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1 Volume 20 Issue 3 MARCH 2 0 2 0 6318 W. California Rd Ft. Wayne, IN 46818 Church: (260) 484-7873 Web page: www.deeplyrootedtogrow.org School: (260) 483-9371 Web page: www.suburbanbethlehem.org The Suburban Bethlehem Star Letter from Pastor Bill page 1 Senior Pastor Chairman’s Note page 4 Finance Secretary page 5 Treasurer page 5 SBLS News page 6 Youth Updates page 7 Bible Studies page 8 Lent Worship Services page 10 SBL Calendar page 13 (insert) Dear Fellow Redeemed: A treasured psalm by many is Psalm 51. This is a prayer first prayed by King David after the prophet Nathan had confronted him about his many sins in the situation with Bathsheba (you can read more about this sad chapter in the life of the great King Da- vid in 2 Samuel 11 and 12). David confesses his sins before God and rejoices in His forgiveness. This psalm is also very appro- priate for us during this Lenten season. Allow me in this space to walk us through some of the powerful phrases and parts of this psalm and offer some additional thoughts. Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge. 5 Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. At first glance it might appear more than just a bit odd that David would confess in vs. 4 that it was against God only that he had sinned. What about Uriah, Bathshe- ba’s husband? Hadn’t David also sinned against him? He took his wife and mur- dered him! David pushes the point, as it were, in this part of the psalm to remind us that ultimately every sin is a sin against God. Just as a sin against the Second Com- mandment, Third Commandment, Fourth Commandment….all the way through the Tenth Commandment, is ultimately a sin against the First Commandment, so is eve- ry sin ultimately a sin against God. No matter who we have hurt, what we have done, no matter how “innocent” our “white lie” is…every sin is a sin against God. David also teaches a powerful lesson in vs. 5. From the very moment that life began for us we have been sinful. There isn’t a point in our lives when we “became” sin- ners or entered into a state of sin. No. From the very moment that the flash of life began at conception we have been sinners. The Apostle Paul picks up on this in the New Testament when he writes we were all dead in transgressions and sin (Ephesians 2:1). This is how desperate the point is for us – we are all sinners, lost without any hope, stuck on ourselves and unable to change our condition. Imagine (continued on page 2) Dates of Interest SBL AUCTION MARCH 14, 2020 Senior High Gathering Days March 1 15

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Volume 20 Issue 3

MARCH 2 0 2 0

6318 W. California Rd

Ft. Wayne, IN 46818

Church: (260) 484-7873

Web page: www.deeplyrootedtogrow.org

School: (260) 483-9371 Web page: www.suburbanbethlehem.org

The Suburban Bethlehem Star

Letter from Pastor Bill page 1 Senior Pastor

Chairman’s Note page 4

Finance Secretary page 5 Treasurer page 5

SBLS News page 6

Youth Updates page 7

Bible Studies page 8

Lent Worship Services page 10

SBL Calendar page 13 (insert)

Dear Fellow Redeemed:

A treasured psalm by many is Psalm 51. This is a prayer first

prayed by King David after the prophet Nathan had confronted

him about his many sins in the situation with Bathsheba (you can

read more about this sad chapter in the life of the great King Da-

vid in 2 Samuel 11 and 12). David confesses his sins before God

and rejoices in His forgiveness. This psalm is also very appro-

priate for us during this Lenten season. Allow me in this space

to walk us through some of the powerful phrases and parts of this

psalm and offer some additional thoughts.

Have mercy on me, O God,

according to your unfailing love;

according to your great compassion

blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash away all my iniquity

and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I know my transgressions,

and my sin is always before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned

and done what is evil in your sight;

so you are right in your verdict

and justified when you judge. 5 Surely I was sinful at birth,

sinful from the time my mother conceived me.

At first glance it might appear more than just a bit odd that David would confess in

vs. 4 that it was against God only that he had sinned. What about Uriah, Bathshe-

ba’s husband? Hadn’t David also sinned against him? He took his wife and mur-

dered him! David pushes the point, as it were, in this part of the psalm to remind us

that ultimately every sin is a sin against God. Just as a sin against the Second Com-

mandment, Third Commandment, Fourth Commandment….all the way through the

Tenth Commandment, is ultimately a sin against the First Commandment, so is eve-

ry sin ultimately a sin against God. No matter who we have hurt, what we have

done, no matter how “innocent” our “white lie” is…every sin is a sin against God.

David also teaches a powerful lesson in vs. 5. From the very moment that life began

for us we have been sinful. There isn’t a point in our lives when we “became” sin-

ners or entered into a state of sin. No. From the very moment that the flash of life

began at conception we have been sinners. The Apostle Paul picks up on this in the

New Testament when he writes we were all dead in transgressions and sin

(Ephesians 2:1). This is how desperate the point is for us – we are all sinners, lost

without any hope, stuck on ourselves and unable to change our condition. Imagine

(continued on page 2)

Dates of Interest SBL AUCTION MARCH 14, 2020

Senior High

Gathering Days March 1 15

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The Suburban Bethlehem Star

how painful this was for David to admit this and confess this. He had broken multiple commandments in his

“situation” with Bathsheba (adultery and murder topping the list) and he was confessing sin has always been the con-

dition of his life. Same for you and me. Keep reading!

7 Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean;

wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear joy and gladness;

let the bones you have crushed rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins

and blot out all my iniquity. 10 Create in me a pure heart, O God,

and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 11 Do not cast me from your presence

or take your Holy Spirit from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation

and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.

God’s forgiveness is more powerful than pure white snow. God’s action of forgiveness blots out our iniquity. For the

sake of Jesus Christ God charges our sins to Him who had no sin (2 Corinthians 5:21) and credits to us the righteous-

ness of Jesus. I have always loved the verb “create” in God’s Word. This is the same verb that Moses uses in Genesis

1 to describe God creating the world. “Ex nihilo” is the Latin phrase we use to describe this creation in Genesis 1.

“Ex nihilo” literally means “out of nothing.” This means God didn’t use any pre-existing matter to create the uni-

verse. He simply spoke it into being.

What a great depiction for us and God’s forgiveness. God’s redemptive forgiveness is so powerful that He doesn’t

merely do a “fix up” job on us – such as bumping out the dents and polishing up that weak spots. No! (For one thing,

that wouldn’t be good enough.) What God does is to create something entire new within us. He creates a pure heart –

a heart that is tuned in to the beat of God’s heart of grace and forgiveness. And because of this forgiveness David re-

joices that God will not take His Holy Spirit from him and will continue to restore to him the joy of salvation. This is

one of the few places in the Old Testament where the phrase “Holy Spirit” is used so directly. God’s Spirit is active

and at work in our lives through this powerful forgiveness!

David concludes his prayer in this way:

13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways,

so that sinners will turn back to you. 14 Deliver me from the guilt of bloodshed, O God,

you who are God my Savior,

and my tongue will sing of your righteousness. 15 Open my lips, Lord,

and my mouth will declare your praise. 16 You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;

you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. 17 My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit;

a broken and contrite heart

you, God, will not despise. 18 May it please you to prosper Zion,

to build up the walls of Jerusalem. 19 Then you will delight in the sacrifices of the righteous,

in burnt offerings offered whole;

then bulls will be offered on your altar.

Notice David becomes an evangelist. Who better to talk about the mercy and grace of God than someone who has

experienced this grace and mercy?! David urges us the same – since we know and have experienced this love of God,

we too can welcome and encourage others to know and believe in this same Savior!

(continued on page 3)

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Special High School Concert Mark your calendars for Thursday, March 12 as SBL will host the musical groups from

Racine Lutheran High School (Racine, Wisconsin) for a special evening concert at 7:00 pm. Racine Lutheran High

School is a sister high school to our own Concordia Lutheran High School. We are also in need of families willing to

host students overnight that Thursday night (includes providing breakfast Friday morning and a sack lunch for that

Friday). If you are interested in hosting students that Thursday evening please contact the church office or email Pas-

tor Bill at [email protected].

“Live – Love – Grow” (New Support Group!) SBL is pleased to add a “Grandparent Support Group” (which we are

calling “Live – Love – Grow”) to its ministry offerings. This support group will meet on the second Tuesday of the

month at 11:00 am in the Upper Room (upstairs meeting room in the Fellowship Hall). There is no cost to this group

– and there are no commitments to make! This group is open to everyone who is concerned about grandparents sig-

nificantly involved in the raising of their grandchildren. February’s meeting is Tuesday, March 10 at 11:00 am in the

Upper Room. February’s topic is “Life Changes.” See you there!

(Acts 16:31)

The Suburban Bethlehem Star

You may recognize vs. 15 as part of some of our traditional liturgies. Much of what we say and use in worship ser-

vices (both traditional and contemporary) are drawn right from the Scriptures. Next time you are in worship, be on

the lookout for how many things are taken from God’s Word. The hymnal version of the worship services also list

the number of Bible passages where parts of the services are resourced.

It might appear there is a contradiction between what David says in vs. 16 and vs. 19. It appears that in vs. 16 he is

saying he isn’t going to go through the routines of Old Testament worship (bringing in sacrifices just for the sake of

sacrifices) but then in vs. 19 he is. There isn’t a contradiction here. What David says in vs. 16 is that he recognizes

there is no “going through the motions” of our relationship with God. You don’t do the ritual for the sake of the ritu-

al. You don’t go to church just for the sake of going to church. You don’t say your prayers at meal time just for the

sake of saying your prayers. Instead, we go to church, we say our prayers (regularly and routinely, I might strongly

add!) because of who the person is we are praying to and worshiping – our Savior and Lord! We are doing this be-

cause Jesus Christ has been so gracious to us. Coming to our God with a broken and contrite heart – a heart that has

been created anew by Him, a heart that focuses upon His grace and forgiveness and not in our ability to perform the

rituals – this is when God delights in the relationship with His forgiven people.

During this Season of Lent I pray God uses His Word, such as Psalm 51, to help us grow closer to Him.

Yours in Jesus,

--Pastor Bill Mueller

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The Suburban Bethlehem Star

Dear SBL Family,

It is my privilege to write to you as your chairman. Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran Church and School are very dear

to me. As many of you know, my wife went through a battle with cancer from 2006-2008, when God called her

home.

This congregation, in Christian love, lifted us and carried us through this difficult time. My daughters were in third

and sixth grads here when Kathryn went to heaven. I will never forget, nor cease to be thankful for all the kindness

and generosity that was showered upon us. Now, I hope to give back, at least in small measure, by serving as your

chairman.

We are now entering the season in which we begin to work on the details of the ministry plan, a.k.a. the budget.

This can be a very challenging time for both leadership and the congregation as a whole. God has indeed presented

us with many generous gifts over the past months. We have some awesome opportunities to assist us in reaching a

balanced budget. Please stay tuned to hear more in the next few weeks.

As always, the council welcomes your feedback “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for

welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

David Reinhard, Chairman

Footprints of Love Outreach Events

In February, we hosted a Valentine’s Party for the women and children at Charis House. It was a great afternoon

filled with Valentine themed games, crafts, stories and of course treats. All were blessed in the fellowship of time to-

gether centered in God’s love. Thanks to all who participated! Check out the opportunities below and to join in leav-

ing “footprints of love” as we take time to make a difference.

March – Community Harvest Foodbank: Saturday, March 14, 8:15am-11:30am.

Support the Community Harvest’s Mission to feed the hungry. Be part of “Saturday Helping

Hands” passing out fresh food to over 600 needy families (must be at least 14 years old). Every

volunteer must create an account and register online for the event. Once you get to website listed below, click create

account in top right corner and follow directions. www.suburbanbethlehem.communityharvest.volunteerhub.com. For

questions, or having difficulty registering, contact Pastor Alex Duff (260-403-6496; [email protected]) Blessed

in Service!!

April – Camp Lutherhaven: April 25, 9:00am – 4:00pm: Enjoy a day caring for God’s

Creation at Camp Lutherhaven helping to prepare the grounds for the summer camp sea-

son. If you are not familiar with Camp Lutherhaven, you need to go just to discover this

wonderful camp and retreat center in Albion. Sign up at the Welcome Center in Church

or contact Pastor Alex Duff (260-403-6496; [email protected])

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The Suburban Bethlehem Star

Finance

Secretary Jan. 2020 YTD

1/31/2020

Report Actual Budget Actual Budget

General fund 65,915.10 82,642.48 555,060.06 619,818.60

Building Fund 72,624.33 12,357.88 188,567.79 92,684.10

Other 43,611.39 44,284.00 638,581.43 332,130.00

Total 182,150.82 139,284.36 1,382,209.28 1,044,632.70

Treasurer Report Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran Church

Cash Balances

Checking Accounts Balance Designated Funds in

General Account Balance General $1,671.95 Adult Bible Class $504.89

Health Reimb Account $1,228.34 Youth $555.76

Summer Camp $1,000.11 Thrivent Advocate $1,090.44

Helping Hands $280.32 Schumacher missions

$583.63

Womens Ministry $12,669.63 Sound system $3,426.24

Total $16,850.35 Family Ministry $1,029.80

Tuition Assistance $65.00

Savings Accounts Balance

LCEF CD $2,120.39 Total $7,255.76

LCEF Special Bldg Fund $76,874.88

TD Ameritrade Stock $49.58 Unpaid bills for January

Cemetery $97.10 $0

Building Fund $288,840.22

Capital Improvement Fund $85,240.00

Reflecting the Light $56,720.00

LCEF Youth $364.17

Total $510,306.34

Mortgage balance $2,830,503.96

Bldg loan to General = $259,528

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The Suburban Bethlehem Star

SBLS NEWS Home of the Bethlehem Bulldogs! Sharing God’s blessing this 136th year!

Amy Greener

Fellowship

So that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts

should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every

part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with

it.

Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

1 Cor. 12: 25-27

PLEASE JOIN US!!

March 14, 2020

At the Allen County Fairgrounds

(Must be 21 years old to attend)

Come one. Come All!

It is my joy to tell you, that coming up, we have an opportunity for

fun and fellowship at our school auction. Save the date! Arrange

with a babysitter and come out to enjoy this FREE event. Invite

your friends and enjoy an evening that serves and blesses our

school. This year the funding will be going to new scoreboards in

the gym and an out building for storage for both the church and

school. What an opportunity! The evening will include music,

games of heads or tails, food, silent auction and a live auction. The

event will only be as fun as those who attend. YOU are the event.

Please come, have some fun and maybe even go home with a great

item!

Do you have a lake cottage, condo or time share that you are willing

to share for a short time? Are you willing to donate tickets to an

event? How about a night away at a hotel and a gift card for dinner?

We are so appreciative of all who have been so generous in the past.

If you are able to help again please contact Angie Zelt (260-710-

5558) or Carrie Johnson (260-760-7358)

What a blessing to celebrate as one body of Christ. As always we

want to give glory to God in all that we do. We also want to show

appreciation and thanks to those who work tirelessly to get every-

thing ready and organized.

Hope to see you there!!

Bible Quiz Game in

Faith Families

8th Grade vs. Teacher volleyball game.

8th graders were victorious!

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Suburban Bethlehem Lutheran YOUTH

Senior High Parent Student Volleyball Tourney:

Sunday, March 1, 6:30-8:30pm. Senior High Youth,

this is the opportunity that you have been waiting for,

and chance to take on your parents. Parents, this is your

opportunity to show your son or daughter that you still

got your stuff

March Madness: Sunday, March 22, 3:00-5:00pm.

The NCAA tournament has nothing on the excitement of

the SBLCYOUTH tourney. (We even have more ini-

tials.) There will be no cutting down of the nets or tele-

vision or news coverage but the competition will be just

as much fun. Meet in the gym for this event.

Easter Egg Hunt Servant Event: Saturday, April 4,

10:00am-12:00pm. The ‘egg’citement is building for the

4th annual Easter Egg Hunt and we need your help.

This is going to be an “egg”ceptional way to be a bless-

ing to many kids. Help is needed to set up for the event

and take on the most important task of hiding the eggs

for the hunt. Meet in the Commons

Sunday, April 26, Roller Skating: Sunday, April 26:

2:00-5:00pm. The Roller Dome will be Rockin’ and

Rollin’ when we take the floor. If you haven’t roller

skated before, it is time to learn. Cost is $8, which co-

vers roller skating and PIZZA! Drop off and pick up at

Roller Dome North. 444 W. Coliseum Blvd.

Senior High Gathering Days, Sundays 6:30-8:30pm,

Youth Room: March 1, March 15, April 5 and

April 19.

To register for events, other than Sr. High Gatherings,

sign up on event lists on Youth Board in church or in the

Commons at school; or call/text Pastor Alex (260-403-

6496), Kayli Greener at 260-438-6361or Kelsey Greener

at 260-438-3874. If not otherwise noted, events for Sen-

ior High and jCREW (5th-12th grade)

Little Disciples Summer Long Day Camp

Suburban Bethlehem offers a summer long day camp for

children ages 4-12. The camp provides a loving, Chris-

tian atmosphere with activities, Bible Stories, crafts, field

trips and many other opportunities. The camp is open

Monday through Friday weekly. Breakfast and lunch are

included. Extended care begins at 7:30 am and ends at

5:00 pm. More information can be found on the church

website at deeplyrootedtogrow.org or you can contact

Director Rachel Gillespie 260-705-6340. The start date

will be announced in the spring (after the winter weather)

when we get official word on when the Fort Wayne and

its area schools will be getting out for the summer.

FAMILY MINISTRY

Events and Resources:

In February, Family Ministry hosted Valentine Party for

the women and children at Charis House. The volun-

teers and residents enjoyed Valentine themed games,

stories, crafts, card making and of course treats! A

blessed time was had by all sharing God’s love in fel-

lowship and service.

Family Open Gym:

Plans are currently being made to host family open gym

and fellowship on select Sundays at 12:00pm following

church services. No dates on the calendar as of now,

but keep your eyes open for news. Hoping to start in

March.

Lenten Family Devotion Resources:

Lent started Ash Wednesday, February 26. The theme

for Lent is “Eyes on Jesus.” Lenten Devotions and Cal-

endars are available in the church office. These devo-

tions and calendars are a great resource for families to

prepare for Easter. Pick them up on table outside of

church doors.

Community Easter Egg Hunt and Luncheon:

Our annual Easter Egg Hunt will be held on Saturday,

April 4, from 10:30AM-12:00PM beginning in the

school gymnasium. This is open to all children in the

community. Families will participate in crafts and

presentations around the Easter Story, prepare their

Easter bag and then head out together to hunt the eggs.

After collecting eggs, the children and parents will

gather back in the cafeteria for a light lunch together.

Donation ideas for candy are available in the back of

church.

Bible Study:

Come join our Sunday Bible Study, “Truth or Dare.”

This Bible Study has combined with the Youth Bible

Study and has been well received! The discussion

based series answers difficult questions with well-

balanced Biblical Truth. This is sponsored through

Family Ministry and is open to all from 6th grade

through Seniors. Join us anytime up in the Youth

Room, Sundays, 9:30am.

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Bible Study:

Main Bible Study:

Ten Commandments Bible Study How well do you know the Ten Commandments? Do you remember they are

commandments and not “suggestions”? Beginning Sunday, February 23 the main Sunday Bible Study in the Fellow-

ship Hall will take a deeper look at the Ten Commandments. We will examine contemporary topics (such as how do

non-Christian religions square with the First Commandment?) and see how God is both challenging and empowering

faithful, loving living according to His Word! 9:30 am Sundays in the Fellowship Hall, Pastor Bill Mueller facili-

tates.

Family Ministry Bible Study: "Truth or Dare". This study is a 2 part series. This first "Truth or Dare" series dives right into

describing what Truth really is and how it affects our daily lives. What is good? What is evil? How should we conduct our lives

to be morally right with God? What is morally right? This series answers some difficult questions with well balanced, Biblical

Truths.

This second "Truth or Dare" series focuses on how peers, authority figures, and the media can influence

students. These lessons provide Biblical answers to some important questions. What is the truth behind the

media? How important is self-control and contentment? Do others see a God-fearing believer in me, or

someone influenced by the world?

This class is designed for: those struggling with worldly influences, parents and students in 7th grade and

up, as well as mentors and influencers, and all others interested in this study. (meets in the Youth Room at

9:30 am)

Jr. and Sr. High Youth (6th-12th grade): Joining the “Truth or Dare” Family Ministry Bible Study. See description above.

Growing Disciples Bible Study: 9:30am-10:15am. This class covers the basic teaching of the Christian Faith from a Lutheran

Perspective. This is called our “New Member Class” but it truly is a great class for members, those that are considering mem-

bership, or anyone that desires an opportunity to engage in discussion concerning Biblical teaching of basic church doctrine.

Please contact Pastor Bill or Pastor Alex if you are interested so materials can be provided. This will meet in the Upper Room.

Kid’s Korner Sunday School (2yr – 5th

grade): Enduring Faith is the name of our curriculum but it is also what we want to

develop through our program. As students move through the Enduring Faith curriculum. they will learn about their Savior, Je-

sus Christ, what their Savior means for them, how to defend their faith, and how to teach the faith to others. This year the Bibli-

cal stories and lessons will provide an overview of the Bible. (Meet in the gym)

Men’s Saturday Morning Bible Study—8:00 am–Meet in the Fellowship Hall. We are currently studying the book of Isai-

ah. We are a small group that enjoys fellowship and the study of God’s word for an hour every Saturday morning. Come and

join us! If you have any questions, please call Dan Schwarz 637-8318.

Saturday Mid–Morning Men’s Bible Study in the Fellowship Hall from 9:30 am-10:30 am Facilitated by Tim Mueller you

may contact him at 438-1149 or at [email protected] for information.

Mon. Evening Women’s Bible Study meets at 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall. Please contact Patty Willyard to purchase a

book at 247-0788.

Women’s Wednesday Morning Bible Study The topic is “What Happens When Women Walk In Faith” by Lysa Terkeurst.

We meet on Wednesday in the Upper Room, from 8:00 am-9:30 am. Unless . . . . If inclement weather and school is canceled,

the Bible Study is cancelled. We’ll do our lesson the following week. We are looking forward to seeing you to study God’s word

and how it relates to us.

Membership as of January 31, 2020 Baptized: 982

Communicant: 716

Average Attendance: 406

Official Acts

January 2020

The Suburban Bethlehem Star

Baptism:

Elliott Kay Schaefer

Funerals:

Wilma Schmidt

Marvin Zelt

Transfer Out:

Nancy Schneider

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Claire wakes up to the sound of

her alarm and groggily pulls her-

self out of bed. She feels awful

this morning just as she has as far

back as she’s able to recall. She’s been to the doctor;

she’s been to multiple doctors. Not one has been able to

diagnose exactly what is causing her symptoms. They

try to help, with good intentions, offering medications to

treat the symptoms. Sometimes the medications help a

bit, other times the side effects prove to be intolerable.

Claire is fed up living this way. She’s tired of feeling

like she is burdening her family and friends discussing

her physical ailments. They truly care about what is go-

ing on with her and want her to feel better. They have

tried to offer several “solutions” to help her. Claire

knows they mean well; but sometimes, she thinks, it

would just be nice to have someone just listen and not

try to “fix” her.

Claire could be any number of us. Many are living with

undiagnosed illness. Unfortunately, even when there is a

diagnosis, the most effective and appropriate treatment

for the individual can be challenging to find. This takes

a toll physically of course, but it can also take quite a

toll mentally and emotionally as well.

Thankfully, Claire recognized her level of frustration,

the physical and emotional toll her circumstances were

taking on her. So, she talked with the pastoral staff at

her church. They recognized right away how much of a

blessing meeting with a Stephen Minister could be for

her. No, a Stephen Minister could not solve her health

concerns. A Stephen Minister could be, however, a per-

son she could talk about her feelings and concerns with

in confidence. Her Stephen Minister would be someone

to walk alongside her, praying for and with her for as

long as she needed.

Today Claire and her Stephen Minister are meeting, as

they have been each week for the past month. She has

come to really look forward to this hour each week. Her

physical ailments continue, but she is feeling relief from

the emotional toll all of this has been taking on her just

having the freedom to speak so openly and freely with

her Stephen Minister.

To be connected with one of our Stephen Ministers here

at Suburban Bethlehem, contact either:

Pastor Bill Mueller [email protected] or

(260) 484-7873

Kay Howard [email protected] or (260) 484-

7873.

6 at 6 Women’s Dining Out Opportunity Once a

month our ladies (from young mothers to retired) get a

chance to get acquainted with other ladies from our

church. You are invited to attend our 6@6 dining oppor-

tunity at Raimondo’s Pizza, 2608 W. State Blvd on

March 6th at 6:00 pm. They serve great pizza, a special

homemade salad and have other entrees also. Ask for

the Suburban Bethlehem group when you arrive.

Outreach Ministry How did Jesus approach people

who had questions about trusting Him?

You probably remember the scene, all the disciples hud-

dled together (minus one) after the Resurrection behind

locked doors and there He is, putting Himself under His

followers scrutiny to see that he really did return from

the dead. Except, the twin wasn’t there to see it. The

twin would not trust what any of them said.

“Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put

my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his

side, I will not believe.” (John 20:24-25)

So, Jesus decides to let Didymus embrace this unsettled

feeling for about 8 days when he gives Thomas a chance

to reconsider his opinion.

With the doors shut, Jesus came and stood among them

and said, “Peace be with you. Then he said to Thomas,

Put your finger here in my hands. Reach out your hand

and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” (vv. 26-

27)

Jesus provided the help that Thomas needed to work

through his deeply held concerns. This is typical of the

way Jesus fosters relationships with his followers.

“Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed

are those who have not seen and yet have come to be-

lieve.” (v. 29)

Keep in mind that Didymus did not have to languish

without faith in Jesus resurrection. He was given the

confidence in the evidence (faith) that Jesus provided.

Jesus responded in the way that has continued to

strengthen the faith of his followers since that day on

Calvary; the way of growing in the grace and knowledge

of our Lord, Savior and Teacher. To learn how you can

help others to find answers to their questions about liv-

ing with a Loving King, please contact me at: timo-

[email protected]

Tim Mueller

Outreach Ministry

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The Suburban Bethlehem Star

Wednesday Mid-week Lent

Worship Services

(March 4, 11, 18, 25, and April 1, 2020.)

1:00 pm Sack Lunch and Bible Study

1:45 pm Lenten Worship / SBLS Chapel Service

5:00 pm Lenten Meal in the Fellowship Hall

6:30 pm Lenten Worship Service

Maundy Thursday, April 9, 2020

1:45 pm Worship / SBLS Chapel Service

6:30 pm Worship Service

Good Friday, April 10, 2020

12:00 Noon Worship Service

6:30 pm Worship Service

Easter Vigil Service Saturday, April 11, 2020

12:00 Noon – 5:00 pm Prayer Vigil

5:00 pm Worship Service

Easter Sunday, April 12, 2020

6:30 am Sunrise Service

8:00 am Worship Service

10:30 am Worship Service

Menu for Lenten Meals The meals will be served in the

Fellowship Hall starting at 5:00 pm.

Wednesday, March 4, 2020 - served by the Youth Ministry

Board for the youth mission trip will be; Sloppy Joe's, Na-

chos, Hotdogs, Chips, Cold Vegetables, Dessert, Lemonade,

Water, and Coffee.

Wednesday, March 11, 2020 - School Board -

Lasanga, bread sticks, salad, desserts and soft drinks

Wednesday, March 18, 2020 - Outreach Ministry - Sloppy

Joes, hot dogs, cold veggies, hot veggies, potato chips, dessert

and soft drinks

Wednesday, March 25, 2020 - Elders - Brats, sauerkraut,

German Potatoes, dessert, and soft drinks

Wednesday, April 1, 2020 - Trustees - Pulled Pork, sauer-

kraut, cheese potatoes, dessert, and soft drinks.

Thanks to one and all for the donation and work that

went into the Bake Sale Feb 8th. Without all the giving

and help we would not have had a successful

fund raiser Our next meeting is March 21st at 9:30

AM in the fellowship Hall. All women are welcome to

join us.

Sharon Mueller, Chair

Maxine Hoffman, Vice-Chair

Women’s Ministry Meeting March 21st

All Women are invited to the Women’s Ministry meet-

ing on Saturday, March 21, 2020. The meeting will

begin at 9:30 am in the Church Fellowship Hall. The

women will be discussing several church projects that

they are working on, along with planning future events.

Everyone’s input is important. This is also a time for

good fellowship together.

“CALLING ALL WOMEN” - Come to the Rally!

The Fort Wayne LWML 3 Zone Rally, that is.

“Sing to the Lord, Bless His Name” (Ps. 96:2) is the

theme of the LWML Three-Zone Spring Rally on Satur-

day, April 18, 2020. St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in

Huntington, IN is hosting the Event at the school build-

ing, 605 Polk Street. Registration ($6.00 and includes a

light breakfast) is at 8:30am, with the meeting and pro-

gram following from 9:00am - 11:30am. Natalie Reyn-

olds, music and art teacher at Lutheran South Unity

School in Fort Wayne, will be the speaker. The LSUS

Music Program was the recipient of an LWML Grant last

year. A monetary Ingathering will be collected at the

Rally for the maintenance and upkeep of the LSUS In-

strumental and Music Program. Nursery service will be

provided. All women are invited for a morning of inspi-

ration, fellowship and food!

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11

Celebrating the new life all people have in Jesus

with a weekly 30 minute broadcast service.

March 1, 2020 – First Sunday in Lent

“Tempting Lies” - Rev. Paul Shoemaker

March 8, 2020 – Second Sunday in Lent

“Good News for You!” - Rev. William Mueller

March 15, 2020 – Third Sunday in Lent

“Under Construction” - Rev. Dr. Thomas Ahlersmeyer

March 22, 2020 – Fourth Sunday in Lent

“Displaying God’s Works” - Rev. Dr. Walter Maier III

March 29, 2020 – Fifth Sunday in Lent

“Now What?” - Rev. Thomas Eggold Worship Anew Viewing Schedule

Sundays

7:00 a.m. NBC 21.2, FiOS4, Comcast 13, Mediacom 8

8:00 a.m. MyTV 21.3, FiOS 9, Comcast 252

11:30 am DIRECTV 377 & WINM 12/38

4:00 p.m. Comcast 55 & FiOS 25

Mondays 10:00 a.m. Comcast 55 & FiOS 25

Look for Worship Anew on

American Forces Network (AFN) television.

For broadcasting time, check local listings for Sunday

on AFN Prime Atlantic/Pacific

Lutheran Ministries Media, Inc.

5 Martin Luther Drive

Ft. Wayne, IN 46825

(260) 471-5683 or toll-free (888)286-8002

Learn more and view programs at

WorshipAnew.org

Mission Statement

Concordia Lutheran High School pursues

Christ-centered educational excellence that

equips individuals for lifelong learning and

service as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Concordia Lutheran High School—1601 St. Joe River Drive,

Fort Wayne, IN 46805 - (483-1102) - www.clhscadets.com

Mission Statement

Sharing Christ’s love

through ministry and media.

The Suburban Bethlehem Star

Concordia Lutheran High School Middle school and

high school students: Comdey Festival the event will

take place in the auditorium on March 13. Learn more

at www.concordiacomedyfestival.com.

Lutheran Hour Ministries 38 Annual Prayer Break-

fast

WHEN: Saturday, March 21, 2020, Registration at 8:00

and at Breakfast 8:30 am

WHERE: St. Michael Lutheran Church, 2131 Getz

Road, Fort Wayne, 46804

Cost of the full breakfast (catered by Grants) is $10.00

per person. The keynote speaker is Rev. Dr. Michael

Zeigler, speaker of the Lutheran Hour. You may pur-

chase tickets prior to the event from Ken Taylor or Lar-

ry Zelt or at the door. Music will be provided by The

Lutheran Men of Song.

Racine Lutheran High School will visit Fort Wayne &

SBL on March 12. We need families to house high

school students that Thursday evening. Contact Pastor

Bill Mueller at [email protected] if you can

help! They will lead a special concert that Thursday

evening at 7:00 pm. This is a sister high school to our

Concordia Lutheran High School and a great way to

support Lutheran education!

Register for Summer Camps and Classes Concordia

Lutheran High School is hosting summer camps for all

ages this summer. Camps are offered for art, band, base-

ball, basketball, cheer, color guard, computers, drama,

football, golf, lacrosse, rowing, sign language, soccer,

softball, tennis and volleyball. Concordia is also offering

summer classes for all area students in grades 8-12

(2019-20 school year). Camps and classes are offered in

June and July. Online registration is now open. For more

information and to register, visit www.clhscadets.com/

summer.

Save the Date for the Comedy Festival At 7 p.m.

March 13 in the CLHS auditorium, we will showcase the

great comedic films from our high school and middle

school entries. The winners will receive a GoPro! Come

for this great night of humor and fun with the students.

The event is free, and open to the public. We are also

still accepting entries. Read more by visiting

www.ConcordiaComedyFestival.com.

Register now for Cagers The Boys Basketball program

is once again putting on its Cagers program. The league

is scheduled from April 7 to May 5 on Tuesdays with

practices beginning on March 22. The cost is $140, and

is open to boys in 5th-8th grade. See more details and

register through CampBrain (the Summer Camp system)

at https://clhs.campbrainregistration.com. For questions,

please contact Coach Phil Brackmann at pbrack-

[email protected] or (260) 705-8508.

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The Suburban Bethlehem Star

APRIL

Palm Sunday

Easter Sunday

5

12

May

Elders Exam

SBLS Spring Musical & VIP day

Confirmation

8th Grade Graduation

SBLS Last Day of School

3

8

17

22

22

JUNE Little Disciples Day Camp

VBS

TBA

7-11

1 Barb Linnemeier

2 Patrick Kohn

2 Mary Kruse

3 Nanthaniel Bowen

3 Jay Koontz

3 Michaela Reinhard

4 Kayli Greener

4 Cameial Mays

6 Bart Ruch

7 Jeff Comstock

7 Aurora Gillespie

7 Ellen Gottschalk

7 Paisley Nichols

8 John Clark

8 Abernathy Schaefer

8 Todd Stahlhut

9 Sarah Bowen

11 Gary Hobbs

11 Jeff Moore

11 Emersyn Yoder

12 Rachel Gottschalk

13 Matthew Schneider

13 Andrew Willyard

14 Rachel Comstock

16 Zachary Street

16 Brock Williams

17 Thomas Kidd

18 Arloa Alvey

18 Johnathon Bates

18 Julianne Ounsombath

18 Matthew Schaefer

18 Jennifer Wiehe

19 Saelah Arnold

19 Lexie Frederick

19 Pearl Knipstein

20 Nancy DeFrain

20 Carter Parker

20 Patricia Willyard

21 Kay Howard

21 Shawn Quinn

22 Michael Fairfield

23 Scott Kincaid

23 Devan Knepple

23 Austin Wilcox

24 Donald Graft Jr

24 Stacie Martin

24 Jacob Ousley

24 Blake Perl

25 Chase Clifford

25 Pamela Moore

25 Nathaniel Norris

25 Emma Pattee

27 Katie Brown

27 Carson Clifford

27 Annika Comstock

27 Andrew Pick

27 Douglas Zelt

29 Leslie Gallmeier

29 Leonard Knipstein

30 Tim Moses

30 Brad Schnelker

31 Samantha Austin

31 Shawn Dreyer

31 Cameron Johnson

31 Christa Linnemeier

31 Richard Schneider

“God Bless and Keep You the Whole Year Through”

If your birthday is not listed or is incorrectly listed, please call

the church office at 260-484-7873 Thank You!

You’re Invited!

SBLS Auction Saturday, March 14th, 2020

Join Us! At the Allen County Fairgrounds

Live Entertainment Provided by Redeemed

Doors Open/Silent Auction at 6:00 pm

Live Auction at 7:00 pm

No Admission Charge.

MUST BE 21 TO ATTEND

Nacho Bar and Drinks for Purchase

Complimentary Dessert Bar and Popcorn

You can find us on Facebook at

www.facebook.com/BulldogAuction.

Items to be auctioned off will be posted on Facebook

between now and the auction.

Father Daughter Dance Thank You

The Father Daughter Dance was a great hit again this

year! We had 106 people attend which is a record attend-

ance. Many people work hard every year to make the

dance a success. We thank all those who helped in any

capacity this year! A special thanks goes to Bethany

Carter and Candice Stahl for their help in organizing it.

We also thank Chad Hough our DJ, Joel Nichols for spe-

cial lighting designs, Mary Ann Noble and Heather

Brown for being our photographers and Sherry Harmey-

er for overseeing the snacks.

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14

Mission Statement

Suburban Bethlehem

Lutheran Church and

School disciples each

generation to grow

deeply, serve humbly

and go boldly in Christ

to advance God’s

Kingdom.

6318 W. CALIFORNIA RD.

FORT WAYNE, IN 46818-9737

NON PROFIT ORG.

US POSTAGE PAID

FORT WAYNE, IN

PERMIT NO. 1917

The Suburban Bethlehem Star

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

“The JOY of the LORD is my STRENGTH!” Nehemiah 8:10

Worship Schedule

5:00 pm Saturday Worship Informal Service

Sunday

8:00 am Traditional Worship Service

9:15 am Fellowship in Fellowship Hall

9:30 am Education Hour For All Ages

10:30 am Contemporary Worship Service

V. 20 no. 2

Church Office: ~ 484.7873

web page: www.deeplyrootedtogrow.org

e-mail: [email protected]

School office: ~ 483.9371

web page: www.suburbanbethlehem.org email: [email protected]

Amy Greener, Interim Principal Kay Howard, Parish Assistant

Mary Ann Noble, Office Admin. Matt Johnston, Music Minister

Emmett Bartens, Seminary Student

Missionary Pastor Steve & Cyndi Schumacher–deployed at Ghana, W. Africa

Alex Duff, Pastor of Youth & Family Ministry Bill Mueller, Senior Pastor