Bethany Lutheran Church
The Beacon
Cherry Hills Village, Colorado - 303-758-2820 - Fax 303-758-1980 - www.bethany-denver.org - Volume 24, Issue 2, February 2010
Lenten Theme 2010 – Bread for the Journey! Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35 These are words to chew on and digest and hunger for, all the days of our lives. But during Lent this year, we hope you will reflect on how Jesus is our Bread for the Journey. Check out all the amazing ways you can experience Jesus as bread beginning Feb 17! ASH WEDNESDAY WORSHIP Wednesday, Feb. 17, Noon, 7:00 p.m. Imposition of Ashes. These
reflective worship services marking the beginning of Lent feature Holy Communion and the imposition of ashes. MID-DAY SERVICES Wednesdays In Lent – Noon, The beginning of Lent marks the beginning of daily noon worship opportunities. Join fellow worshippers for these reflective services. Soup and bread to follow. EVENING PRAYER SERVICES Wednesdays in Lent – 6:30 p.m. Each Wednesday in Lent, join us for Taize worship. Turn to page 3 to the Faith Formation Corner for a description of the many ways to get involved this Lenten season.
The Lover’s Delight Lasagna Dinner Sunday, February 21 in Fellowship Hall Doors open at 5:00, dinner at 5:45. The Lover’s Delight Lasagna Dinner is the first fundraiser for mission trips to Washington and Sky Ranch this year. This night will include a delicious dinner served by the youth, as well as a talent show. Tickets will be $10 for adults and $5 for children over the age of 2. Tickets will be sold in the narthex January 31, February 7, 14, and 21. It will take place in the Fellowship Hall and the doors will open at 5:00 p.m. and serving will begin around 5:45. Bring your family, enjoy the entertainment, and support the youth!
Souper Bowl of Bethany Lutheran and Holy Caring Hammers Sponsor Five Habitat Sunday, February 7 at the for Humanity Homes in Denver end of the 8:00, 9:00 and 10:30 service. in 2010
The Souper Bowl of Caring is a national event to fight hunger and poverty. 100% of all money raised goes directly to ELCA World Hunger Appeal and Metro Care Ring, a food bank in Denver which has experienced a 30% increase in requests for food and a 20% drop in donations. This is a great opportunity to get your kids, including the little ones, involved. We need youth to hold soup pots at the sanctuary exits at the end of each of the three services. The members of the congregation can "vote" for their team by dropping money into the pots as they leave the sanctuary. Contact Jessica March at phinsphan71@comcast.net.
Holy Hammers and Bethany Lutheran are partnering with Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver and Thrivent Financial to sponsor and build five homes at 4350 E. Bails Place in Denver, 80222. These five homes will be part of a historic 24-unit Habitat for Humanity community to be built in the Virginia Village neighborhood (near I-25 and Colorado Boulevard). Holy Hammers congregations, including Bethany Lutheran, will provide 10% of the cost of the five homes. Thrivent Financial and Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver will provide the remaining 90% of the cost of the homes. Construction began on January 8th and it will complete in May, 2010. The homes will be dedicated in September/October, 2010. The five sponsor families who are partnering with Holy Hammers to build these five homes are the Akfakahi - El Mansouri family (from the Sudan originally), the Bendjebbar Ghouilem Family (from Algeria originally), the Hussein - Shash family (from Ethiopia originally), the Woldermariam - Amaha family (from Ethiopia originally), and the Fakhraoui – Khadija family. Fourteen chil-
Souper Sunday, Transforming Hearts, Lasagna, Journey to the Cross & Lutheran Malaria Initiative “Holy God, mighty and immortal, you are beyond our knowing, yet we see your glory in the face of Jesus Christ. Transform us into the likeness of your Son, who renewed our humanity so that we may share in his divinity, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen” (ELW Prayer for Transfiguration). Imagine if you will this column to be a “mapquest” of sorts for our Sundays during February. There are four Sundays (7, 14, 21, 28) during the month. Along the way we will have a “souper” time with Souper Bowl Sunday. We will climb the mountain of Transfiguration on Valentine’s Day while reflecting about God’s love and passion for us. On the First Sunday in Lent we have the opportunity to support the youth at their Lasagna dinner. On the last Sunday of the month we will feature “Journey to the Cross” (formerly known as the Easter Walk). This is an interactive educational and spiritual event for people of all ages. In worship, Pastor Andrea DeGroot-Nesdahl, Coordinator for the Lutheran Malaria Initiative, will be our guest preacher. The youth of this synod have taken the lead nationwide in responding to the call to raise funds and awareness regarding malaria efforts by the Lutheran Church. The common thread in all of these activities is a line from the prayer, “Transform us into the likeness of your Son, who renewed our humanity so that we may share in His divinity.” Blessings to you, to us, to our community as we participate in this holy transformation. In Christ, Pastor Ron
continued on page 4......
4500 E. Hampden Avenue Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113
Bethany Lutheran Church
Periodical
2
February 2010
The Beacon
Journey to the Cross (formerly known as Easter Walk) February 28, 2010, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Journey to the Cross is a dramatic telling of the Passion Week story, in which participants move through six stations to hear parts of the story. Through scenery, props, lighting, music, and costumes, Journey to the Cross creates a sense of being in a different time and place that allows the Passion story to come alive. Each storyteller presents a brief, firsthand account of a person who encountered Jesus, demonstrating what that person may have been thinking and feeling as a witness of his life, death, and resurrection. A new group begins the story walk approximately every 5 – 10 minutes. Adults are welcome to join any group of children or youth. Entry into Jerusalem: Last Supper: Garden of Gethsemane: Trial before Pilate: Crucifixion: Empty Tomb:
Room 300 Room 404 Room 401 Room 403 Room 400 Room 405
First Communion families and Sunday School classes (Godly Play, Kids Light, Middle School) will be scheduled for Journey to the Cross and additional craft activities.
Taize Worship on Wednesday Evenings in Lent This year during the five weeks of Lent, we will be worshiping in the prayer style of Taize. As we discovered last year, it is an excellent worship to assist us in slowing down our busy lives to “wait upon the Lord”. Taize is actually the name of a small village in eastern France. It is an international, ecumenical community where young adults from all over the world have gathered to be in intentional Christian community since the early 1940’s. Together they practice common prayer three times a day which include meditative and sung prayer, silence and Scripture readings. Within our Lenten theme of “Bread for the Journey” we will hear texts about Jesus as “the bread of life.” We will partake of His holy meal - the bread of His body and our Body.
We will lift our voices in quiet, prayerful praise and meet our Lord in silence. Come join us! Pastor Ruth Ann
Labyrinth Wednesdays in Lent offers you a chance to walk a labyrinth. The Christian labyrinth became popular during the Middle Ages as a means to go on a ‘pilgrimage.’ Contemplative, intentional, steady steps take one to the center so to pause before the Lord. This is holy ground!
Monthly Meetings For Kids’ Light Parents Sunday, February 7, 9:00 AM, Room 314 Facilitator: Michelle Okes What is Light Bearers all about? • Enjoy fellowship with other parents • Dig into the same Bible stories that your kids will be learning ~ This month’s topic: Moses and the Burning Bush • Learn to lead faith talks at home with your child • Get ideas for family activities to apply the learning to life • Pray for families in our faith community • Learn to create and mark faith milestones.
Puppets tell the story of Paul on the road to Damascus.
Children make original drawings of the light that startled Paul on the Damascus Road.
“Do this for the remembrance of me...”
FIRST COMMUNION A Faith Milestone
for students in 3rd grade and older two part instruction
Business Leaders Forum Please join us on Friday, Feb 5 at 7:30 a.m. in the Great Hall for our next Business Leaders Forum. It's a great way to make connections with others at Bethany. Please RSVP to joel@bethany-denver.org or 303-639-4348.
Sunday, February 28, 2010 2:00 – 5:30 p.m. & Sunday, March 7, 2010 9:00 – 11:00 Participation in the Lord’s Supper is an important Faith Milestone. Instruction in the sacrament ensures that young people have a basic understanding and appreciation of the gifts God gives through Holy Communion. First Communion instruction is a family event. Parents are expected to attend the instruction with their child for an opportunity to share this significant faith experience. Registration deadline is February 21. Pick up your registration brochure at the hospitality desk. For more information, contact Joni Grundman 303-300-3304 or joni@bethanydenver.org
Heart Health Are You Making Your Heart Ready for Easter?
Bethany’s Lenten Retreat at St. Malo Retreat Center (near Estes Park) will start with supper on Thursday, February 25th, and conclude with lunch on Saturday, February 27th. Even though the Retreat takes place during Lent, it is NOT a time of somber faces, sad hearts, and anxious thoughts; rather it is a time of preparation, pondering, and peace. Our theme this year, THE GOOD BOOK – Hard Texts and Changing Times, will give us the opportunity to encounter our Lord in His Word and make our hearts ready for remembering His dying and celebrating His rising. Join us; you can register at the Hospitality Desk on Sunday mornings. Your heart will be glad you did.
February 2010
Mark your calendars for MOST! Something new will be happening in February -- MOST …Midweek Opportunities to Study Together. Beginning Wednesday February 24, 2010 and continuing through March 31, 2010 there will be a 5 week Bible Study based upon this year’s Lenten theme: The Good BookHard Texts and Changing Times. These sessions will be 60-75 minutes long and will begin 10 minutes after worship ends. Come for some or all of them. On Wednesday evenings after Lent, (April 14 - May 19) there will be a spring Bible study on the book of Romans, and in the fall there will be a lively study of the book, Everything Must Change by Brian McLaren. This will be followed by a Bible study on the book of Luke. Stay tuned for more details as we get closer to the starting dates.
Save the Date! Stacie Schubert will be leading Facing the Mourning Sundays, March 7, 14, 21 & 28 at 10:30 a.m. in the Pastor's conference room.
Family Ministry Family Faith Night, Saturday, February 6 from 4-7 p.m. Family Faith Night is a spirit filled evening for the whole family. Fellowship, Worship and fun are the key components. It is an evening for families of all ages, sizes and shapes. Families will help prepare for the Souper Bowl of Caring event on February 7. We will bake muffins and rolls, and help make soup. Dinner is provided for the whole family and our evening concludes with a worship service designed with youth and kids in mind. Child care is provided for our youngest members. Registration is required for this event. The cost is $15 per family. Registration forms are at the hospitality desk or by emailing Joni Grundman at joni@bethany-denver.org or call 303-300-3304. Souper Bowl of Caring, Sunday, February 7 at the end of 8:00, 9:00 and 10:30 service. The Souper Bowl of Caring is a national event to fight hunger and poverty. 100% of all money raised goes directly to ELCA World Hunger Appeal and Metro Care Ring, a food bank in Denver which has experienced a 30% increase in requests for food and a 20% drop in donations. This is a great opportunity to get your kids, including the little ones, involved. We need youth to hold soup pots at the sanctuary exits at the end of each of the 3 services. The members of the congregation can "vote" for their team by dropping money into the pots as they leave the sanctuary. Contact Jessica March at phinsphan71@comcast.net and let her which service works for you and how many kids will be participating. The Lover’s Delight Lasagna Dinner Sunday, February 21 in Fellowship Hall. Doors open at 5:00, dinner at 5:45. The Lover’s Delight Lasagna Dinner is the first fundraiser for mission trips to Washington and Sky Ranch this year. This night will include a delicious dinner served by the youth, as well as a talent show. Tickets will be $10 for adults and $5 for children over the age of 2. Tickets will be sold in the narthex January 31, February 7, 14, and 21. Bring your family, enjoy the entertainment, and support the youth! Expectant Parents Prayer Group We want to begin praying now for the safe arrival of your child. •If you are expecting a child to your family, let the office know so we can begin praying for you and your child. •We need people to join us in praying for our expectant parents. If this is a ministry you feel called to, please email joni@bethany-denver.org or call Joni at 303-300-3304. Announcement of Births and Adoptions Once your baby has arrived, please call the church office. We want to celebrate their arrival by placing a red rose on the altar and including them in the prayers. A Gift for you and your New Child Bethany also has a gift for your and your newborn. A 3-year subscription to Splash! Splash! is a faith formation resource for families with young children from Augsburg Fortress. It includes Splash! Packs, Splash! Music, and Wonderfully Made! A Keepsake Book of Faith Moments.
Faith Formation Corner - Lenten Theme 2010 Bread for the Journey! Lenten Theme 2010 – Bread for the Journey! Jesus said, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” John 6:35 These are words to chew on and digest and hunger for, all the days of our lives. But during Lent this year, we hope you will reflect on how Jesus is our Bread for the Journey. Check out all the amazing ways you can experience Jesus as bread beginning Feb 17, with Ash Wednesday! Lenten Retreat, February 2527: Join us at St. Malo’s Retreat Center as we study several texts: Christ in Culture, Richard Niebuhr, The Good Book, Peter Gomes and Have a Little Faith, Mitch Albom. These will help us understand the lenses through which we read scripture and
3
The Beacon
encounter the world.
won’t be disappointed.
Wednesday Midweek Worship: At noon we’ll have worship with a brief sermon. Wednesday nights find us in the sanctuary, 6:30 – 7:15 pm, for Taize. This time will be reflective and quiet with songs to center our minds on Jesus, ‘the bread of life.’
What kind of bread are you? Father Dominic, in Bake and be Blessed, says that each one of us are a ‘bread type.’ Look for recipe cards and a devotional booklet to help you determine if you are rye or banana nut! Then go, and be bread for the world!
Labyrinth: Wednesdays in Lent offers you a chance to walk a labyrinth. The Christian labyrinth became popular during the Middle Ages as a means to go on a ‘pilgrimage.’ Contemplative, intentional, steady steps take one to the center so to pause before the Lord. This is holy ground! h2o Devos: Each day stop to reflect on Bread for the Journey with Pastor Ron’s daily devotionals. Check them out at www.h2odevos.blogspot.com . With the songs of Peter Mayer and creativity of Pr Ron, you
Confirmation students and mentors: will mutually benefit from conversations during the weeks of Lent. Thanks to AAA adults for walking the walk and talking the talk with our youth. If your conversation finishes early, head to the kitchen for some pretzel baking with Pastor Ron! Stretch and Pray: Offered each Wednesday night after worship with Michelle Stone Kraus leading us in that vital connection of body and spirit! It’s easy and fun. Try it out!
Service Project for Senior High and Middle School World Vision Saturday, February 6 9:00am - 12:00pm The youth will be going to World Vision to sort corporate donations that are then repackaged and sent around the world. World Vision provides hope and assistance to approximately 100 million people in nearly 100 countries. In communities around the world, World Vision joins with local people to find lasting ways to improve the lives of poor children and families. We are limited to 50 youth. This does count as service hours for confirmation. If you are interested in attending, please contact Joni Grundman at 303-3003304 or joni@bethany-denver.org
4
The Beacon
Family Faith Night A Souper Bowl of Caring February 6, 4 -7 p.m. Family Faith Night is a spirit filled evening for the whole family. Fellowship, worship and fun are the key components. It is an evening for families of all ages, sizes and shapes. Families will help prepare for the Souper Bowl of Caring event on February 7. We will bake muffins and rolls, as well as help make soup. Dinner will be provided for the whole family, and our evening will conclude with a worship service designed with youth and kids in mind. Child care is provided for our youngest members. Registration is required for this event. Cost is $15 per family. Registration forms are available at the hospitality desk or by e-mailing Joni Grundman at joni@bethany-denver.org. For more information, call her at 303-300-3304.
Habitat for Humanity....continued from page 1 dren across these five families will have a new home. Habitat for Humanity’s mission is to provide decent, affordable housing to low-income families. Habitat homes are affordable because they’re sold with zero-interest mortgages, and monthly payments are based on 25% of the homeowner’s income. Although affordable housing is a key component in gaining financial stability, expenses like transportation, health care and utilities are other major factors in a family's budget. In Metro Denver, transportation is the second largest expense for families after housing. In fact, the average Denver family spends 59% of their income on transportation and housing costs, leaving little left over for basic necessities. In addition to high fuel costs, many lowincome workers are forced to travel long distances to work due to the lack of affordable housing options near employment centers. As Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver’s first Transit Oriented Development, the Bails Town-Home Community will allow 24 families the chance to grow and thrive with affordable housing and transportation options. This neighborhood is located within ½ mile of the Southeast corridor light rail and close access to regional bus lines. With demand for housing within a half mile of light rail stations projected to increase over 300% between now and 2030, this affordable housing project will provide sustainable solutions for Habitat families well into the future. Holy Hammers is an interfaith coalition of congregations with the mission of working together on projects for the community in partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver. We believe in Faith in Action and the Theology of the Hammer, bringing together a wide diversity of people to build houses and establish viable and dynamic communities. We find a common ground in using a hammer as an instrument to manifest God’s love. We meet monthly at one of our member congregations. Bethany Lutheran and the other Holy Hammers congregations will again provide on-site volunteers for the construction of this Habitat for Humanity home. Construction days again will occur on Fridays and Saturdays each week from about 8:45 AM until 4:30 PM. We will need to provide 20+ volunteers on each construction day. If you are interested in volunteering for this project in any way or if you have questions, please call Kevin Dempsey at (303) 699-1629 or contact him via e-mail at kmdmpsy@aol.com. You can also look for the Volunteer sign-up table in the Narthex between services each Sunday or go to the Bethany web-site www.bethany-denver.org and look for the Habitat for Humanity project for volunteer sign-up opportunities as well.
Lenten Mentors Needed for Confirmation Students: We are looking for AAA adults who are willing to be mentors to confirmation students during Lent. The commitment is to meet with a student, one on one, for a 5 week period on Wednesday evenings starting in Feburary and ending March 24. If you are interested in this faith forming experience, please contact Joni Grundman, joni@bethany-denver.org or 303-300-3304.
February 2010
2009 Finance and Spiritual Gifts Update Accomplishments: Received $410,000 toward our year-end goal of $560,000. Received total contributions to the General Fund of $1,934,000. Received $355,000 toward the Founders Campaign for Debt Reduction that will help us reduce our long-term debt from $2,700,000 at the beginning of 2009 to nearly $2,100,000 in January, 2010. Implemented the Founders Campaign Savings program which includes $120,000 from 2009. Received gifts from two generous bequests that total nearly $350,000. Reduced General Fund operating expenses by 10% from 2008 levels (or nearly $150,000 per year). Several hundred members, including children, have completed their Spiritual Gifts inventory and are offering their gifts through many different ministries here at Bethany. We rejoice in the gifts that God has provided to Bethany and each of us individually, acknowledging that it all belongs to God, now and forever. Challenges: The General Fund incurred a deficit of $76,000 in 2009 due to: Total expenses for 2009, including operating expenses, debt service, Founders Campaign savings and benevolence commitments, totaled $2,010,000. Decline in contributions to the General Fund compared to previous years. Action Steps: Leadership will begin budget development for 2010/11 starting this month. Stewardship Ministry Team will increase faith formation efforts to specifically address the intersection of money, giving and the ministry of all of us as the church. Take the Spiritual Gifts inventory to connect you with your individual gifts and passions for ministry at Bethany and beyond. Decide today how you can contribute financially to Bethany’s ministries. No matter the amount, every person’s participation is important. We lift our challenges to God and ask for wisdom as we steward the gifts and finances for the work of the Lord at Bethany.
Join Other Bethany Families For a Fun-Filled Faith Night! Bethany families went bowling on February 7.
February 2010
The Beacon
The Lutheran Malaria Initiative Bethany welcomes guest preacher Andrea DeGroot-Nesdahl, ELCA Coordinator for the Lutheran Malaria Initiative on Sunday, February 28 The Lutheran Malaria Initiative, currently in the planning phase, is an unprecedented collaborative effort among the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod and Lutheran World Relief to mobilize the nearly 8 million Lutherans in the United States to join the battle against malaria -- a preventable and treatable disease Dragonflies curb the mosquito that kills more than one million population and serve as a sym- people a year. bol for malaria-containment An expression of our faith and efforts of God's love for all, the Lutheran Malaria Initiative (LMI) will educate U.S. Lutherans about malaria, advocate for global health initiatives, and raise funds to help combat malaria. By combining proven field strategies, experience, expertise, and resources, LMI brings together a worldwide network of Lutheran congregations, partner churches, missionaries, and service providers in the fight against malaria. For generations, Lutherans have been a powerful force for change, and LMI continues that faithful tradition. The three LMI partners are excited about this campaign and look forward to a national launch in the coming months. The Lutheran Malaria Initiative is made possible through a partnership with the United Nations Foundation. For more information on the Lutheran Malaria Initiative visit www.elca.org
2010 Faith Advocacy Day
5
BECC Specials Are Very Special In addition to our regular curriculum and daily music program, “Specials” are available at BECC Monday through Friday. These are extra-curricular classes for any BECC student. Parents may sign up for a class of their choice and pay the instructors for their services. We see the activities as an on-site benefit for our busy families. Some families even bring their children to “Specials” on days they are not enrolled in our regular program. On Monday and Tuesday we offer “Jump Bunch” with Staci Lifshen. This class is a fun, structured program that introduces children to a wide range of sports, helps build coordination, selfesteem, and a lifelong love of sports and fitness. The cost for this very popular activity is $35.00 per month. On Wednesday we offer “Soccer Shots”. Tammi Haddad introduces the children to the excitement of soccer. Her mission is to provide children with creative, simple play activities which enable them to exercise and have fun with soccer. The soccer shots curriculum places a high emphasis on both character development and soccer skill development and has been proven successful with thousands of children throughout the United States. The cost is $40.00 for four weeks. On Thursday we offer “Spanish classes” with our own Pre-K (Lions) teacher, Zuly Halter. Zuly introduces conversational Spanish and develops vocabulary with games and songs. She is from Argentina and has been teaching Spanish to young children for many years. She charges $30 per month. On Friday we offer Youth Life Skills classes taught by Sensei Josh from U.S. Martial Arts. The program promotes and improves: self-discipline, self esteem, attention and focus, respect, safety awareness, physical fitness and lots of fun. The cost of the class is $40.00 a month. Our “Specials” are offered before lunch and timed so that the children do not miss music, outside time or academics. Many of our parents say they are grate- The Bethany Early Childhood Center is ful for the opportunity to looking for a Music teacher for our prehave their children partic- school program. She/he must be nurturipate in one or more ing, energetic and love music and young “Specials” at the center. children. It is a part-time morning position BECC “Specials” elimi(5 mornings for 2 and 1/2 hours). If internate the need for parents ested call Mary Lloyd at 303-758-0266. to spend weekends or We would love to welcome you to our evenings taking their chilBECC family. dren to other locations for classes and allow more time for meaningful, bonding time at home. Thanks again for your support in our Fundraising efforts. Our BECC Board members sell gift cards for King Soopers, Safeway, Sunflower Market and Tony’s Meats on the first and third Sundays of the month in the Bethany narthex. We also sell MetroEcoGuides which offer local coupons and suggestions for going “Green”.
6 Letter from Kirsten Nelson Roenfeldt
Dear Bethany, I am excited to share with you what Steve and I have experienced since we left you last June. Things have been really picking up as of late. During a few months of “sabbatical” this summer and fall, we enjoyed the opportunity to train for and then ride a Century: a 100-mile road bike ride. We spent a weekend in Moab, UT riding in the Skinny Tire Festival and had a blast. I was particularly proud of my personal fitness accomplishment! It was a difficult ride, 3000 feet of elevation gain in 7 miles right at the start! I have been blessed by my internship placement at Evergreen Lutheran with Pastor Vera Guebert-Steward. I started there on November 1st and have been excited to learn about the congregation and how they do things here. Each congregation has its own unique personality and characteristics, and it is so very valuable that I get to experience diverse places and how they live out their baptismal callings. I want to thank you again for your support of me as a student in your midst, learning what it means to be a leader and servant of a congregation. You have blessed me with invaluable experience. Thank you also for your financial commitment to my seminary trainin;, that support has made an enormous difference for us on this journey. Steve and I are also excited to tell you that we are about to embark on a whole new adventure: parenthood! Our baby is due July 28, 2010, and we look forward to sharing him or her with you at some point during the following year of full-time motherhood. Pray for us! For all of our current adventures: internship, pregnancy and Steve’s constant adventure of teaching 8th graders science. We love you and miss you. You are a blessing to us and to the world. Shalom, Kirsten and Steve Nelson Roenfeldt
ELCA Helping Haiti and Thrivent’s Million Dollar Challenge Almost two weeks have passed since the devastating earthquake in Haiti. The outpouring of gifts from members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) to ELCA Disaster Response has enabled a swift response on behalf of this church. Thank you for your generous financial support which now totals more than $1.6 million. Thousands of other gifts are still being counted. Our community-based partners are already providing: •Two water purification systems to bring clean water to 25,000 people. •Emergency food and medical supplies to thousands. •Blankets and tents to shelter 10,000 people who are homeless. Funding, distributed through three partners, will increase as giving continues. $300,000 has been sent to The Lutheran World Federation (LWF), a key responder and member of Action by Churches Together (ACT). The funds support LWF efforts to provide shelter to people left homeless by the quake. $150,000 has been sent to Lutheran World Relief (LWR), Baltimore, for material aid. $150,000 has been sent to Church World Service (CWS) for construction of temporary water systems and distribution of water purification materials.
February 2010
The Beacon
In addition, $25,000 has been sent to Lutheran Services of Florida for initial support to refugees and Haitian Americans entering or returning to the United States. You want to help those affected by the Haiti earthquake. Thrivent
Lutheran Family Services Thank You Dear Friends of LFS, Your recent donation to our Refugee/Asylee program is truly appreciated. This contribution will bring refugee families the food that they need as they begin their lives here in Denver. At Lutheran Family Services, we value your partnership in making a difference in our community and thank you for ‘walking with the vulnerable, through services that heal, strengthen and provide hope’. Thank you for giving our mission impact with your compassion, generosity and loyal support. Your gifts are changing lives for the better! What a blessing! Jane Pope Meehan Vice President of Resource Development
wants to join you. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will add $1 to every $2, up to a total Thrivent Financial contribution of $1 million, when our members donate to one of the following: •Lutheran World Relief. •ELCA Disaster Response. •LCMS World Relief/Human Care. •WELS Committee on Relief. Thrivent Financial will add a maximum of $250 per member donation, and donations will be accepted through March 31, 2010. For questions or to make a donation over the phone or via U.S. Mail, please call 800-236-3736 from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Central time, Monday – Friday. When prompted, please say "directory" and enter ext. 83003.
h2o Devos: Each day stop to reflect on Bread for the Journey with Pastor Ron’s daily devotionals. Check them out at www.h2odevos.blogspot.co m. With the songs of Peter Mayer and creativity of Pr Ron, you won’t be disappointed.
“Dear Beth Anne” Dear Beth Anne, My husband and I did not pledge this year because we are worried about losing our jobs, worried about the rising cost of living, just worried period. Surely God and the church understand why we cannot pledge at this time. We may not be able to give either. Worried in Wheat Ridge. Dear Worried, In addition to the prophets of old, there are more modern “prophets” whose message is also sound spiritual advice. Let’s look at one such prophet, Franklin Delano Roosevelt. In his first inaugural address to a country deep into the throws of the Great Depression he said the following: “…This is preeminently the time to speak the truth, the whole truth, frankly and boldly….So first of all, let me assert my belief that
THE ONLY THING WE HAVE TO FEAR IS FEAR ITSELF…In such a spirit on my part and on yours we face our common difficulties. They concern, thank God, only material things….Compared to the perils our forefathers conquered because they BELIEVED AND WERE NOT AFRAID, we have still much to be thankful for. Nature still offers her bounty and human efforts have multiplied it….Happiness lies not in mere possession of money…These dark days will be worth the cost if they teach us that our true destiny is not to be ministered unto but to minister to ourselves and our fellow man….There are many ways in which it can be helped, but it can never be helped merely by talking about it. We must act and act quickly….In this declaration of a nation we humbly ask the blessing of God.” There are countless scripture reference to our need to trust that God loves us and will care for us.
There are modern day prophets such as FDR, and there are expositions of scripture each Sunday that reveal a God who has not abandoned us and has commanded us to give and to give generously. I hope you will feel the love that can only come from God and boldly give generously and trust that God does indeed keep his promises. Beth Anne
February 2010
The Beacon
Scholarship Money for 2010 The Bethany Foundation would like to annouce the availability of scholarship money for the 2010 school year. All Bethany members who are attending an ELCA affiliated college are eligible. The amount is $1000 and is often matched by their college. The application forms can be downloaded from the church website: www.bethany-denver.org. The deadline for applications is May 1st for new students, and February 1 for renewing students. If questions please contatct David Cluasen, 303-730-9004 or dcluasen@idcomm.com.
The Luther College Orchestra is coming! Bethany is hosting the eighty-plus Luther College Orchestra on Tuesday evening March 23, 2010. Part of our hosting includes finding rooms for these college students during their visit. If you are interested in helping, please contact Festival Director, Forrest Guittar at 303-877-4200, or via e-mail at gumpman3@comcast.net to obtain details.
Seniors XYZ (Xtra Years of Zip) Join us each Tuesday for fellowship, games and fun. 2/2
Meatloaf
2/9
Shrimp scampi
2/16
Baked chicken
2/23
Pork roast
All meals include salad, rolls, dessert and coffee.
Young at Heart Young at Heart will meet on Friday, February 12, 2010 in the Fellowship Hall beginning at 11:30 a.m. This will be a potluck lunch. Watch the bulletin for program information. For more information, please call the church office at 303-758-2820.
Town Hall of Wednesday Festival of Faith and Ash Denver Lecture Worship, Series “Tom Imposition of the Arts Noel, Ph.D. – Ashes, Beginning 152 Years of of Lent, Feb. 17 Denver!” at Noon & 7:00 p.m. These worFeb. 8, 10:00 a m “Dr. Colorado” ship services embrace a reflective promises to put together a custom atmosphere and mark the beginning presentation tailor-made for Town of Lent with Holy Communion and Hall. He has done more than anythe Imposition of Ashes. one to make local history accessible Bethany Lenten Devotional: through his series of walking tours of Denver’s historic neighborhoods, Festival Devotional-“Messiah”Handel, Feb 17 available via churches, saloons, and cemeteries. Nothing compares to his knowledge website. This devotional utilizes Handel’s Messiah as its basis, preand delivery of his fact-filled and pared by Festival Director, Forrest entertaining first 152 years! Guittar. A donation is requested for Ars Nova Singers “Chanson d’ the Messiah devotional to help Amour: A Romantic Recital”, endow the Kathy Eggleston Music Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m. In an intiScholarship Fund. mate Valentine’s Day recital of solo The Lenten Labyrinth, and small ensemble music presentWednesdays In Lent, Bethany’s ed by Ars Nova’s professional Faith Formation Ministry singers. Department presents the Denver Young Artists Orchestra, Labyrinth. Following the path of Conservatory Orchestra & String the labyrinth is an ancient tradition, Ensemble, Sun. Feb. 14 at 6:00 a walking meditation which has p.m. DYOA’s exceptional musiserved as an important spiritual cians present a program practice since before the time of the showcasing Works by Saint-Saens, early Christian pilgrims. Additional Schubert, and Tchaikovsky. information at www.bethany-denver.org
7
Council Corner The Church Council held their annual Council retreat on Saturday January 16. This is a day long session that provides a time for the newly appointed Council to become acquainted with each other and discuss relevant topics to prepare for the year ahead. This year, the retreat was centered around the four keys (or principles) of Faith Formation: rituals and traditions, caring conversations, devotions and service. Throughout the day, the four keys would be emphasized in various ways providing opportunities for the Council members to have one-on-one conversations, discuss theological issues and respond to our call to serve others in need (e.g, the earthquake in Haiti). The agenda also included four primary areas for discussion: decision making, financials, the Pew Sitter report and making judgment calls. The following provides a summary of each of these areas. Decision Making Del Hock led us in this discussion which was facilitated by an article from the Harvard Business Review entitled "How Well-Run Boards Make Decisions”. One of the key points made in the dicussion was that often times boards need to make decisions even if there is imperfect or inadequate information available. The lack of information cannot be used as an excuse not to make a decision. Financials The Council had a caring conversation about the monthly financial report that the Council reviews every month. Don Abram, Treasurer, led the discussion supported by Joel Halvorson, Director of Finance & Administration. It was important for the Council members to have this time to ask questions about the report and learn more about the financial structure at Bethany. Pew Sitter report The Council reviewed a report that was completed by a consultant for the Fellowship Team. The consultant came to Bethany on a Sunday morning in November to observe and critique the experience as a visitor to Bethany. There were many intersting comments in the report, both strategic and tactical, that Council should be aware of and either address directly or provide input and direction to the Fellowship Team. Discussion regarding the report will continue throughout the year. Judgment Calls Derek Birznieks led this discussion which was based on a Harvard Busines Review article entitled "Making Judgment Calls." The Council had a good discussion on this topic, especially as it related to the experience of the 2009 Council during the budget development process in the spring of 2009. Please visit the Council section of the website (www.bethanydenver.org) for more information about the Church Council meetings and reports.
Affirmation of Baptism is a Day of Celebration and Reflection at Bethany
8
The Beacon
Health and Wellness “Just as the body cannot exist without blood, so the soul needs the matchless and pure strength of faith.” - Mahatma Gandhi Gift of Life February has two noteworthy holidays, Washington’s (now President’s) Day and Valentine’s Day. Assuming we are all pretty much at our limits for politically related discussions, this column is instead focused on affairs of the heart – or more to the point, Valentine’s Day gift giving. Blood, that vital fluid that circulates life-giving oxygen, nutrients and other essentials is a gift you may not have considered. Former Bethany member and Disciple Jerry Retzlaff inspired this month’s column when he wrote this recently: “The complexity of the human body boggles the mind. If you’ve studied biochemistry, you know that blood by itself is an amazing conglomeration of cells and plasma, chemicals, enzymes and proteins. With
H2O, hemoglobin, hemeproteins, metalloproteins, glucose, coenzymes, cofactors, mineral ions, prosthetic groups -- the myriad functions and workings (let alone the sight of blood) may make one faint. As humans, we share the bond of blood, yet (also) seek a spiritual connection. As Christians, the complex becomes perfect simplicity. We know that because of His undying love and amazing grace, we are saved and bonded by the innocent blood of our Lord and Savior! It is apparent that the importance of this particular gift has always been in our awareness as people. Some of the earliest archeological evidence of formal burial by humans found that the mineral red ocher was used to give the deceased a semblance of vitality going into the unknown world of death. As Jerry notes, Christians see blood as a central element of not only life, but also salvation and gifting. Christ’s words to his disciples, to us, are about the gift. “… after the supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup
Staff & Leadership Pastors Ron Glusenkamp Senior Pastor Ruth Ann Loughry Associate Pastor Paul Gilbertson Visitation Pastor Caitlin Trussell Pastoral Intern
is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.’” Luke 22:20. So, this Valentine’s Day month, consider a gift to those who are in such a condition that the lack of this very essence may deprive them of life. Organizations such as the Red Cross, Children’s Hospital, and Bonfils Blood Center can help with one-time giving, or even with establishing a regular donation. For more information, try this link: http://www.bonfils.org/ -- JL If you have ideas to share with us or are interested in the work of the Health and Wellness Cabinet, please contact Jack Lindsey: drjacklindsey@earthlink.net.
Practice Healthy Habits During Flu Season to protect yourself and others from getting sick • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If a tissue is unavailable, cough or sneeze into your shoulder or elbow instead of your hands. • Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizer stations are now available in the BLC narthex, the hospitality desk and the fellowship hall in addition to restroom hand washing facilities. “Sharing of the peace” may be expressed through a traditional handshake or alternately, by other expressions of greeting such as a touch on the arm, a hand wave or other no-contact gestures of goodwill. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. • Get the seasonal flu vaccine and the 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine. A seasonal flu vaccine will NOT protect you against 2009 H1N1. Ask your doctor what flu vaccines are recommended for you. • Try to avoid close contact with sick people. • Keep sick children at home.
February 2010
Flu is a Serious Contagious Disease.
If you are sick with flu-like illness, the CDC recommends you stay • If you have flu-like symptoms (fever with cough or sore throat), stay home for at least 24 hours after home for at least 24 hours after you are free of fever without the use of your fever is gone except to get fever-reducing medications. medical care or for other necessiIf you are ill and not able to attend church, you are encouraged to continue ties. Flu – like symptoms associated with both the Seasonal Flu as participation through Bethany’s website http://www.bethany-denver.org/ well as the new, 2009 H1N1 Flu where sermons and other valuable ministry information is available. If include: you do not have computer access, please call the church at 303.758.2820 • Fever • Runny or stuffy for information to be mailed to you and/or for additional assistance. nose • Cough • Chills What else is BLC doing to minimize exposure to the flu? • Sore throat • Headache • Nursery toys are sanitized each week • Body aches • Communion Assistants use hand sanitizers before and after communion distribution • In partnership with BLC’s leadership and pastoral staff, your Health and • Fatigue Wellness Cabinet (HWC) welcome your support and assistance to stay • Some people may also have healthy during the 2009-2010 flu season. vomiting and diarrhea
Administrative Staff Joel Halvorson Director of Finance & Administration Audrey Phillips Communications Supervisor Shelley Hook Accounting Supervisor Lil Filegar Counting Team Leader Rhonda Merritt Office Manager Janice Lyon Assistant to Senior Pastor Gayle Newell Office Assistant Sarah Hulslander Hospitality Desk Coordinator Mike Johnson Technology Supervisor Frank Davis Facilities Supervisor Alfredo Gonzales Facilities Supervisor Tom Maes Facilities Ali Naitaqi Facilities Donna Skultety Wedding Consultant Chris Charron Kitchen Supervisor Programmatic Staff Rit Vogel Faith Formation Minister of Youth And Children Ed Joni Grundman Faith Formation Minister of Family Ministry Kevin Dragseth Faith Formation Minister of Youth
Music Staff Sheree Weverstad Interim Organist Daniel Grace Chancel Choir Director Pat Guittar Children’s Music Director Lisa Lewis Bell Choir Director Paula Wills WOW Coordinator Forrest Guittar, Jr. Festival of Faith & the Arts Zack Rodasti Youth Choir Director Alex Rodasti Youth Choir Director Bethany Early Childhood Center Mary Lloyd BECC Director Congregational Council Andy Gift (President) Peggy Furgason (Vice President) Don Abram (Treasurer) Heather Kekstadt (Secretary) Doug Aldrich Derek Birznieks Maren Diercks Dan George Becky Godec Brenda Greenwald Ron Guse Del Hock Heather Kekstadt Bill King Kevin McAuliffe Terry Pickett Michelle Stone Kraus Bethany Foundation Matt Christian David Claussen Kathy Gies David Gies Paul Godec Del Hock Terry Jeddeloh Julie Johnson Beth Walker Bethany Early Childhood Center Board Julie Bock Judi Burchfield Stephanie Davy Bill Moeller
Securing Bethany’s Future The mission of the Foundation of Bethany Lutheran Church is to provide a permanent financial resource for the future enrichment of our congregation. Through this mission, we are challenged to provide additional stewardship opportunities for members, friends of Bethany and our greater community for the purpose of God’s work. For more information, direct your inquiries to the church.
The Beacon (USPS001-513) is published monthly by Bethany Lutheran Church, 4500 E. Hampden Ave., Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113. (303) 758-2820; FAX (303) 7581980. Audrey Phillips, Editor. Periodicals postage paid at Englewood, CO. Postmaster: Send address changes to: The Beacon, Bethany Lutheran Church, 4500 E. Hampden Ave., Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113