July

Bethel’s Mission Statement

“Reflect my love! And repeat my action”

Bethel Lutheran Church is a house of God whose purpose is to demonstrate God’s love by us growing in our faith and helping others openly experience the good news of Jesus Christ without limit.

Dear Bethel Members,

With Bethel’s Mission statement, above, in mind, the Council thanks you for your support of the budget reductions presented at our special congregational meeting on June 9, 2013. If you would like to review the reductions that were approved, you may visit the church website to view the entire presentation. These reductions will help with our budget deficit but the reality is that the work still needs to be done. WE NEED YOUR COMMITMENT for others to openly experience the good news of Jesus Christ. Please consider expanding your stewardship and volunteer to participate on one of the church committees and/or activities. We especially need new members for the Christian Ed. Committee, Property Committee and Outreach Committee. Additionally, Vacation Bible School, a wonderful opportunity for our children, is in desperate need of church members to volunteer; as well as Sunday School teachers beginning in September. If you can assist us, please call Jennifer or Lawana. It is essential that more of us step forward to support our missions by actively participating in Bethel’s ministries. If each of us as members of Bethel’s family volunteer for one more initiative, our burden is lighter. Please know that your stewardship and support is greatly appreciated. You are doing God’s work and demonstrating His love for others.

Chris Prinzi reported from the Together In Ministry (TIM) Committee on the progress toward their goal of developing recommendations for the Lutheran Community of Jamestown. You will recall that each of the four Lutheran Churches of Jamestown selected two representatives in addition to the two pastors to work this summer. Chris Prinzi and Paul Gutzmer are representing Bethel. TIM is meeting bi-weekly to generate these recommendations. This is a monumental task and we send our prayers and our support to this committee.

As we, reluctantly, anticipate the departure of Pastor Adam, the Council is in the process of searching for an interim solution for worship as we discuss our options and look to the future. The Council plans to have a plan by our next meeting on July 15, 2013. We are scheduling a congregational celebration for Pastor Adam and Pastor Jordan in July to thank them for their ministries to the Lutheran Community, to wish them well in this new chapter in their lives and to celebrate Pastor Adam’s fifth anniversary of his ordination. Pastors Adam and Jordan look forward to being together with you at this farewell. Visit Bethel’s website or Facebook page for details as they become available.

The Council, again, appreciates your prayers and support. Have a wonderful summer and we look forward to worshiping with you during this beautiful season in Jamestown. May God bless you all.

Respectfully yours,

Gregg Davis- President