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PASTOR’S PAGE
Dear Fellow Disciples at Bethlehem,
Three things this month: a transition, a possibility, and a prayer.
1. A Transition
Pastor Melanie Haack is resigning as visitation pastor effective July 1, 2015. She has been part-time at St.
James, Bradner for several years, quarter-time with us since 2011, and in the last few years has been serving also
at St. Mark’s, Bowling Green. An opportunity has emerged for her to increase her time at St. Mark’s and she has
gladly accepted their offer. Please see page 3 of this newsletter for Pastor Melanie’s resignation letter and plans
for this transition. Goodbyes are important!
In the near future, I will need all the help I can get with our ongoing visitation ministry. The good news is that the
church has wrestled with this need before and has wisdom for us. Read Acts 6:1-7.
2. A Possibility
We have an exciting possibility to prayerfully consider: being a supervisory site for a pastoral intern for
this coming fall and next program year (late August 2015 – August 2016).
In late April, I was contacted by Pastor Cathy Schibler, assistant to our Bishop, about Bethlehem being an
internship site for a local pastoral intern for 2015-2016. After praying about this possibility personally and with
the Congregation Council, it is now time for us to consider it as a congregation. On pages 4-6 of this newsletter,
you will find lots of information to read.
It is important to note that Bethlehem (as a congregation) and I (as a supervisor) were sought out by those who
guide our local seminary students and that Bethlehem is considered to be an ideal congregation for this intern
candidate.
I have asked our vision and mission team to be in prayer about this for a few weeks and I personally have been
praying as well. The idea was presented to the congregation council on May 19 and we would like to invite the
congregation to consider this possibility.
I invite you to read the attached documents and to prayerfully consider how the Holy Spirit is leading Bethlehem.
We will have open forums for questions and conversation in the Fellowship Hall on Sunday, June 7 and Sunday,
June 14 following morning worship.
On Sunday, June 21, 2015, following morning worship, we will have a congregational meeting for the sole
purpose of deciding whether or not we should more forward with this seminary internship possibility.
3. A Prayer
Both this transition and this possibility invite us to practice what we have been encouraging all year: the spiritual
practice of praying to seek God’s guidance daily. I invite your prayers over these things as we discern how the
Holy Spirit is guiding us.
As you pray, please read Acts 6:1-7 and Ephesians 4:1-16. Then watch this video that Pastor Jim Miller shared
with me: http://www.theocademy.com/lessons-for-ruling-elders-and-deacons/ (Lesson 1: Ordered Ministry). It
comes from the Presbyterian tribe, but will be helpful to us as well.
In Christ,
Pastor Matt Musteric
Page 1 - June/July 2015
Our Vision: Called by the Holy Spirit, we are a fully-devoted fellowship of believers, called to grow as disciples
and sent to make disciples, who are engaged in spiritual growth by:
1. PRAYING daily
3. WORSHIPING weekly
(from May)
FOR HEALING AND HOPE (Members): Karen O’Brien,
Karen Williams, Gay Holcomb, Earl Matthews, Virginia
Shammo, Mary Vestal, Beverly Bockbrader
FOR HEALING AND HOPE (Family and friends): Pastor
Bridgett Clark, Bill Pylant, Mary Selma Marten, Phyllis
Knopp, Jennie Lemaster, Lorrain Ross, Deb Omler, Sarah
(Witker) Rupert
This June and July we will be making our way through
the book of Nehemiah and listening for God’s Word to
us.
4. Connecting regularly in SMALL GROUPS
IN CELEBRATION OF THE BIRTH of Aubree Grace
Wasserman
PRISCILLA CIRCLE will meet on Monday, June 8, 7 p.m.,
in the church lounge.
FOR THE BAPTIZED: Talissah Dann
SUNDAY EVENINGS, in the Fellowship Hall, after the 6
p.m. meal, we are studying the book “Love as a Way of
Life” by Chapman.
FOR THE GRIEVING: For the families of Hazel Ellis, Glen
Dierksheide
FOR ALL YOUTH; FOR OUR MILITARY MEN AND
WOMEN; FOR OUR CHURCH
FOR OUR BISHOPS: Marcus Lohrmann, Elizabeth Eaton
FOR LOCAL MISSIONS: After School Youth Club, Snack
Pack Program, Good Samaritan Fund, Community Food
Pantry, Habitat for Humanity, The Linen Closet
MEN’S BIBLE STUDY and prayer group meets at First United
Presbyterian (106 Perry St.), every Thursday at 7 p.m.
MARY CIRCLE meets at First United Presbyterian (106
Perry St.) on the third Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m.
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY with prayer and breakfast meets
at First United Presbyterian (106 Perry St.) the first and
third Saturdays at 10 a.m.
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY & PRAYER meets every Tuesday
at Barb Forbe’s house (OPV, 806 Rose Court) at 7 p.m.
2. Reading the BIBLE daily
If you wish to form your own small group, please let the office know so we can share this
information with others.
5. GIVING generously
June 1: Proverbs 1
June 2: Proverbs 2
June 3: Proverbs 3
June 4: Proverbs 4
June 5: Proverbs 5
June 6: Proverbs 6
June 7: Nehemiah 1:1-11
June 8: Proverbs 7
June 9: Proverbs 8
June 10: Proverbs 9
June 11: Proverbs 10
June 12: Proverbs 11
June 13: Proverbs 12
June 14: Nehemiah 2:1-10
June 15: Proverbs 13
June 16: Proverbs 14
June 17: Proverbs 15
June 18: Proverbs 16
June 19: Proverbs 17
June 20: Proverbs 18
June 21: Nehemiah 2:10-20
June 22: Proverbs 19
June 23: Proverbs 20
June 24: Proverbs 21
June 25: Proverbs 22
June 26: Proverbs 23
June 27: Proverbs 24
June 28: Nehemiah 4:1-23
June 29: Proverbs 25
June 30: Proverbs 26
3. WORSHIPING weekly
Worship Attendance
(includes evenings):
Maundy Thursday: 118
Good Friday: 108
Easter Vigil: 43
April 5 (Easter): 423
April 12: 212
April 19: 200
April 26: 189
May 3: 124
May 10: 194
May 17 (Confirmation): 294
Bethlehem’s Financial Giving as of April 2015:
General Fund Income (Year-to-date)
Budget
Actual
Difference
$112,260
$104,956
($7,304)
Benevolence Fund (Year-to-date)
Actual
Difference
Budget
$13,332
$19,421
$4,089
6. SERVING Others (YTD)
Community Food Pantry: 115 family visits
Food Vouchers to IGA given out: 108
Good Samaritan Fund: helped 19 families
Sack Lunch: 179 lunches with bottled water
Snack Pack (weekend food): helped 190 families
7. WITNESSING at every opportunity
Have you had spiritual conversations with your neighbors
lately?
Whom are you inviting to worship? Bible study?
Page 2 - June/July 2015
Pastor Melanie will be Saying Goodbye
May 18, 2015
Greetings in the Name of Christ!
I’m writing to let you know I’m ending my service as your Visitation Pastor effective July 1. Just for your information: I’ll continue to be your neighbor. My ministry with St. James in Bradner continues and I’ll be expanding my
hours of ministry at St. Mark’s, Bowling Green—a little closer to my home.
Since 2011, I’ve treasured the opportunity to get to know you in so many ways. I’ve been blessed by you as
Christ has blessed us all:
• It’s been a great joy to get to know the many homebound and nursing care members, and share the
Sacrament, conversation and love, including those at our monthly Lutheran service at Otterbein;
• I’ve prayed with and for the many who were hospitalized and was relieved when they bounced back to
health and returned home;
• I’ve walked with the grieving;
• I’ve gotten to know so many of you around Bethlehem during the activities that make Bethlehem as alive as
ever and;
• I’ve been inspired by the warm and expanding family of the 5:00 p.m. Sunday service. I’ve been privileged to
share the Word and Sacrament at this service as well as many meals after. Bethlehem is blessed to have a
large and energetic group of leaders. Keep up the faithful work!
I want to thank the council for their visionary leadership, the staff for their hard work, often behind the scenes,
and their creative ways of expanding the ministry of Christ in Pemberville. Mostly I want to thank Pastor Matt
Musteric for his never ending positive attitude and energy. He has remained focused on teaching us all how to
grow in faith: through prayer, Scripture, the Sacraments, the Word, gathering through worship, cooperating
with local churches and teaching us how we can live as Disciples of Christ in the 21st Century. He lives out what
he teaches.
I will be praying for you now and in the future and I look forward to running into each other in our mutual
neighborhoods of Pemberville, Bradner and Bowling Green. You might even run into me at the Pemberville Fair
this summer. I’m sure I’ll be there.
Pastor Melanie Haack
Please join me in giving thanks for Pastor Melanie’s ministry among us! We have tentatively scheduled her
farewell to be Sunday, June 28, 2015, following the 5 pm evening worship service.
-Pastor Matt
In the meantime, you can send her cards and good wishes:
Pastor Melanie Haack
1629 Juniper Drive, Apt. #79
Bowling Green, OH 43402
Page 3 - June/July 2015
What is a Seminary Intern?
At Luther Seminary, internship is a core learning component in the formation of pastors and
Christian Public Leaders. An internship provides leadership experience under the supervision of
a pastor who serves as the student’s contextual educator and exemplar in pastoral ministry. Its
dual aim is (a) a developmental process of vocational formation and (b) growth in competence in
the various skills of ministry practice.
During internship, the student will serve in the role of a pastoral intern, engage in the full range
of ministry and professional experiences, hone knowledge and skills in proclaiming God's
promise in a variety of ways, join in the work of forming new communities, and/or equipping
existing communities to love and serve their neighbors. As part of internship, students will
complete a major project that deepens learning of particular leadership skills. These projects
could include areas such as administration, leadership, stewardship, conflict resolution,
revitalization, and ecumenism. Whatever the area of focus, the project will be designed to
support the ministry of the congregation, its connection the surrounding community and will
enhance the learning goals of the intern.
Interns are expected to have opportunities to participate in the full breadth of pastoral ministry –
preaching, teaching (adult, youth and children) pastoral care, worship leadership and planning,
administration and finances, program planning and implementation, evangelism, and so on. The
intern meets weekly with the supervising pastor to talk about ministry leadership, theological
reflection and the development of pastoral identity and skills. This is separate from the more
regular check-ins about event planning, preaching schedule, calendaring and so on.
It is also expected that there will be a committee of five to eight congregational members who
meet monthly with the intern. Committee members, who have been invited by the supervising
pastor to serve in this role, agree to serve as a place of support and hospitality to the intern
(and their family) and to offer timely and productive feedback. This feedback takes place
conversations with the intern and by way of two written evaluations at the midpoint and at the
end of the internship year. Committee members can expect to learn, grow and at times struggle
together as you help the intern and each other develop your unique ministry in the context of the
congregation and your own lives.
Throughout the year, the seminary staff member assigned to oversee the internship will read the
online learning goals, project proposal and report, as well as the evaluations from the intern,
supervisor and internship committee. There will also be opportunities for phone or Skype
check-ins with the intern and supervisor, as well as with the internship committee (if desired)
during the year.
Luther Seminary and the Contextual Learning staff welcome the opportunity to partner with
congregations that are willing to serve as a teaching site, offering opportunities and experiences
for a student to learn and lead in ministry.
Page 4 - June/July 2015
Internship Cost Summary for 2015-2016
Stipend: $16,800 ($1,400/mo)
Car/Mileage: IRS standard rate.
Work Expenses: By agreement between supervisor and intern.
Cluster Meetings: Cost borne by congregation.
New Supervisor Workshop: Done as a conference call or online forum
FICA: $1,285.
Travel Pool: $500 – billed by Luther Seminary after the internship begins (this is paid by all
congregations regardless of whether the intern is moving for the internship year).
Admin Fee: $1000 – billed by Luther Seminary after the internship begins
Total Cost (excluding reimbursed mileage & work expenses) : $19,585
Read More About It
You can read more details about what a seminary insternship is at Luther Seminary's web
pages:
Luther Seminary Main Internship Site
http://www2.luthersem.edu/contextual_learning/internship.asp
Application Process
http://www2.luthersem.edu/contextual_learning/internship/for_congregations.asp
Basic Expectations of Internship Sites
http://www2.luthersem.edu/contextual_learning/internship/expectations.asp
Financial Matters
http://www2.luthersem.edu/contextual_learning/internship/financial.asp
The Lay Internship Committee
http://www.luthersem.edu/contextual_learning/internship/lay_committee.aspx
The Lay Internship Committee Guide (PDF):
http://www2.luthersem.edu/contextual_learning/internship/resources/
Lay_Committee_Guide.pdf
Page 5 - June/July 2015
Intern Candidate Eric Johnson
Greetings in Christ! My name is Eric Johnson and I am a candidate for Ordained Ministry of
Word and Sacrament in the ELCA and a student at Luther Seminary in the Distributive Learning
program. I am excited about the possibility of serving as intern pastor at Bethlehem Lutheran
Church!
I have spent my entire life here in Northwest Ohio and am a graduate of Bowling Green
State University with a degree in communication. Prior to seminary, I worked in the private
sector in sales, marketing, and management for three companies: Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Sysco
Food Services, and Fifth Third Bank. While these careers were a blessing to me, I have known
since I was 18 that I was called to occupational ministry. I come from a diverse faith background,
having grown up Presbyterian, leaving the church at 15, coming back to faith and serving as a
volunteer with Young Life after high school, and being involved in youth and young adult
ministry in more Evangelical settings. When I began my current position as Director of College
Ministry at Threshold Church, I was challenged for the first time to become more theologically
grounded. Over time, I found myself very much at home within the Lutheran tradition, which led
to discernment regarding ordination and eventual entrance into the candidacy process.
Along the way, I met an amazing woman of God who would become my wife. Laura and I
have been married for almost five years and have two beautiful daughters, Emma (two years old)
and Leah (3 months old). Laura is a fourth grade teacher in Perrysburg at Toth Elementary and
was raised in the Methodist tradition. Throughout our marriage, we have served as partners in
ministry. Laura is a great support and encouragement to me, as well as being an incredible
mommy to our girls. Without her, I would not be the man I am today, and I am so blessed that
God brought us together.
In ministry, I am passionate about seeing God’s people live into their baptismal identities,
grow as disciples in the context of community, and participate in God’s mission in the world. I
love to preach as well as sit with others in discernment over how God is speaking into their lives
and how they will faithfully respond. I am particularly interested at this stage of my life in
ministry amongst families and how the Church might foster family faith formation, both in the
congregational setting as well as in the home. I am hopeful that there will be opportunities
during internship to lean into this interest in a way that will bless the congregation I am serving.
Thank you again for this opportunity to share more about myself and my journey. I look
forward to the possibility of future conversations!
In Christ,
Eric Johnson
Page 6 - June/July 2015
VBS
GROW
VBS TRAINING will be held on May 30, at 9 a.m.,
or June 4, at 7 p.m., in the Fellowship Hall. If you are
interested in helping please attend one of the above
meetings.
MEN’S MONTHLY BREAKFAST/BIBLE STUDY
All men of the congregation & community
are invited to participate.
Contact: Don Gerke (419-287-3873)
We will meet on Saturday, June 6, at 7 a.m., in the
Fellowship Hall.
We will not meet in July or August.
Vacation Bible School 2015
June 8-12
8:30-11:45 a.m.
Come follow Jesus through his hometown of Nazareth
this summer at Bethlehem! We’ll meet Jesus’ mother,
learn about his childhood, and follow him to see God
working in our own lives every day. Bible stories,
great music, snacks, crafts, games and service projects
will help us learn more about Jesus and share his love
with everyone we meet.
Please bring a plain white t-shirt to decorate, and a
baby item to donate to the Bowling Green Pregnancy
Center.
Register online at:
tinyurl.com/register4vbs
Parish Ed will be having a meeting Wednesday,
June 3, at 6 p.m. to discuss the 2015 Christmas
program. Anyone interested is invited to attend.
We will be discussing/deciding: Who? What?
Where? When? Please bring your thoughts and
ideas.
SIGN UP FOR
COFFEE HOUR HOST
Please visit: tinyurl.com/BLCcoffee to sign-up. A hard
copy of this sign-up sheet is available at church in the
hallway, if you want to check it when at church. You
may also call Marlene Meyer at 419-287-4671 or the
church office to get your name put on the list. Thank
you for your willingness to serve and support this
fellowship opportunity!
NEWSLETTERS
2015 High School Graduates
From Woodmore:
From Eastwood:
Sierra Corns
Todd Eisenhour
James Gentry
Jonathan Heckman,
Timothy Hoodlebrink
Julie Barbee
Zachary Jacoby
Katelyn Lang
Rebecca Lang
If you wish to be able to read your newsletter online
please let the office know and we will remove you
from our post office mailing list.
We will email you the link to the newsletter every
month where you can read it online or print it off.
There will be no attachments. Please email the office
if you wish to receive the newsletter this way:
office@bethlehempemberville.org. Thank you.
Page 7 - June/July 2015
SERVE
COUNCIL
APRIL 21, 2015
Bethlehem Lutheran
Church Women
BLCW
KNOTTING DATES: Join us in tying blankets for Lutheran
World Relief and local nursing homes on Tuesdays,
June 23 and July 28, at 9 a.m., in the basement.
BOARD MEETING: No meetings in June or July.
WE COLLECT: Knit Crosheen thread, used eyeglasses,
used hearing aids, UPC codes, cell phones, and more.
Please look in the BLCW handbook for more information.
COLLECTIONS of items can be dropped off in the Mission
Action Center (room 111).
PRICELESS PANCAKES
Serving FREE pancakes on
Saturday, June 27 and July 25, from 8-11 a.m.
at First United Presbyterian Church
in Pemberville (106 Perry St.).
Carry outs available.
Share fellowship and a free meal.
Volunteers needed! All you need to do is show
up at the next event, before 8 a.m., and help with
carry outs, taking orders, serving, making batter
and helping where ever needed!
Pemberville Fair Booth & Float
It’s time to begin planning for the fair.
We will be sponsoring a booth in the commercial tent this
year. If you have any information you would like displayed
or pictures we can include in our digital frame slideshow of
recent events, please contact Cheryl in the office. We also
will need some volunteers to run some activities at the table
during the fair.
Anyone interested in building/entering a float in the grand
parade should contact Cheryl for more details. We would
like to form a group to work on this. Ideas, supplies, and
manpower needed.
You may sign-up online at tinyurl.com/FairBoothSignUp,
at church, or by calling the church office.
DEVOTIONS:
Pastor Matt asked for prayer concerns and led prayer;
broke into small groups for book discussion
CONSENT CALENDAR (FYI) ITEMS:
Emergency Shelter Designations:
Pemberville Elementary School
Otterbein Portage Valley
Operation Pack a Suitcase, Boyk Family: Honduras
Any donated items must be at Bethlehem by May 10 to be
sent with group in May.
May calendar reviewed by all present.
Pastor Matt on vacation May 2-10. Pastor Melanie to cover.
Travis Ford taking a group to Just Pancakes at St. Paul’s
Lutheran Church in Downtown Toledo to serve pancakes,
leaving Bethlehem at 7:00 am, May 2, 2015.
Confirmation Sunday - May 17
Summer Session Sunday School starts May 31, 2015 (We
will be studying the book of Nehemiah.) Theme is “Stirred
up by the Holy Spirit”. Parents, grandparents, aunts,
uncles, families are invited to participate in the lessons.
NEW BUSINESS:
Global Mission Prayer Team Proposal: Would like to use
money for mission support in Rwanda -no extra cost.
Team has money and is actively collecting each quarter
using existing envelopes. Estimated collection $2,000 annually. Motion by Paulette Bresler and second by Neil
Karns.
ELCA Youth Gathering in Detroit Michigan Proposal
Request by Mackenzie Albright: Request made by
Mackenzie Albright to attend ELCA retreat to cover
expenses. Stefany recommended, Ken Finley made a motion to pay $325 for registration; second by Linda Gerwin.
OLD BUSINESS:
Synod Assembly Voting Members (3) May 15-16: Pastor
Matt, Jane Kohlenberg going, and two others.
Scholarship Proposal by for Active Graduating Seniors:
Stefany Jacoby discussed motion that was tabled last
month for a one time scholarship for active graduating
seniors to receive $200 for college after submittal of an
application and youth leaders to decide recipients each
year. Intent of scholarship is to keep connection between
church and youth that are pursuing higher education.
Money could be used from Schuerman Schroeder Fund.
Youth receiving money will need to fill out and submit
application and be prepared to discuss discipleship growth
or continuing faith journey at church or “temple talk.” Motion
to accept by Stefany Jacoby; second by Ken Finley.
Council representation made for the following committees:
Parish Education - Stefany Jacoby
Hospitality - Neil Karns
Faith in Action - Still needed
Good Samaritan/Food Pantry - Larry Titkemeier attended
committee meeting
Music - Larry Titkemeier
Investment - Matt Oestreich
Closed with the Lord’s Prayer and group recited the
Mission Statement.
Respectfully submitted by Linda Black for Beth McCowin,
Council Secretary
Page 8 - June/July 2015
GIVE
Gifts in memory of...
Designated Funds: Memorial Fund unless marked.
B=Building; CI=Capital Improvement; G=General;
M=Music; R=Radio; W=World Hunger
HAZEL ELLIS
Anna Louise and Janet Witker
M/M Ron Geisbuhler
M/M Bob Dierker
M/M John Bresler & Family
M/M Nigel Davies
Tom Geisbuhler and Terri Ahle M/M Dale Melcher
Carolyn Borcherding
M//M Vincent Harsanje
M/M Ray Kohlenberg
M/M Bill McCowin
On a average, women in Africa
walk more than three miles a day
to fetch clean water for their
families. A five gallon container
weighs 40 pounds when full. By
investing in clean water that is
readily
accessible,
children
around the world can thrive. In
June and July we will have a
"Living Water Station" set up near
our lounge where we will explore ways to help
provide clean water to people in developing
countries.
SNACK PACK BAGS
We packed weekend food for the months of September
2014 through May 2015, delivered, then sent home through
the schools to participating families. This school year we
packed a total of 352 bags.
Grace’s Place ~ Luckey, Ohio
Grace’s Place is a new free-store at 246 Main
Street in Luckey. They offer free coffee, free
household goods and free clothing for both
children and adults. They are open on Tuesdays
and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and
Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.
Volunteers and assistance is needed to support
this ministry. Organizers are looking for sorters,
counter staff and hospitality hosts. Donations of
clothing, household goods and money to help
cover operations and other needs can be made
during their business hours or by calling Grace
Lutheran Church at 419-833-2146.
Bethlehem again received recognition at the Synod
Assembly for being one of the top churches in Mission
Support for the Synod for 2014. During the conference they
shared that their budget is being challenged. They have
made severe cuts in their organization and in order to
continue the good work they are doing, they asked if each
congregation gave $100 more per month ($1,200 per year)
for Mission Support they would reach their budget for
2015. Forty Nine percent of our Benevolence funds
for Mission Support stays at the synod level, and 51% goes
to the ELCA national office. There are many projects that
at the congregation level won't make a difference but when
we together put the funds to work it can do great things.
If you might be interested in electronic giving, please talk
to me. We have a few members who are making their
contributions to the church in that way. It makes it easy and
consistent. Remember as we go into summer, attendance
seems to decline, but the church expenses do not stop, so
please consider your gifts to the church even if you don't
attend on any particular Sunday. ~Jane Kohlenberg
Annual Ice Cream Social
At Lutheran Home at Toledo (131 N Wheeling St.)
Wednesday, June 10, from 4-7 p.m.
Dessert Donations needed, please contact Diane Cline
at 419-724-1738. Desserts must be brought to the
facility by 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 19, and taken
into the coffee shop.
Flowers and
Radio Broadcast
Flower and Radio Broadcast sign up sheets are in the
hallway, on a clipboard, outside the offices. They are on
separate sheets, so if you wish to sign up for both on the
same date you will need to check two places.
FLOWERS ($33):
July 19
September 13, 20, 27
October 4
Page 9 - June/July 2015
RADIO ($75):
July 19
August 23
September 6, 20, 27
CONNECT
Mud Hens Family Outing
Saturday, July 11
Join us and the Mud Hens for a
"Back To The Future" double header!
The first game begins at 5 p.m. and will feature the
Mud Hens playing in throw back 1980s style jerseys
with retro game effects.
An American Style Dinner Buffet including
hamburgers, hotdogs and all the fixings will be served
6:30-8 p.m.
The second game will begin at approximately 7 p.m.
and will feature the Mud Hens in futuristic jerseys with
other futuristic effects.
End your evening with the post game fireworks!
Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children 10 and
under and includes one or both games.
Sign-up to your on the clipboards outside the office, or
online at: http://tinyurl.com/CLCMUDHENS
Please leave payment in church office, or send to:
Bethlehem Lutheran Church, PO Box 344,
Pemberville, OH 43450
h Thank you for all the kind words, prayers, cards,
memorials and food extended to us during Hazel Ellis’
journey home to God. Visits, prayers and communion
from Pastor Matt and Pastor Melanie were deeply
appreciated. Thank you. We are truly blessed. ~ Judy
and John Keiser; Brian and Jenny Keiser; Greg, Karen,
Emily and Morgan Keiser and Christopher Keiser.
h Thanks to the BLCW (women of the church) for the
sweet “Dots” of remembrance and the handmade book
marker. ~Jane Westerhaus
h Thank you to the BLCW for your beautiful gift and visit.
They were very much appreciated. ~Ardella Rolf
h Thank you to Pastor Matt and Pastor Melanie for your
visits to the hospital and to Wood Haven. I enjoyed
them very much. ~Ardella Rolf
h Thank you to the BLCW for the gift of “Dots.”
The message was very encouraging, the gum drops
are a way to my heart and the pen will be used to work
lots of crossword puzzles. Thanks for blessing me and
may God bless all of your as you do His work.
~ Jim Alexander.
GO HENS!
h Thank you for reaching out to touch the lives of
CAMPERSHIPS: This year we have a total of eight
students attending Christian camps through our
campership program. Pray for these youth while they
take time away this summer to draw closer to God.
h Thank you for your recent gift of $1221 to the Lutheran
POP TABS FOR
RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE
Nicholas Kissell, of Pemberville Troop #344, has gifted
Bethlehem with a pop tab collection bin. Nicholas has
Kearns Sayre Syndrome, a mitochondrial disease, which
has led him and his family to use and understand the
Ronald McDonald House (RMH) ministry. Wanting to
support this cause and help other families in times of illness
crisis, Nick decided to lead a group of scouts to make pop
tab donation collection bins and put them in community
buildings to raise awareness and gather support for RMH
for his Eagle project. Nick has delivered our bin, which
right now, is located outside the kitchen near our recycle
bins. (During the winter, it may find an alternate home to
accommodate coats.) Remember to save those tabs at all
the BBQs and graduation parties you attend this summer.
Let's see how fast we can fill the bin! Thank you Nick!
individuals. We deeply appreciate your recent gift
of $1851 for the Toledo Lutheran Social Service
Ministries. ~Nancy Yunker
Homes Society General Fund. Your sharing warms my
heart and brings back so many fond memories. You are
a true gift from God! ~Dr. Jim Dumke
h Thank you to everyone who donated food for this
program and to Sandy Abke and the Volunteers at the
Senior Center for packing lunches this winter.
Together, we provided 324 meals for the homeless this
winter through St. Paul’s Community Center in Toledo.
We will pack lunches again in September.
h Parish Ed wishes to thank our faithful Sunday School
teaching staff: Natalie Schuerman, Rebecca Lang,
Jennifer Lang, Katelyn Lang, Linda Black, Marilyn
Linkey, Abbey Smith, Susan Lang, Pam Frankfather,
Paulette Bresler, Pastor Matt, Becky Buchman, Travis
Ford and Lisa Kohlenberg. Also, special thanks to Lisa
Ruck and Jacob Henry for providing music for our
openings. Your time, effort, and commitment to the
education of our children are appreciated!
h Thank you for your recent gift of $1024 to Luther Home
of Mercy. What a huge witness and encouragement
you are in ministry! ~Rev. Donald Wukotich
Page 10 - June/July 2015
June
Memory Verse for June
Bible verse: Hebrews 10:24-25
And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and
good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit
of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as
you see the Day approaching.
June’s Mission Action project
Items for Lutheran World Relief
Fabric Kits
Please include the following items in each Fabric
Kit:
Two pieces of cotton or cotton-blend fabric (no
knits or 100% polyester). Fabric should have no
stains or holes and be cut into pieces measuring:
2 yards of 60” wide fabric, or
3 yards of 44” or 45” wide fabric, or
4 yards of 36” wide fabric
Two spools of matching general purpose thread,
250-300 yards.
Do not add other items or leave out any of the items listed.
Fold and roll each piece separately (rolling thread inside
one piece of fabric), bundle together and tie with a piece of
yarn, sturdy string, ribbon or strip of fabric. Do not enclose
fabric kit or contents in a plastic bag.
B ethlehem
L utheran
C hurch
W omen
ALL WOMEN ARE INVITED TO THE CIRCLE MEETING:
Priscilla Circle:
Monday, June 8, 7 p.m.
Bible Study:
Becky Buchman
Devotions:
Paulette Bresler
The purpose of this gathering is to share God’s word and
fellowship with one another. Please come any time, nothing
special is required. Dress is casual. Bible study materials
are provided. A small offering is collected if you feel able to
give.
You are invited to an Open House
Eleanor Rolf will be celebrating her 100th birthday on Sunday, June 21, 2015. You are invited to
an open house held at the Bowlus Life Center at
Otterbein Portage Valley from 2:30-4 p.m.
Eleanor has been a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church since her birth on June 18, 1915.
She now resides at 803 Rose Court, Pemberville,
Ohio. No gifts please.
Please place items in the tubs in the Mission Center (room
111) or at the Cedar Street entrance, marked Mission
Action Projects. Thank you for your support!
Blood Pressure Sunday
Sunday, June 14, 30 minutes before and
after the 9 a.m. service, with Nurse April.
June 80+ Birthdays
THANK YOU TO THOSE SERVING IN JUNE
Acolytes, 9 a.m.
Bryce Downey, Samantha Rost
9 a.m. Worship
Usher: Hunter Shiffler
Altar Flowers
Wilma Rolf, Mickey Gerwin
Altar Guild
Barb Emch, Megan Hummel
Office Window
Service Org. (Funerals)
Use this list to send a card or give a greeting…
June 4:
June 10:
June 14:
June 28:
June 29:
Doris Rahe
June 8: Richard Beeker
Robert Bruning
June 12: Carol Beeker
Arlene Layman
June 18: Eleanor Rolf
Dorothy Karns
Beverly Bockbrader, Ruth Sander
Volunteer needed
Mickey Gerwin, Ruth Peters
If your 80+ birthday is not included here, we don’t have that information, please call the office.
Page 11 - June/July 2015
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
June 2015
Sunday
Praying to
seek God’s
guidance
daily.
220 Cedar Street, PO Box 344, Pemberville, OH 43450
Phone: 419-287-4182 Email: office@bethlehempemberville.org
Church Office Hours: M-F, 9am-2pm y Senior Center: M-F, 10am-2pm, FH y Extended Care: 6:30am-6pm
Monday
Tuesday
1
Page 12 - June/July 2015
7
8
9am Worship
10:20am Sunday School
10:30am Open Forum
for Intern
5pm Contemporary Worship
7pm Priscilla Circle, Lounge
Wednesday
Thursday
2
3
4
7pm Worship & Music
10am Communion at OPV
7pm Praise Team, FH
9
10
11
Friday
5
Saturday
6
7am Men’s Breakfast and
Bible Study, FH
12
13
7pm Praise Team, FH
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL - HOMETOWN NAZARETH - 8:30-11:45 A.M.
14
9am Worship
Blood Pressures, lounge
10:20am Sunday School
10:30am Open Forum
for Intern
5pm Contemporary Worship
6:15pm 4H
15
16
7pm Vision and Mission
7pm Council Meeting
21
22
23
9am Worship
10:20am Sunday School
10:30am Congregational Mtg
5pm Contemporary Worship
28
9am Worship
10:20am Sunday School
5pm Contemporary Worship
6pm Pr. Melanie’s Farewell
6:15pm 4H
9am Knotting, basement
17
24
18
19
20
7pm Praise Team, FH
5pm Wedding rehearsal
3pm Wedding
25
26
27
7pm Praise Team, FH
Evening rehearsal
8-11am Priceless Pancakes
Presbyterian Church, Pemb
2pm Blessing of Marriage
29
30
Mission Statement
Transformed by the crucified and
risen Jesus we are a loving
community of disciples
making disciples.
KEY:
ASYC: After School Youth Club
BLCW-Bethlehem Lutheran
Church Women
FH-Fellowship Hall
FUPC-First United Presby.
OPV-Otterbein-Portage Valley
July
Memory Verse for July
Bible verse: Matthew 4:19
And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you
fish for people."
July Mission Action project
Items for Cocoon Shelter
The Cocoon Shelter is committed to providing
safe emergency housing to battered women and
their children in Wood County at no cost. Due to
the changing needs and limited storage of the
facility, money will be collected during a “noisy
offering” at all church services in July and
donated for shelter operations.
St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Bowling Green,
manages a car donation and furniture bank for
women of this shelter. Call St. Mark’s (419-3536675) if you have items to share.
Attention Women of the Church!
The BLCW's Mission Growth committee announces
the first of the annual prayer breakfasts. Mark your
calendars for Saturday, July 11, starting at 9 a.m., in
the Fellowship Hall. We are pleased to have Pastor
Melanie Haack as our study leader. Bring your Bibles;
other materials will be provided.
What happens at a prayer breakfast? We will have
a light breakfast, a Bible study and closing prayer.
Remembering that daily Bible reading is in our Vision
Statement, here is a great opportunity to have
breakfast, good fellowship and scriptural study. Plan
to attend!
Blood Pressure Sunday
Sunday, July 12, 30 minutes before and
after the 9 a.m. service, with Nurse April.
Reading the BIBLE daily
July 1: Proverbs 27
July 2: Proverbs 28
July 3: Proverbs 29
July 4: Proverbs 30
July 5: Nehemiah 5:1-13
July 6: Proverbs 31
July 7: Ephesians 1
July 8: Ephesians 2
July 9: Ephesians 3
July 10: Ephesians 4
July 11: Ephesians 5
July 12: Nehemiah 6:1-19
July 13: Ephesians 6
July 14: Ezra 1
July 15: Ezra 2
July 16: Ezra 3
Podiatry Clinics
July 17: Ezra 4
July 18: Ezra 5
July 19: Nehemiah 8:1-18
July 20: Ezra 6
July 21: Ezra 7
July 22: Ezra 8
July 23: Ezra 9
July 24: Ezra 10
July 25: Nehemiah 1
July 26: Nehemiah 9:1-21
July 27: Nehemiah 2
July 28: Nehemiah 3
July 29: Nehemiah 4
July 30: Nehemiah 5
July 31: Nehemiah 6
by Maumee Bay Foot & Ankle Specialists
Pemberville Area Senior Center
Wednesdays, July 1, 11 a.m.
in Bethlehem’s Fellowship Hall
Call Sandy at 419-287-4109 to be added to the schedule
Use this list to send a card or give a greeting…
July 80+ Birthdays
THANK YOU TO THOSE SERVING IN JULY
Acolytes, 9 a.m.
Ross Beaverson, Volunteer needed
9 a.m. Worship
Usher: Lilly Schuerman
Altar Flowers
Altar Guild
Office Window
Service Org. (Funerals)
Faye Schuerman
Karen Godfrey, Sharon Nigh
July 3:
July 6:
July 14:
July 18:
July 26:
Mary Vestal
Donna Beeker, Doug Wegman
Ed Aring, Alton Beeker
Eleanor Long
July 19: Lois Henline
Jane Westerhaus July 27: Hazel Ellis
Vacation Bible School
Barb Emch, Marilyn Linkey
If your 80+ birthday is not included here, we don’t have that
information, please call the office.
Page 13 - June/July 2015
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
July 2015
Sunday
Church Office Hours: M-F, 9am-2pm y Senior Center: M-F, 10am-2pm, FH y Extended Care: 6:30am-6pm
Monday
Praying to
seek God’s
guidance
daily.
5
220 Cedar Street, PO Box 344, Pemberville, OH 43450
Phone: 419-287-4182 Email: office@bethlehempemberville.org
Tuesday
Mission Statement
Transformed by the crucified and
risen Jesus we are a loving
community of disciples
making disciples.
6
7
Wednesday
Thursday
1
2
10am Communion at OPV
7pm Praise Team, FH
8
9
Page 14 - June/July 2015
9am Worship
10:20am Sunday School
5pm Contemporary Worship
Friday
Saturday
3
4
10
11
7pm Praise Team, FH
INDEPENDENCE DAY
9:30am-Noon BLCW Prayer
Breakfast, FH
5pm Mud Hens outing
Pastor Matt, vacation
12
13
14
15
9am Worship
Blood Pressures, lounge
10:20am Sunday School
5pm Contemporary Worship
6:15pm 4H
19
9am Worship
10:20am Sunday School
5pm Contemporary Worship
6:15pm 4H
17
18
24
25
7pm Praise Team, FH
20
9am Worship
10:20am Sunday School
5pm Contemporary Worship
26
16
21
22
7pm Council Meeting
27
28
9am Knotting, basement
23
9am Newsletter Assembly FH
7pm Praise Team, FH
29
30
7pm Praise Team, FH
Pastor Matt, vacation
8-11am Priceless Pancakes
Presbyterian Church, Pemb
31
Aug. 1
ASYC: After School Youth Club
BLCW: Church Women
FH-Fellowship Hall
FUPC-First United Presby.
OPV-Otterbein-Portage Valley
Here is a list of our homebound members. Please use this list to send a card or make a visit (please call first). If
your name or phone number is not included here please call the church office and let us know your information.
ROBERT “RED” & CAROL BEEKER
257 South Street, Pemberville 43450
Phone: 419-287-3335
BEVERLY BOCKBRADER
609 Water Street, Pemberville 43450
Phone: 419-287-4383
HELEN BUSHMAN
412 Maple Street, Pemberville
Phone: 419-287-4797
ROBERTA CAJKA
20431 Layman Road, Bowling Green 43402
Phone: 419-833-2416
BRUCE EHMKE
16276 Chamberlain Rd., Bowling Green 43402
Phone: 419-352-0466
MARGE EHMKE
Waterford at Levis Commons
7100 S Wilkinson Way #338, Perrysburg 43551
Phone: 419-874-2294
HAZEL ELLIS
Wood Haven, 1965 E Gypsy Lane, Room 206
Bowling Green 43402
Phone: 419-353-8411
LOIS HENLINE
Otterbein Portage Valley, Apt. 718
20311 Pemberville Rd., Pemberville
Phone: 419-833-2083
DONNA HISER
1627 Juniper Driver, Apt. 65, BG 43402
Phone: 419-352-7193
GAY HOLCOMB
Otterbein Portage Valley, Room 115
20311 Pemberville Rd., Pemberville
Phone: 419-833-9475
HOMER JOHNSON
Sterling House of Bowling Green, Room 20
121 North Wintergarden Road, BG 43402
DOROTHY KRUMNOW
611 S Main Street, Gibsonburg 43431
Phone: 419-637-7772
BOB LADD
210 Vine Street, Pemberville 43450
Phone: 419-287-4546
AILEEN MARTEN
Heritage Corner Health Care
1069 Klotz Road, Bowling Green 43402
EARL MATTHEWS
172 Hickory St., Pemberville 43450
JOHN MICHEL
Otterbein Portage Valley, Room 117
20311 Pemberville Rd., Pemberville
Phone: 419-833-1303
DORIS RAHE
Otterbein Portage Valley, Room 113
20311 Pemberville Rd., Pemberville
MAE RIFE
Wood Haven, 1965 E Gypsy Lane
Bowling Green 43402
ARDELLA ROLF
Wood Haven, 1965 E Gypsy Lane
Bowling Green, 43402
ELEANOR ROLF
Otterbein Portage Valley
803 Rose Court, Pemberville
Phone: 419-575-6756
RUTH SANDER
Otterbein Portage Valley, Room 127
20311 Pemberville Rd., Pemberville
Phone: 419-833-1110
VIRGINIA SHAMMO
Otterbein Portage Valley, Room 118
ANNA SMEARSOLL
Genoa Care Center,
300 Cherry Street #47, Genoa 43430
Phone: 419-855-3657
BETTY WESTERHAUS
Wood Haven Health Care
1965 E Gypsy Lane Room 207, BG 43402
LOIS WIEGMAN
Otterbein Portage Valley, Room 111
20311 Pemberville Rd., Pemberville
Phone: 419-833-2244
Page 15 - June/July 2015
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
PO Box 344
Pemberville, OH 43450
Issue 06-2015
NON-PROFIT
US POSTAGE PAID
PEMBERVILLE OH
PERMIT #1
RETURN Service Requested
Dated material, do not delay
Bethlehem Star
Bethlehem Lutheran Church
Pastor Matthew Musteric
Visitation Pastor Melanie Haack
June & July 2015
Transformed by the crucified and risen
Jesus we are a loving community of
disciples making disciples.
419-287-4182
Office hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., M-F
BethlehemPemberville.org
office@bethlehempemberville.org
Radio: WFRO 99.1 FM, Sundays at 11:30 a.m.
Sunday Worship: 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Sunday School for all ages: 10:20 a.m.
Page 16 - June/July 2015