The Bethany Blueprint

Transcription

1 B e th a n y L ut h e r a n C h u r ch Volume 13, Issue 1 The Chimes is published monthly by Bethany Lutheran Church A Great Commission Congregation 4644 Clark Avenue Long Beach, CA (562) The Bethany Blueprint SEPTEMBER 2018 In 25 years of preaching I ve never had so many people contact me about ONE SENTENCE in a sermon. In preaching on Paul s words from Ephesians 5, Be imitators of God I began by sharing how I loved to torment my little sister when I was young by copying her. I freely admit I that it was neither good, right nor salutary; and I freely confess that it was enjoyable for me to irritate her, frustrate her and exasperate her as I would imitate her! The goal was of course to get her to scream those words which rang with sinful pleasure in my young ears, DAD! He s copying me! Paul calls us to imitate God, obviously not for irritation, frustration or exasperation but replication of God s work. (If you missed that message you can listen to the sermon from Aug. 12 on the Bethany pod cast) In the message we explored God s gracious mercy and the truth that as we forgive those who ve sinned against us we replicate the work of God; the work we ve undeservedly received through Jesus. How, as we in word and deed demonstrate that God s grace and mercy are for all and none more or less than others, we imitate Him. This led to that line of which I spoke at the start of this article, the last line in the sermon when I pondered, The words which must bring holy pleasure to the angel s ears is when the Son whispers, Father, they re copying me! The reason I bring this up, is that it has caused me to realize something I ve not considered previously. Our Bethany Blueprint describes the kind of people we want to be; yet it also describes the person Jesus is, and was in His earthly ministry. Thus as we live out the Blueprint we are actively imitating Him. Jesus loved His Father s House. He knew the Torah, Prophets and Psalms in both word and deed. He Worshipped Faithfully; and as we worship faithfully we imitate Him. Staff: Kevin Kritzer Senior Pastor Seth Moorman Pastor of Family Life & Youth Carol McDaniel Minister of Music Karl Fink DCE: Care Ministry Mary Fink School Principal Mary Wolfinbarger Preschool Director Kayleigh Lopez Minister of Youth Submit monthly articles to Aimee Coleman, ext. 20 acoleman@bethanylutheran.org Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, He spent personal time with His Father, surrounded Himself in the company of disciples and, at least on the Mount of Transfiguration, found encouragement from saints of old. Jesus Formed Spiritually; and as we form spiritually we imitate Him. Jesus put Himself in the position to engage in Gospel conversation. From sitting at a well in Samaria, to walking past a Sycamore Tree in Jericho, to remaining behind at the Temple in Jerusalem, Jesus over and over again found ways to Share Intentionally; as we share intentionally we imitate Him. Jesus never held back when He began to act. Even on those occasion when it appears He hesitated to intervene, Dear Woman, why do you involve me? Don t you know I ve come only for the lost sheep of Israel? Jesus still holds nothing back, You ve saved the best for last. You have great faith, your request is granted! (see John 2 and Matthew 15 for these accounts) Jesus Served Passionately; as we Serve Passionately we imitate Him. Jesus gave Himself, the just for the unjust to bring us to God. Let s be honest, Jesus didn t give proportionately; He gave disproportionately, He gave everything when He owed nothing! He gave all, from every perfect thought to every holy deed, from His last drop of blood to His final breath Jesus gave it all! As we give ourselves like living sacrifices and embrace the truth that all we have is gift from Him leading us to Give Proportionately we imitate Him! Father, They re Copying Me will be the overarching theme of our Bethany Blueprint Series this Fall. September 23 rd Forming Spiritually September 30 th Serving Passionately October 7 th Worshipping Faithfully October 14 th Giving Proportionately October 21 st Sharing Intentionally

2 PAGE 2 CHIMES VOLUME 13, ISSUE 1 MEMBERSHIP at BETHANY Bethany 101 and Bethany 201 are courses that explore the key truths of the Christian faith from a Lutheran perspective and the process and purpose of membership at Bethany using the Bethany Blueprint as our design. Attendance at 101 is required for those joining Bethany Lutheran Church. Bethany 201 is required for those joining Bethany Lutheran apart from the transferring of membership from another LCMS congregation. Those transferring membership are welcome to attend. Bethany 101 is a one session experience where we talk about the history of Bethany, our vision, structure and the Bethany blueprint. Bethany 201 covers the core basics of the Christian faith from a Lutheran perspective, in 4 sessions. We use discussion, instruction and video presentation in each session. The next Bethany 101 session is Sunday, September 16 th. This session will be held in the Choir Room and begins at 10:55AM, running approximately an hour to an hour and a half. Child-care is available with an RSVP. The next Bethany 201 sessions begins on Sunday, September 23 rd and concludes on Sunday, October 21 st. Once again sessions are held in the Choir Room, beginning at 10:55AM, and running approximately an hour to an hour and a half and offer Child-care with an RSVP. Please RSVP your attendance by ing our Office Administrator, Cindy Morrison at cmorrison@bethanylutheran.org Share the Faith! Save the date for a ONE day workshop to help strengthen your faith and help prepare you to intentionally share the story of salvation on Saturday, September 22 nd from 9:00AM-12:30PM in the Youth Room. Lunch will be provided by the Taco Guy! Our theme will be announced soon. This event is totally FREE but please RSVP to Pastor Seth (smoorman@bethanyluthean.org) so we have enough food for lunch. Sanctity of Life Sunday, September 16 Some of you will recall that last January our guest preacher, Dr. Jim Lamb, took ill and couldn t join us on Life Sunday. Dr. Lamb will be with us, as he promised, this year on Sunday, September 16 th. Dr. Lamb is the Founder of Lutheran s for Life. He continues to serve even in retirement as the Life Advocate for LCMS Districts. Student Success Fund Raising Event Raise A Glass Saturday, September 29 Our annual Raise A Glass event is planned for Saturday, September 29, 2018! RAG is the annual fund raising event for our Bethany Student Success Program! Please add this date to your calendar and plan to also extend an invitation to other friends and family to celebrate and support Student Success, RAG 2018 will be held again at the Gaslamp Restaurant in Long Beach. You will be able to spend a delightful afternoon to raise your glass with other Friends of Student Success, while enjoying great food, and discovering unique and amazing treasures offered at our Silent Auction. Tickets are on sale. For information about SSP please contact Jill Moorman at jmoorman@bethanylutheran.org. See you there! Men s Retreat 2018: A five centuries-old man building a huge boat on the startling news of coming floodwaters - sounds like the makings of one remarkable story. It is! Jump in and get your feet wet with Noah: The Man, The Ark, The Flood, at the Men s retreat the weekend of September at the Luther Glen Retreat Center in Oak Glen CA. This weekend we will look at the biblical character of Noah, his life and times, and the remarkable vessel he built to escape the waters of the flood. The cost for this weekend event is $225 which includes two nights lodging (double or triple occupancy), four meals as well as snacks and program costs. A deposit of $100 will hold your spot. Space is limited! RSVP to Pastor Seth (smoorman@bethanylutheran.org) or Karl Fink (kfink@bethanylutheran.org).

3 VOLUME 13, ISSUE 1 CHIMES Worshiping Faithfully & Forming Spiritually Come for the worship, Stay for the Formation The Board of Discipleship is pleased to announce Bible Discovery offerings for fall 2018 PAGE 3 Youth Bible Discovery classes begin August 26 at 9:15AM *Preschool Bible Discovery *Kid s Bible Discovery (Kindergarten-5th Grade) *Middle School Bible Discovery (gr.6-8) *High School Bible Discovery (gr.9-12) Adult Bible Discovery options at 9:30AM on Sunday Morning: Lesson of the Day taught by John Shinnerer in the School Library (Room 105), continuing. The Lesson of the Day class seeks to place that Sunday's Gospel reading in its 1st century context, and in the context of the Gospel from which it is excerpted. It does this by glimpsing at what the text meant to its original audience and to its writer, we hope to get a better understanding of what it says to us in our time. The Old Testament book of Ezekiel taught by Michael Couey in the Choir Room (Room 130), beginning October 7th. The book of Ezekiel was written during the years of captivity in Babylon but prior to the first destruction of Jerusalem in 587 BC. The Jews, still shaken from their loss of freedom and captivity held out vain hopes that Egypt would come and fight against Babylon and free them to return Judah. The problem was a skin-deep acknowledgement of God but a gut reliance on the world to solve their earthly problems. While the first part of the book focuses on sin and judgment, it finishes with a message of hope and joy. The Lord God promises His people that He will save them with His own right hand! Find out why this book is as relevant today as it was when it was first written and discover some of the amazing prophesies that are being fulfilled in our time. Wellspring A Spiritual Formation Class for Women led by Mary Kay Esswein & Randa Pearson in the Multipurpose Room (Room 215), beginning new book October 21, after the fall Women s Retreat. Renovation of the Heart in Daily Practice: Experiments in Spiritual Transformation by Dallas Willard and Jan Johnson. Book cost is $12. Sign-up Sep 30 and Oct 7 in Friendship Square. Wellspring: Watering souls with the Word and Spirit as He conforms us to the image of Christ. Additional Study Offerings... Monday Night Men s Bible Study Fellowship Studying Psalms to Song of Solomon. Study begins September 10 in Choir Room (Room 130) meets from 6:55-8:30PM. Questions? Contact Don Baldwin at or donwbaldwin@gmail.com. Wednesday Night Studies Living Way Study of Galatians begins October 3. Evening Prayer offered 1st & 3rd Wednesdays starting in October. The Entry Point is a gathering to discuss a wide array of issues. The topic for each gathering will be shared the week before on our Bethany App, The Bethany Bullet and Chimes. The Entry Point will start in October and will happen on Wednesday evenings. Confirmation (Grades 6-8), classes taught by Kayleigh Lopez and begins Wednesday, October 10 from 6:30-8:00PM. Club 35 (Grades 3-5) offered 2nd & 4th Wednesdays of the month from 6:00-7:00PM with Becca Klemm. Starts Sept. 12th. Thursday & Saturday Morning studies will meet in other locations while Parish Lounge is under construction. Watch the Sunday bulletin for location announcements. 6:00-7:00AM Thursday Men s Bible Study...The Gospel According to Peanuts, led by Karl Fink (currently meeting) see pg 9. 9:15-11:00AM Thursday Women s Bible Study...Study of Matthew, led by Meg Velez (begins October 4) 8:00-9:30AM Men s Breakfast & Study...Study of John, led by Karl Fink (3rd Saturday of each month) see page 9. Small group studies are offered at various times in members homes. To connect with a small group, contact Karl Fink at kfink@bethanylutheran.org or Please join the Board of Evangelism in praying As Christians, we are called to pray for one another. The Board of Evangelism asks the congregation of Bethany to please pray for the following mission partners this SEPTEMBER: Happy Home Lutheran Orphanage The Lutheran School for the Deaf and Blind in India LINC - LA and LINC - International I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:3

4 PAGE 4 CHIMES VOLUME 13, ISSUE 1 Confirmation News: Informational Meeting for Students (gr.6-8) & their Parents - Wednesday, September 6:00PM *Registration Packet can be downloaded on Bethany s website. If reading this electronically, click HERE. First Day of Class - Wednesday, October 6:30PM 2019 LCMS Youth Gathering - Real Present God Reminder... A non-refundable deposit of $400 and an application are due on Sunday, October 7 th. The 2019 Gathering is July 11-16, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. All participants need to have completed their 8 th grade year by the summer of If you have any questions? Please contact Kayleigh Lopez (klopez@bethanylutheran.org). May God bless you as you begin the a new school year and as you continue in your faithful worship of our Heavenly Father! Kayleigh Lopez, DCE klopez@bethanylutheran.org Children s Ministry - Club 35 News Becca Klemm, DCE Intern bklemm@bethanylutheran.org All 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students and their families are invited to the Club 35 Kickoff Event on Wednesday, September 12 from 6:00-7:00PM in the Multipurpose Room (Room 215). Join us for a time of fellowship as we get to know each other and what is in store for Club 35 this year. Club 35 will continue to meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month from 6-7pm in the Multipurpose Room. Club 35 Dates for September: Wednesday, September 12 Wednesday, September 24 Please register your student for Club 35 by filling out the form on the Club 35 page of the Bethany website. Also fill out the Year Long Youth Ministry Permission form found on the Bethany website. If you are reading this electronically click HERE for the Club 35 webpage. Questions? Contact DCE Intern Becca Klemm (bklemm@bethanylutheran.org)

5 VOLUME 13, ISSUE 1 CHIMES PAGE 5 Bethany Youth Ministry News... Kayleigh Lopez Minister of Youth, (562) , ext. 18 *Preferred Method of Contact -*Text Messages or Call this number: (309) ; klopez@bethanylutheran.org ATTENTION: MSG & High School Youth The forms for the NEW school year are available for DOWNLOAD from Bethany s website and are on each of the youth groups webpages on our site. There are two forms: the Yearlong Youth Ministry Permission Form (Sept2018-Aug2019 needed for youth to participate in ANY youth ministry event) and the Use of Personal Automobile Form (for parents who might drive at events). Please turn in all forms to Kayleigh. Sunday, Sept. 16 High School Bible Discovery (9:15-10:30AM) *In Room 204; High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM) Sunday, Sept. 23 High School Bible Discovery (9:15-10:30AM) *In Room 204; High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM) Sunday, Sept High School Bible Discovery (9:15-10:30AM) *In Room 204; High School Youth Group - Game Night (4:00-6:00PM) *Location TBD MSG (Middle School Group 6 th - 8 th Grade) We are in FULL swing and there are many opportunities offered to the Middle School Group for Spiritual Formation & Fellowship. All information for these events can be found on the Bethany Website. Every Sunday morning starting August 26 - MSG Bible Discovery (9:15-10:30AM) in Youth Room/Hensley Square Balcony Tuesday, Sept Game Day (3:30-4:30PM) Wednesday, Sept Confirmation Orientation Meeting in the Multipurpose Room (6:00-7:00PM) Tuesday, Oct. 9 - Game Day (3:30-4:30PM) Wednesdays, Oct.10, 17, & 24 - Confirmation Class (6:30-8:00PM) Thursday, Oct MSG Lunch Bible Study (12:30-1:10PM) Friday, Oct MSG Dance (7:30-10:00PM) All information for these events are on Bethany s Website. High School Youth Group (gr. 9-12) *Sunday morning we meet for breakfast, highs & lows, and a Bible study in Room 204 or Youth Room if construction is finished. *Sunday evenings for Youth Group we will meet at Kayleigh Lopez home or Youth Room if construction is finished or an otherwise noted location. There will be a more in depth study accompanied by food, bonding, games, etc. You are welcome to join us anytime and are encouraged to bring friends. SEPTEMBER 2018: Sunday, Sept. 2 - High School Bible Discovery (9:15-10:30AM) *In Room 204; High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM) - Labor Day Weekend Sunday, Sept. 9 - High School Bible Discovery (9:15-10:30AM) *In Room 204; High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM) Join the Family Park & Pool Day (6:00-8:30PM) at Mayfair Park, Cost is $5/person or $20 max for a family. OCTOBER 2018: Sunday, Oct. 7 - High School Bible Discovery (9:15-10:30AM) *Youth Room; High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM) Sunday, Oct High School Bible Discovery (9:15-10:30AM) *Youth Room; High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM) 10:30PM) Sunday, Oct High School Bible Discovery (9:15-10:30AM) *Youth Room; High School Youth Group (4:00-6:00PM) Sunday, Oct High School Bible Discovery (9:15-10:30AM) *Youth Room; NO High School Youth Group - Come to Bethany s Oktoberfest today! *Dates & events are subject to change. You will be contacted with any of those changes. Anchor (College Age) Anchor Look for reminders of our get together s & meet up s in the weekly Sunday bulletin, texts, and social media. If you would like to receive an update via text or social media, please contact me - Kayleigh Lopez. Social Media Website: Facebook: High School - Bethany Lutheran High School Youth College - Anchor *Both pages can be found through Bethany Lutheran Church s Facebook page. Apps: Church - Bethany Lutheran Church - Long Beach School - Bethany Lutheran School - Long Beach *Both apps can be found in Googleplay or the App Store High School Youth...Other Social Media: Instagram: Bethany_hsg Twitter: Bethany_hsg For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

6 PAGE 6 CHIMES VOLUME 13, ISSUE 1 Bethany s Preschool: Tricycle Tidings Bethany Lutheran Preschool exists: Mary Wolfinbarger, Preschool Director, ext. 22 mwolfinbarger@bethanylutheran.org To provide quality Christian early childhood education in a safe, loving and caring atmosphere; daily teaching God s forgiveness and love through our Savior, Jesus Christ. We are excited to be starting a new school year on August 27 with full classrooms and a brand new playground and play area in Hensley Square. We are very thankful to our trustees, Andersen Construction, countless volunteers and the Renaissance Committee for all of their assistance and support in bringing all of this to fruition. God has been good to us and we are truly blessed at Bethany. Pictured below is our 3 year old summer class of construction workers who work for God. We have a very gifted staff, made up of loving Christian women: Jennifer DeJongh - Transitional K Teacher Vannessa Contreras Older 2 Year Old Teacher Angela Bardeleben Pre-K Teacher Kathleen Slater 2 Year Old Teacher Belinda Padias Outside Teacher Leticia Perez Spanish Teacher Kara Bowman Older 3 Year Old Teacher Mara Widmann Music Teacher Mandy Gunsolus 3 Year Old Teacher Mary Wolfinbarger - Director Alicia Lagana, Leticia Perez, Lauren Joanes, Debbie Burns, Erica Limos, Tabitha Craft Teachers Assistants Fall classes for children ages 2 through entrance to Kindergarten begin August 27. Upcoming Dates Include: August 22 at 6 p.m. Meet the Teacher Open House August 27 First day of school September 3 Preschool closed in observance of Labor Day September 5 New Parent Orientation Please contact the director, Mary Wolfinbarger, for more information on the center or to schedule an appointment for a tour, at (562) or mwolfinbarger@bethanylutheran.org. You can also visit our website at

7 VOLUME 13, ISSUE 1 CHIME S PAGE 7 Bethany Lutheran School News... *Christ-centered *Respectfully Operated *Academically Strong *Fully Accredited Dr. Mary Fink-School Principal, ext. 17 mfink@bethanylutheran.org Renaissance I am so blessed to have a front row seat to all the construction on campus this summer and to watch our Renaissance plans come to life! WOW. It is also incredibly humbling to consider the sacrifices of time, talent and treasure that have brought us to this point and will carry us into Phases II and III. Truly we are blessed to be a blessing to others! Real. Present. God. Our school theme logo might look familiar: it s the same logo as the National Youth Gathering and will serve as the logo for National Lutheran Schools Week, too. I love the idea that we are carrying a theme across a range of ministries, all connected the truth that our Heavenly Father is REAL, He is PRESENT and He is the one true GOD. The School Bell is Ready to Ring It s time for school! We are excited to begin our 73 rd year of excellent Christian education at Bethany Lutheran School! God is so good, and we are so blessed. We still have room in some grades, so if you know someone who is looking for an excellent Christian education, send them our way. Who are our dedicated servants in the dayschool this year? Kindergarten Mrs. Jeanette Dahlin Music Teachers: Dr. Carol McDaniel First Grade Mrs. Lori Lange Mr. Kevin Bowers Second Grade Miss Stefanie Hinrichs Third Grade Mrs. Chris Boerrigter EDC Director Ms. Carlota Brown Fourth Grade Ms. Kim Imes School Librarian Mrs. Georgia Price Fifth Grade Mrs. Diana Orr School Secretary Ms. Lynne Charette Middle School History Mr. Andrew Morner Admissions Director Ms. Kathy Tucker Middle School Math Miss Abby Einspahr Financial Administrator Mrs. Maraley Shaeffer Middle School English Mrs. Carrie Evans Scrip Coordinator Mrs. Carol Grudt Middle School Science Miss Alicia Arzaga Principal Dr. Mary Fink Middle School Spanish Senora Ali Wickwire Senior Pastor Rev. Kevin Kritzer Technology Coord. Ms. Cheryl Stejskal Pastor of Family Life Rev. Seth Moorman Student Success: Mrs. Connie Kritzer AD and DCE Mr. Karl Fink Mrs. Jill Moorman Minister of Music Dr. Carol McDaniel Mrs. Sarah O Conner Minister of Youth Mrs. Kayleigh Lopez Classroom Aides: Mrs. Jennifer Petay DCE Intern Miss Becca Klemm Mrs. Erika Alvarado Custodian Mr. Steven Lee THANK YOU! WE OWE A DEBT OF GRATITUDE to the Sharon Maxwell estate for continuing to fund our counseling program. Sharon was a teacher here at Bethany and we are so grateful to her family for honoring Sharon s memory in this way. We also owe a debt of gratitude to our amazing Trustees, who have worked around the clock and around the Renaissance construction to improve and repair our campus! Your partnership is a blessing! In I Thessalonians, Paul writes, Therefore encourage one another and build each other up It s our task, as the body of Christ, to support each other in our work for the Kingdom. Once again, I am asking you to encourage our teaching staff in their mission this school year. You can do this by sending them a note or an (addresses are on our website: and by holding them up in prayer. Serving the Savior with you, Dr. Mary Fink

8 PAGE 8 CHIMES VOLUME 13, ISSUE 1 Family Ministry Moment Pr. Seth Moorman-Pastor of Family Life & Youth, ext. 13 smoorman@bethanylutheran.org It s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! No, I haven t lost my mind in the heat of the summer. But it s true. I have been spending lots of time the past few weeks thinking about Christmas. Specifically, Operation Christmas Child time is upon us. But, wait? Doesn t that happen in November? Well, yes, and no. November is the typical time you see Operation Christmas Child boxes being returned filled with all sorts of things that will be distributed across the world. But did you know that the ministry of Operation Christmas Child goes on all year. Each box of love sent across the globe brings more than just Joy and excitement at Christmas. Each box represents an opportunity to tell the story of Jesus and to change the eternal reality of the recipient. You see, when the boxes are delivered they go to churches and ministry partners around the world who hold events where the community is invited. All of the children who receive a box also hear the story of Jesus and are invited back to learn more. Many in the community take up the offer and return to enroll in a discipleship program. Often times at the end of the program, participants want others to experience the life changing love of Jesus so they invite others and discipleship multiplies. By simply sending a box, the life of another could be changed forever. An Operation Christmas Child Box is just the beginning of lifelong discipleship around the world. With each box the message of Jesus is spread through the world. Want to know how you can participate and engage with Operation Christmas Child (OCC) this year and beyond? Here are some way s: Join us on Sunday, September 30 th from 1:30 to 3:30 PM for the Regional Operation Christmas Child Kick Off Event at Bethany. Come and hear Christian recording artist Jana Ayala who will lead us in song and share the impact of and OCC trip to Mexico. Yves Dushime returns to Bethany to share his story of receiving a shoebox in Togo, Africa and the impact of Evangelism, Discipleship and Multiplication. All guests will be invited to see how OCC is organized and the yearlong impact that OCC has around the world. You can also find out more about what to pack in a box for greatest impact. This Fall Bethany will be hosting a packing party for OCC. It is our goal to pack 500 boxes at Bethany alone and we need your help to gather supplies. In the months to come we will be focusing on different areas for collection. In August we will focus on collecting School and Art Supplies. This includes- pencils, sharpeners, erasers, color pencils, pens, markers, crayons, rulers, scissors, protractors, calculators, notebook paper, note pads, small journals. Wire -bound one subject notebooks are o.k. but they would fit better in the shoebox if a volunteer would cut them in two, using a band saw or some other heavy duty electric saw. In September we will focus on collecting Hygiene Products and Accessories. This includes- soap, wash cloth, toothbrush, combs, hair brushes, bandages, nail clipper and file, compact mirror, bracelets, hair accessories (barrettes, clips, headbands, etc.), change purses, non-padded tote bags, sunglasses hats, socks, bandanas, beanies, t-shirts (boys/ girls), sandals, flip-flops (boys/girls) In October we will focus on collecting Toys and Tools. This includes- soccer ball (deflated) & pump; yo-yo, jump rope, small trucks/cars, balls, spinning tops, dolls, small musical instrument - (flute, harmonica), marbles, dominoes, small stuffed animals (that can fit in a shoebox), jacks/ball, slinky, kaleidoscopes, airplane gliders, cards, hackie sack; tapemeasure, small hammer, screwdriver, flashlight/batteries, small level, fishing line/hooks; chisels, sewing kits/ fabric, etc. In November we will focus on collecting Monetary Donations to cover the $9/per box cost of shipping and transport. Bring your donations to Bethany. We will have collection bins in the back of the church and in the school office. Of course any donation at any time will be gladly accepted. Other ways for you to participate with OCC: Come to a packing party at Orange Lutheran High School on October 14 th from noon to 3:00 PM to pack 3,000 shoeboxes that will be delivered to restricted/special access countries. All items for packing will be provided. This is open to the community and registration is not required. Invite your friends to hear Yves Dushime story again as he leads chapel at Bethany Lutheran school on Wednesday, October 31 st at 9:00 AM. Sign up to work in the OCC processing center in Fullerton. The processing center is open between November 20 th and the second week of December. Dates can be requested but not guaranteed. All volunteers must be at least 14 years old. If you are interested in this please contact Kahana Smith (faithksmith911@gmail.com). Pack your own box(s) and bring them to the Bethany Packing Party (date and time TBD). Help with our community collection at Bethany the week of November 12 th.

9 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1 DCE Care Ministry News CHIMES PAGE 9 Karl Fink-DCE, ext. 19 kfink@bethanylutheran.org Men's Bible Study: This study meets from 6:00-7:00AM Thursdays in the GYM. *If you need to leave earlier for work, no problem! We re always looking for new men to join us, so as your schedule allows consider meeting with us as we study God s Good Word, fellowship, & pray together. We are currently in the book, The Gospel According to Peanuts which is an easy read and you can jump in with us at any point! Men s Breakfast/Bible Study: I continue to invite all men of the Congregation to our Saturday morning study and prayer breakfast on Saturday, September 15, 8:00 9:30AM. We meet in the GYM to enjoy a tasty breakfast, do an hour long study (currently in the Gospel of John), and spend some time in prayer as a group. Thanks for your continued prayers and your participation! I have study guides available, and you can come and jump right in with us! GriefShare Class Update: Our GriefShare classes started on August 26th. We are meeting on Sunday Afternoons, starting at 1:00PM in the Multipurpose Room, #215 in the school. If you know of anyone who is experiencing grief of any kind, please invite them to these classes. It is not too late to join us! If you have any questions regarding the GriefShare program, please contact me in my office or via . May God continue to hold you during these times of grief. Community Food Bank Thanks: Thanks to all of you who have made monetary donations to our Food Bank! We are blessed to be able to share with those who are in need because of your generosity. As able, please continue this spirit of generosity during the coming year, as we do have many people who are in need! God bless you all! Monetary donations are welcome anytime in the box located in the church narthex. Brianna Esswein Memorial Golf Tourney: It is time to SAVE THE DATE for our tourney in the Spring! We plan to golf tentatively on Friday afternoon, March 22, at Lakewood Country Club. Our shot-gun start will be at 1:00PM with a dinner and raffle to follow. Should you have any questions at this point, please let me know. As always, thanks for your support of this event! Kindly get this on your calendars NOW so we can fill the course! Please watch weekly Chimes and the monthly October Chimes for monies raised in this year s event! In Christ, Karl Fink Director of Christian Education Family Park & Pool Day Our annual Family Park and Pool day will take place on Sunday, September 9 th from 6:00-8:30 PM at Mayfair Park. We will start with a picnic in the park and end the evening in the pool with fun and games. Cost is $5 per person ($20 Max per family). RSVP today with Pr. Seth Moorman smoorman@bethanylutheran.org Friendship SquareD On any given Sunday, Friendship Square is a place people connect with one another. It goes without saying that none of us would want someone to feel lonely and left out in Friendship Square! Thus Bethany is developing a Friendship SquareD Squad. Every Sunday from 9:00-9:30AM and again from 10:30-10:55AM, a pair of Friendship SquareD Squad members will walk the square and area in front of the Narthex to simply connect with fold they don t know and haven t met. These might be long time Bethany members, they might be guests who through such a connection are moved to become part of the Bethany family, they might even be angels entertained by such hospitality (Hebrews 13:2). Qualifications: A desire to make sure those who come to Bethany s campus know the Friendship of the Lord Jesus, and are engaged by the friendliness of His family here at Bethany. No experience necessary, only a willingness to serve for 30 minutes somewhere between once a month and once a quarter. We will explain and rain so you re fully prepared! To become a part of such a team simply send Pastor Seth (smoorman@bethanylutheran.org) or Pastor Kevin (kkritzer@bethanylutheran.org) an .

10 PAGE 10 CHIMES VOLUME 13, ISSUE 1 Bethany Lutheran Music Academy: The Music Academy was established in 1990 to provide extra-curricular music instruction to all children associated with Bethany Lutheran Church and School. This is an after school program with instruction taking place on the Bethany campus, Monday - Friday between 3:15 and 6:00PM. We have Christian instructors who are professionals in their field. There are twelve weekly lessons scheduled each semester; fall semester begins the week of September 17 th. Tuition: $275 plus $25 annual registration fee. Students may select from the following instruments: piano (2 nd grade and up), violin (2 nd grade and up), and trumpet (4 th and up). Brochures and enrollment forms may be picked up in the school or church offices; you may also go online to: to download your enrollment form. Enrollment is now open through Friday, September 7. Forms are due no later than Friday, September 7. Questions? Contact Academy Administrator, Mara Widmann at mwidmann@bethanylutheran.org or ext. 55. Additional News & Notes: October Newsletter Deadline: your article to Aimee Coleman acoleman@bethanylutheran.org. The deadline is Friday, September 14th. Church Offices Closed: Monday, September 3 (Labor Day) Electronic Giving: By giving electronically, the amount you designate will be withdrawn automatically from your checking or savings account on the date(s) you specify. You can ensure that Bethany gets your contribution on a regular basis, even when you're on vacation. To sign up, go to click on "Giving" on the top right side of the page. Then follow the easy prompts. Women s Retreat Tools for the Soul is planned for October at Aldersgate Retreat Center in Pacific Palisades. Cost will be $250 per person, which includes two nights and 4 meals. A $40 check (payable to Bethany Lutheran Church) will save you a spot. Sign-ups will be in Friendship Square on Sunday, August 19 and August 26. We have room for 44 ladies this year. We d love to have you join us! Lawn Crew Needs Your HELP! Save the Date - Sunday, October 28th! Join us on Sunday, October 28th for a traditional Oktoberfest event. Activities include our pumpkin patch carnival games, a traditional German feast with all the trimmings, live entertainment, fun and fellowship with the Bethany family. More details will be coming soon. You won t want to miss this FUN Fall Family Event. Looking for a way to use your time and talents to serve the Lord? If so, Bethany s Lawn Crew is in DESPARATE NEED! If you would like to help keep the Lord s house looking nice, please contact the church office at or Cindy Morrison at cmorrison@bethanylutheran.org.

11 VOLUME 13 ISSUE 1 CHIMES PAGE 11 Sunday morning Lectors NEEDED! Do you like to read? Do you love worship and the House of the Lord? Have you ever been told you have a nice, strong or even loud voice? Bethany Lectors serve the body as they read the Word of the Lord in worship. If you d like to join the Lector team please Pastor Kevin kkritzer@bethanylutheran.org SCRIP - An Easy Way to Support Bethany s Renaissance: In the past we have asked that everyone Shop with Scrip, at one store or restaurant they go to frequently, to support a Bethany ministry. The Bethany members that use Scrip are a blessing to the ministry they support. If you do not purchase Scrip/Gift Cards to reduce tuition for a Bethany Lutheran student, please consider earning funds for our Renaissance by using Scrip for one of your regular stops. Our Scrip/Gift Card company is currently offering increased rebates (discounts) on some brands. Examples of some of the rebates are: Edwards Theaters 18%, Chili s 19%, Gap/Old Navy 20%, Bath & Body Works 17%, Claim Jumper 12%, Home Depot 7%, Chipotle 12%, Home Goods 9%, and Panera Bread 10%. These large rebates could provide a substantial amount of money for our Renaissance when you pay with Scrip instead of cash or credit card! Please stop at the Scrip table if you have any questions about using Scrip/Gift Cards Church Officers and Board Church Council **Board Chairperson President: Jeremy O Conner *Vice-Chairperson Vice-President: Joey Cerulle Council Secretary: Bob Lange Treasurer: Rick Hoting Historian: Felix Rivera Board of Elders Board of Trustees Board of Youth Board of Admin./Finance Pat Gagan** Wayne Choate** Andrew Andersen** Teresa Ivins** Jonathan Widmann* Phil Lopez* Laura Angel Madeline Smith (secretary) Matt Bordoni (secretary) Ryan Bowman Angela Castlen Emily Chartier Morgan Angle Mike Carlson Geoff Delahanty Joyce Klenner Drew Bardeleben Richard Dana Nicci DeLuca Ed Lohr Craig Breit Gerrit DeJongh Eric Ebacher Robert Radtke Marty Callow Neal Hasty Abby Einspahr Matt Ruiz Jim Friedrichs Ben Lopez Clayton Kritzer Rick Smith Mark Hansen Clark Pearson Austin Ruiz Peter Velez Mark Hennings David Rathke Jonathan Ludwig Felix Rivera Community Impact Brian McGrath Mike Yocam Board of Discipleship Randa Pearson** Frank McNeel Sam Gierhan (Honorary) Bob Newell** Ted Pearson Ron Miner Nola Seaman** Dan Esswein Doug Morlok Marlene Mooney (secretary) Mary Kay Esswein David Porte Mike Bessolo Alice Hansen Jim Smith Board of Schools Pam Bessolo Mark Hansen Ron Svarc Kent Ryskamp** Bill Conley Marilyn Riordan Jim Swick Carrie Evans* Linda Couey Paul Evans John Utke Cindy Morlok (secretary) Mike Couey Lynda Kernohan Greg Goebel Dan Esswein Katie Musick Kevin Kabacinski Chris Ford Board of Evangelism Sue Swick Earl Lippold Endowment Committee Susan Breit** Charlene Mitchell Mike Riordan** Louana Dean (secretary) Norma Morris Tracey Hunter Scott Andersen Angie Reilly Claude Potter Pamela Brehm Josh Silverman Robert Radtke Celena McDermott Renee Svarc Rick Smith Larry Miller Jerry Stock

12 BETHANY LUTHERAN CHU RCH 4644 Clark Ave. Long Beach, CA Phone: NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Long Beach, CA Permit No. 603 FAX: RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Dated Material Please Expedite Mailing Address Line 1 Mailing Address Line 2 Mailing Address Line 3 Mailing Address Line 4 Mailing Address Line 5 We are on the WEB! Inside this Issue... Inside this Issue: Membership at Bethany, p.2 Share the Faith, p.2 Youth Ministry Info, p.4-5 Operation Christmas Child, p.8 +So much more!! *Please see the September Calendar for important dates/times. Join us at Worship! Sunday: 8AM, 9:30AM, & 10:55AM *An updated weekly calendar is printed in each Sunday bulletin! SEPTEMBER 2018