discovering the truths found in the pages of the Bible. Preschool kids will have their own special class where they will learn about the great stories of the Bible. Kids in Kindergarten through 8th grade will meet in the GYM every Sunday at 9:15AM beginning September
17th for an awesome new program which includes: -Opening games -Singing and Praise -Large group lesson -Small group connection -Prayer time -Fun Activities & Challenges for every age level High School students will meet in the Youth Center for Bible Study Adults will meet for thematic studies in the choir room. Most months we will have a Serving Passionately Sunday where all ages come together to serve others and share the blessings we have in Christ. You won’t want to miss this all-new, exciting time of discovery, adventure, fun and formation for all ages. We can’t wait for you to be a part of this!
Bible Discovery Needs You! Our new Bible Discovery program is in need of volunteers willing to assist in the discovery process. Roles we need to fill:
Registration and Check In Coordinators - Help facilitate check in and out of all students; help take attendance, count offering and answer questions for parents and kids.
Small Group Leaders - Must be comfortable working with children; willing to facilitate group discussion, questions, and
challenges that will enable the group to grow deeper in their walk with Christ; does NOT need to be able to answer any and all questions children might ask but be willing to seek guidance and/or answers from Bethany staff members; no previous experience necessary; must submit to a background check.
Service Coordinators - Help organize and implement a monthly service opportunity for all ages in Bible Discovery.
Prayer Partners - Willing to pray for the kids and volunteers regularly and to pray for any specific prayer requests that may arise.
Song or Music Leaders - Help lead our weekly time of singing and praise with voice or instrument.
PAGE 9 CHIMES VOLUME 12 ISSUE 1
Come support Mission Guatemala with a fun new fundraising event
Bourbon, Whiskey & Scotch Tasting and Education Night
Tickets: $50 per person
Date: Saturday, September 16, 2017
Place: The Silverman’s Home
Time: 6:00p.m.-10:30p.m.
Tasting and Education starts at 6:30p.m. sharp
Food, Live Entertainment, and Merriment to follow.
*Beer & Wine will also be served.
Raise A Glass for Student Success!
Our annual even is planned for Saturday, October 21, 2017! RAG is the annual fund raising event for Bethany’s Student Success Program! Please add this date to you calendar and plan to also extend an invitation to other friends and family to celebrate and support Student Success. We will have a great new venue at the Gaslamp Restaurant in Long Beach, an amazing assortment of unique auction items, and a delightful afternoon to “raise a glass” with other “Friends of Student Success”! Ticket sales are planned following Sunday worship services on September 24, October 1, 8, & 15! For information about SSP, please contact Jill Moorman at [email protected]. See you there!
Raise A Glass - Donation Opportunities: With only a few months before our great event, we are hoping to get your donations confirmed quickly. Student Success has been incredibly blessed by the generous hearts of many of our “Student Success friends”, and hope that you would be prompted to participate for the 2017 RAG.
During each Raise A Glass event, we have held silent & live auctions, as well as “opportunity” drawings for variety of great items. Donations have covered an assortment of unique and exciting ideas including vacations getaways, mountain cabin retreats, tickets to theater, comedy clubs, and sporting events, custom gift baskets, bottles of fine wine, distinctive jewelry, restaurant gift certificates, passes to local amusement parks, hosted wine dinners and pool parties, cooking classes, rounds of golf, spa and beauty packages, handmade quilts, sports collectibles, electronic readers, TV’s, and much more.
We welcome your special creative donations and appreciate any direct financial contributions, as well! Our hope is that you will confirm your generous donation ASAP so that we can help effectively support the efforts of the Bethany Lutheran School Student Success Program. If you are interested in donating, please contact Sheri Esswein (714) 863-5615.
PAGE 10 CHIMES VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1
2017-2018 Church Officers and Boards Church Council President: John Holmquist Vice-President: Gary McDaniel Council Secretary: Cheryl Stejskal Treasurer: Rick Hoting Historian: Felix Rivera Board of Elders Board of Trustees Board of Youth Board of Admin./Finance Joey Cerulle** Gerrit DeJongh** Andrew Andersen** Teresa Ivins** Jonathan Widmann* Wayne Choate* Mark Donham** Madeline Smith (secretary) Matt Bordoni (secretary) Ryan Bowman Laura Angle Emily Chartier Morgan Angle Mike Carlson Matt Batezel Joyce Klenner Drew Bardeleben Richard Dana Angela Castlen Ed Lohr Craig Breit Craig Dean Jennifer DeJongh Bob Radtke Marty Callow Scott Dean Shelly Donham Matt Ruiz Jim Friedrichs Neal Hasty Abby Einspahr Rick Smith Pat Gagan Ben Lopez Clayton Kritzer Peter Velez Mark Hansen Phil Lopez Jeff Leeds Mark Hennings Clark Pearson Community Impact Jonathan Ludwig David Rathke Board of Discipleship Randa Pearson** Brian McGrath Felix Rivera Bob Newell** Ted Pearson Frank McNeel Mike Yocam Bill Conley* Dan Esswein Ron Miner Sam Gierhan (Honorary) Marlene Mooney (secretary) Mary Kay Esswein Doug Morlok Pam Bessolo Alice Hansen David Porte Board of Schools Chris Ford Mark Hansen Jim Smith Kent Ryskamp** Earl Lippold Marilyn Riordan Ron Svarc Carrie Evans* Charlene Mitchell Paul Evans Jim Swick Cindy Morlok (secretary) Norma Morris Lynda Kernohan John Utke Greg Goebel Diana Orr Katie Musick Kevin Kabacinski Mary Price Board of Evangelism Sue Swick Gayle Schultz Susan Breit** Nola Seaman Janice Martin** Endowment Committee Josh Silverman Louana Dean (secretary) Mike Riordan** Renee Svarc Pamela Brehm Tracy Hunter **Board Chairperson Celena McDermott Claude Potter *Vice-Chairperson Larry Miller Bob Radtke Sarah O’Conner Rick Smith Jerry Stock
Bethany Lutheran Music Academy: The Music Academy was established in 1990 to provide extra-curricular music instruction to all children associated with Bethany Lutheran Church and School. This is an after school program with instruction taking place on the Bethany campus, Monday - Friday between 3:15 and 6:30PM. We have Christian instructors who are professionals in their field. There are twelve weekly lessons scheduled each semester; fall semester begins Monday, September 18th. Tuition: $275 plus $25 annual registration fee. Students may select from the following instruments: piano (2nd grade and up) and trumpet (4th and up). Brochures and enrollment forms may be picked up in the school or church offices; you may also go online to: www.bethanylutheran.org to download your enrollment form. Enrollment is now open through Monday, September 11. Forms are due no later than Monday, September 11. Questions? Contact Academy Administrator, Mara Widmann at [email protected] or 562-421-4711 ext. 55.
PAGE 11 CHIMES VOLUME 12, ISSUE 1
Community Impact Update…
Free to be Faithful Newsletter of Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (and you may have already read this in other pub-lished accounts) informs us that the US Supreme Court ruled 7-2 in favor of Trinity Lutheran Church (LCMS) of Co-lumbia, MO that they were eligible for a state grant program for improvements to their playground. Their preschool had been deemed ineligible for a state grant program solely be-cause the preschool is operated by a church. This ruling has positive implications for religious liberty; lcms.org/free-to-be-faithful.
Lutheran Center for Religious Liberty will have an office in Washington DC. This center’s mission statement is to “ignite and fuel a uniquely Lutheran response to increasing intru-sions, limitations and challenges by the government in the life of the church, while educating, encouraging and equipping LCMS member and organizations to take informed action in support of marriage, life and religious freedom.” The newslet-ter informs us that Rev. Dr. Gregory P. “Greg” Seltz, speaker for “The Lutheran Hour”, has officially accepted the Synod’s call to be the first executive director of this new center; lcms.org/lutheran-center-for-religious-liberty.
FYI: You may enjoy LCMS’s Reporter Newspaper. It is one of two official periodicals (the other is The Lutheran Wit-ness). The church office may have one to preview. Subscrip-tions are $15/yr. Visit blogs.lcms.org/subscribe-to-reporter or call 314-996-1202.
-Community Impact Committee
Another Way to Give to the Renaissance
You can donate to our Renaissance by purchasing Scrip/gift cards for your grocery shopping, dining out, and other regular spending. Bethany purchases the Scrip/gift cards at a discount, and you can donate the profit form your Scrip purchase to our Renaissance. The Renaissance has been included on the Scrip Order form as a rebate designation, and earnings from Scrip purchases have already been donated to the Renaissance. It’s easy to increase your Renais-sance donation when you purchase Scrip/gift cards for the grocery store, restaurants and retail stores. Please stop at the Scrip table if you have questions about Scrip.
Men’s Retreat 2017: Save the date for our annual men’s retreat that will take place October 6-8 at Luther Glen Retreat Center in Oak Glen CA. The cost for this weekend event is $200 which includes two nights lodging (double or triple occupancy), four meals as well as snacks and program costs.
RSVP today by sending Pastor Seth an email ([email protected]). Sign-ups in Friendship Square begin September 17th. A deposit of $100 will save your spot. Our theme will be announced soon!
Church Office Closed: Monday, September 4 for Labor Day holiday.
OCTOBER Newsletter Deadline: Please submit articles to Aimee Coleman ([email protected]) by FRIDAY, September 15 for the October Newsletter.
Electronic Giving: By giving electronically, the amount you designate will be withdrawn automatically from your checking or savings account on the date(s) you specify. You can ensure that Bethany gets your contribution on a regular basis, even when you're on vacation. To sign up, go to www.bethanylutheran.org, click on "Electronic Giving" on the left side of the page. Then follow the easy prompts.
Mission India meeting schedule now through Novem-ber... We will not meet for the month of October and will meet September and November. - Pr. Jacob
Additional News & Notes...
Save the Date -
Sunday, October 29th!
In celebration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation make your plans to join us on Sunday, October 29th for a traditional Oktoberfest event. Activities include our pumpkin patch carnival games, a traditional German feast with all the trim-mings, live entertainment, fun and fellowship with the Bethany family. More details will be coming soon. You won’t want to miss this celebration that is 500 years in the making!!
4644 Clark Ave.
Long Beach, CA 90808
BETHANY LUTHERAN CHU RCH
*Please see the SEPTEMBER Calendar
for important dates/times.
*An updated weekly calendar
is printed in each Sunday bulletin!
Inside this Issue:
—Parish Theme, p.1
—Bible Discovery, p.2 & 8
—Share the Faith, p.2
—Club 35, p.4
—Youth Ministry news, p.5
—VBS Reunion, p.8
+ MORE!
Join us at Worship!
Sunday: 8AM, 9:30AM, & 10:55AM
Inside this Issue...
Phone: 562-421-4711
FAX: 562-429-1693
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Dated Material—Please Expedite
We are on the WEB! www.bethanylutheran.org
Mailing Address Line 1
Mailing Address Line 2 Mailing Address Line 3
Mailing Address Line 4
Mailing Address Line 5
NON-PROFIT ORG.
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Long Beach, CA
Permit No. 603
September 2017
