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office phone 715-832-9953 ext. 3 email [email protected] or in emergency by cell phone 715-829-1247
——————————————————————————————— Congregation Chairman: Gary Hansen 715-831-1917 or [email protected]
Office: 715-832-9953 or [email protected] Website: blcaltoona.org Little Star Daycare: Krystina Schumacher, Director 715-832-1513 or [email protected] Website: www.altoonalittlestar.com Confidential Prayer Chain: Sharon Stelter 715-832-3633
SUNDAY MORNING SERVICE AT 10:00 AM
Holy Communion is celebrated 1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays
Sunday School 8:45 - 9:45 am Adult Bible Study 9:00 - 9:45 am
Vision Statement: Loved and forgiven by a gracious Triune God, we become a community of love that inspires worship, compassion, service,
prayer and spiritual growth in Christ — within these walls and beyond.
March 2020
Volume XVI - Issue 3
Bethlehem
Lutheran Church 2245 Hayden Avenue
Altoona, WI 54720
SOARING
TO NEW HEIGHTS
SOARING Bethlehem See Page 5 of this document for the Calendar
From the Pastor “Come and see.” Those three simple words changed everything. In the first chapter of John’s Gospel, Jesus has been gathering His group of apostles, inviting Andrew and Peter and Philip to follow Him.
Philip, in turn, found his friend Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote – Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph” (John 1:45).
Nathanael was skeptical. He had his doubts. Nazareth was a small farming community. In Jesus’ day, Nazareth had maybe 150 residents … tops.
The really popular place was Sepphoris, a 30- minute walk away. Sepphoris was the onetime capital of Herod Antipas. Sepphoris was affluent and had all the cultural trappings of a typical Roman city – shopping, a theater, and a population closer to 20,000. It was called “The Jewel of Galilee.”
Nazareth was relatively insignificant. Nazareth was the last place anyone would look for a Messiah. So Nathanael understandably replied to Philip, “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Philip didn’t argue the point. He didn’t try to persuade Nathanael. He didn’t debate theology. He
didn’t list Jesus’ credentials, or talk about how many other people were already following Jesus. He simply said, “Come and see.” His three simple words changed the course of Nathanael’s life. His three simple words also
affected the course of countless others as Nathanael, in turn, is said to have taken the good news of Jesus to northern India. Continued on page 2
Rev. Tim Stein, Pastor
-7- -2-
Reaching beyond our walls . . . Our place in the Community
Altoona Food Pantry will be Thursday, March 26
th
from 4:30 - 6:30 pm The Pantry is now located at
701 Seventh St. West, Altoona, WI
Contact Message Phone # is 715-255-0783 Sponsored by The Altoona Compassion Coalition and
is for anyone in the Altoona School District. (no I.D. or proof of need required)
‹‹‹ 2 CAN SUNDAY is March 1st ››› Bring non-perishable food to stock our small food
pantry for Bethlehem members or Little Star Daycare
families. Watch for bags that will be set up at a
welcome station by the Little Star Daycare
entrance. If you have a need or know of anyone
who is in need of food please feel free to use the
pantry or take the prepared bags.
Christian Growth & Fellowship . . .
Continued from page 1
Can evangelism really be that simple – in the first century, as well as the 21st century? Is it really as easy as “Come and see”?
Maybe you’re already comfortable talking with others about your faith. Maybe it’s no big deal to invite your friends or your co-workers or your neighbors to check out your church one Sunday.
But if you’re like most people, the thought makes you break out in a cold sweat. As we move closer to Good Friday and Easter Sunday – a prime opportunity to reach out to those
who are looking to connect with God – consider how you might extend a Philip-style invitation this year.
Don’t get wrapped up in promoting our worship services. Don’t focus on the efforts to spruce up the building. Don’t talk about the theological differences between Bethlehem and any other church.
Those are all good things. But they’re not the most important thing. The most important thing is we have an amazing Savior. We follow a Lord who lifts people up,
breaks the power of sin, and changes lives. Jesus is the only One worth following. Jesus is the only One who saves. Jesus is the only One who will make an eternal difference in your life.
But don’t take my word for it. Come and see for yourself. In Christ, Pastor Tim Stein
Continued from page 1
THE RASMUSSEN SCHOLARSHIP is available to all high school seniors graduating this spring, especially those students who will be attending UW-Eau Claire, UW-River Falls or Chippewa Valley Technical College. There are some requirements to the qualifications, so if you are considering any of the schools listed (or any others), please don't hesitate to contact Karen Keehn for more information. The applications are available from Karen or the church office. You may also get in touch with Karen at 715-835-4695 or [email protected].
Any inquiries are welcome.
Register NOW for our annual Walk for Hunger Nyre You!
Join us on Saturday, May 2nd at 10 a.m. to participate in a ½ or 2 mile walk, Silent Auction, Bake Sale, Kids area, food, music and fun!
This will be the 8th year for the fundraiser and with participation from the Altoona School District, local police and fire departments and families and friends of the program. You can register by picking up a form/flyers in the fellowship hall on the south wall or NEW THIS YEAR register on Eventbrite. Search Annual Walk for Hunger Nyre You at www.eventbrite.com
Not a walker? That’s ok! We are now accepting donations for the silent auction, sign up to donate baked goods, volunteer on site the day of or help set up on May 1st. Any donation or time given is greatly appreciated. Help us promote this event by picking up a flyer to share with your friends, family and co-workers. Silent Auction items can be a themed basket, large or small item, service, gift cards, etc. Please drop your donations off in the church office. Any questions can be directed to Jennie Childs at 715-829-7024 or email to [email protected]
Sunday Morning Coffee Servers are always
needed. The schedule is on the counter in the kitchen to make the coffee and provide treats. Contact LeAnne Hohman if you have questions or if you would like to provide the goodies but not do the actual serving on Sunday, 715-456-7572.
Tuesday Morning Prayer Group
meets at 10:00 am in the Prayer Room. Everyone is welcome to join us! Contact Lois Schnorr 715-834-4071 for details.
Informational Gatherings offered by Thrivent —
Will Your Taxes Affect Your Retirement? Strategies to help you work toward a lower tax bracket in retirement. Thurs. March 19, 2020
It’s All About the When. For many, Social Security is a vital income source. Thurs. April 23, 2020 To register for either program call Sharah Siefkes at 608-304-6518 |Registration & refreshments at 5:30 pm | program at 6:00 pm | Hanger 54 (3800 Starr Ave) Eau Claire WI.
Fellowship & Worship in Lent Join us for dinner at 5:00 pm Wednesday evenings,
followed by worship at 6:30 pm. The Bethlehem Ministry Teams are asking for help in
preparing and serving the meals that will be offered before midweek worship services in Lent. If you are willing to share your time or culinary skills – or if you would simply like to donate an item for a meal – please sign up on the bulletin board in the fellowship hall.
This year’s sermon theme for Lent will be “Shaped by the Cross,” based on a book by Ken Gire. Using the story of how Michelangelo created his famous sculpture, the Pietá, we will consider the depth of the sacrifice of Christ and how taking up our cross and following Jesus is a costly endeavor for us too.
Would you rather have March
come in like a Lamb or a Lion?
-6- -3-
“Train a Child Up in the Way He Should Go . . .”
Little Star Daycare News
We are excited to enter March as
February ended a little different this
year than it did last year! There were no
record breaking snowfalls
or ridiculously cold weather!
This month we will be busy
preparing for our annual book
fair, which will be taking place
during the week of March 30th-April 3rd and
then on Sunday, April 5th.
St. Patrick's Day is always a fun time
here at Little Star. We set traps and
try to catch those sneaky leprechauns!
They always seem to get away from us,
but we will continue trying!
Have a fantastic March and keep us in your
prayers as we hopefully get the construction
process started on both the parsonage and
downstairs daycare! 2020 is a year of changes
and we are very ready for it!
Krystina Schumacher, Administrator/Director
Visit our website at www.altoonalittlestar.com
SUBMISSION DEADLINES Sunday Bulletin -
EACH THURSDAY BY 8:00 AM Newsletter - THE 20TH OF EACH MONTH
YOUR COOPERATION IS NECESSARY AND VERY APPRECIATED!
Use of the Bethlehem Fellowship Hall When you or your group wish to use the fellowship hall please schedule this through Charleen in the church office 715.832.9953 ext 2; Mon-Fri 8:30 am -12:30 pm (or leave a voice mail); by email to [email protected]; or leave a note on her desk with a phone number or some way to reach you.
Bethlehem Lutheran - Our Church
CONFIRMATION for 7th & 8thgraders Wednesdays from 5:30 - 6:30 pm
8th Grade Student & Parent meeting following the worship service on
Sunday, March 8th. This is a required meeting as we will be discussing and making plans
for Confirmation Day.
Contacts are: Mark Jordan 715-831-8519 (home) or 715-579-3483 (cell) or [email protected] Gary & Pam Hansen 715-831-1917 / [email protected] Pastor Tim 715-832-9953 ext 3 / [email protected]
The Fellowship Hall has been booked for use on these dates in March 2020:
March 9 - Girl Scout Troop Meeting 6-8:30 pm March 23 - Girl Scout Troop Meeting 6-8:30 pm Cassie Johnson, Girl Scout Troop leader
See above notice for details on reserving the fellowship hall. Please be sure to make proper contact so your event date is recorded.
The deadline for directing Thrivent Choice Dollars accrued in 2019 is March 31, 2020. To direct Choice Dollars, call 800-847-4836
and say “Thrivent Choice.”
SUNDAY SCHOOL NEWS
Class time is from 8:45 - 9:45 am
for children ages 3 yrs - high school.
——————————————————————————————————————————————
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE PARADE OF PALMS ON
PALM SUNDAY - APRIL 5TH
Contact Gary or Pam Hansen about Sunday School at 715-831-1917 or [email protected]
Going to Camp Luther this summer?
Remember Bethlehem offers Scholarships for that!
Check in the office; there is a file on the credenza.
Monthly Meeting Schedule . . .
Praise Team Practice at 6:30 pm Thursdays, March 5th, 19th & 26th
Daycare Ministry Team Meeting Thursday, March 12th at 4:00 am
Daycare Staff In-Service Tuesday March 3rd 5:30-7:30 pm
in the fellowship hall
Council Meeting
Christian Education Ministry Team & Youth Ministry Team Meeting
Sunday, March, 1stat 11:00 am after worship — to discuss VBS
Mark your calendar now if you are involved in these!
Tues., March 10th
at 6:oo pm
Elders Meeting
UPDATE FROM THE DÉCOR TEAM
Thank you so much for the great response and donations toward our projects to update the upper level of the church. To date we have received over $3,100.00! We have ordered and received the table and chairs for the seating area in the library, donations for 10 round dining tables for the fellowship hall and other donations for décor, signature wall, coffee station and more.
You may have noticed new cellular shades in the hallway and fellowship hall. Which have been covered by insurance due to the previous shades having cords hanging down which were a hazard to our little daycare children. We have them for the nursery and will install them at a later date. We are patiently waiting on our insurance company to settle on the sewer backup so Little Star Daycare can begin the repair process. Until the little ones are back down in the center we will hold off with any painting, carpeting or decor projects. Thank you again for your outpouring of generosity. There are still some envelopes on the board by the office should you want to make a donation.
“Things I Never Knew About the Bible”
Join us for Sunday morning Bible study from 9-9:45 am in the Fellowship Hall. If
you’re dropping off your children for Sunday school, or if you’d like to spend
some extra time in God’s Word before worship, we hope you’ll stop by and
check it out! Last year Pastor Tim had the opportunity to spend two weeks in
Israel, and he’ll share some of his insights and teachings (and photos!) from the
Holy Land. Grab a cup of coffee, bring your Bible, and join us as we take a fresh
look at some familiar Bible stories in their original context.
-4-
OFFICERS and MINISTRY TEAM LEADERS
Discipleship: vacant at this time Fellowship: LeAnne Hohman 715-456-7572 Human Care / Outreach: Anna Boyea 715-832-2610 Missions: Krystina Schumacher 715-797-1555 Stewardship: Elaine Emberson 715-834-8714 Worship: Debbie Gilles 715-877-2343 Linda Wagner 715-829-1983 Youth (Youth Groups & VBS): Teri Johnson 715-514-9055
President: Gary Hansen 715-831-1917 Vice President: Mark Jordan 715-831-8519 Treasurer: Heidi Ender 715-833-2074 Financial Secretary: Carole Licht 715-833-1726 Recording Secretary: Diane Bierbrauer Buildings & Grounds: Mike Smith 715-514-2110 Christian Ed (SS & Confirmation): Pam Hansen 715-831-1917 Daycare: Angie Burrows 715-491-1312
The Elders of Bethlehem Lutheran:
Dennis Dawson 715-834-1113 [email protected]
Jeff Gilles 715-877-2343 [email protected]
Gary Hansen 715-831-1917 [email protected]
Mike Smith 715-514-2110 [email protected]
Roy Borseth 715-833-9651 [email protected]
Feel free to contact any of the Elders at any time with concerns or suggestions.
Serving the Lord with Gladness . . . How Are You Being Called?
March Worship Assistants Sunday Services 10:00 am / Wed. Lenten Services 6:30 pm
-5-
Prayer Tree is now located in the Prayer Room
You are invited to leave any prayer
requests you may have on the Prayer Tree. These tags will be picked up by the Prayer
Group on Tuesday mornings and your
request will be included in their prayers.
BETHLEHEM’S HOME BOUND & SHUT IN MEMBERS
Joanne Christ - River Pines Altoona 206 N. Willson Dr., #A316, Altoona WI 54720
Eunice “Patty” Glover - East Ridge Estates 3504 Hoover Ave. # 313, Altoona WI 54720
Susan Gust - 3802 Damon St. Apt. 132, Eau Claire WI 54701
Earl & Julie Hemenway - 2214 Peters Dr. Apt. 129 Eau Claire WI 54701
Fred Howard - WI Veterans Home 2175 E. Park Ave. D109, Chippewa Falls WI 54729
Margaret Johnson - Dove Healthcare - Osseo 51017 Ridgeview Rd, Osseo WI 54758
Bev Nequette - Milestone Senior Living 5512 Renee Dr. Room 112, Eau Claire WI 54703
Alice Steuding - Care Partners 3325 Birch St. #19, Eau Claire WI 54703
Arlene Vance - East Ridge Estates 3504 Hoover Ave. #109, Altoona WI 54720
Barb Zank - 300 William St. Apt. 108, Eau Claire WI 54703
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” ~ Matthew 7:12
Our Bethlehem Family - The People
“Like & Follow” us on Facebook!
• Bethlehem Lutheran Church • Little Star Daycare • Feed a Child Nyre You
One more way you can stay “in touch”.
BLC Church Council Minutes are posted on the bulletin board by
the office. There will be several copies available if
you wish to take one.
To volunteer as a READER or GREETER contact Carole Licht at [email protected] and she will include you in the schedule. If you are interested in running the PROJECTOR contact Noah Jordan or the church office.
Using a Scrip card is just like using a gift card, but it earns money for BLC & our youth!
Scrip cards are ordered on 1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays and are available for pick up the next week. Festival Foods, Kwik Trip, Mega Holiday, Altoona Family Restaurant and Woodman’s are available each week without pre-ordering. A large variety of merchants offer Scrip as an option when purchasing their goods and services. Please take a look at the list or keep it in mind for spring birthday & graduation gifts or grocery purchases for your confirmation & graduation party food!
Happy Birthday
6 Jeff Gilles, Craig Oas 7 Allisyn Bresina 8 Alyssa Roth, Rosalie Schreiber 9 Becca Roth 10 Nathan Oberholtzer 12 Kathi Hohman 15 Tevin Hulett-Simpson, Mark Olson 18 Olivia Oberholtzer, Lori Olson 22 Donna Schmidt 24 Roger Bauer, Bev Nequette 26 Jean Simpson 31 Julie Hemenway, Tim Kaiser, Jasmeen Moore, Beverly Varley
Happy Anniversary 13 Dennis & Joan Voigt 14 Gilbert & Donna Ganther
If we missed your birthday or anniversary please contact the church office so we can add it to our records.
Altar Flowers The yearly sign-up sheet for flowers is on the bulletin board next to the church office.
Altar Guild - We are looking for new members. Our main responsibilities are setting up communion, the altar paraments and banners. Contact Phyllis Pecor at 715-271-3804 if you are interested or curious.
March Altar Guild server is Lana Partlow.
Personal phone numbers & email addresses have been removed from the bulletins & newsletters that are shared online to protect our members from scams & fraud. Contact the church or daycare for detailed or contact information.
Date Elder Ushers Acolyte Greeter(s) Reader Projector
Sunday 1 Mike Smith Randy Wollmer Mason Smith
Alex Wollmer
Marlene Bredesen
Mark Jordan
Nathan Hansen
Wed 4 Dennis Dawson Aiden Klatt Rebecca Roth
Greg & Sherry Schantz
Sherry Schantz
Kolton Burrows
Sunday 8 Dennis Dawson Fred Bartz Tim Ender
Keegan Naser
Louise Nyre
Hillarie Roth
Adam Jordan
Wed 11 Mike Smith Randy Wollmer Mason Smith
Alex Wollmer
Beverly Varley
Hillarie Roth
Nathan Hansen
Sunday 15 Roy Borseth Ken Simpson Isabella Bauer
Ken & Jean Simpson
Cheri Borseth
Kolton Burrows
Wed 18 Gary Hansen Mark Jordan Luke Hansen
Keegan Naser
Cletus & Carole Licht
Carole Licht
Adam Jordan
Sunday 22 Gary Hansen Mark Jordan Luke Hansen
Rebecca Roth
Greg & Sherry Schantz
Sherry Schantz
Nathan Hansen
Wed 25 Jeff Gilles Randy Wollmer Mark Jordan
Alex Wollmer
Jeff & Debbie Gilles
Debbie Gilles
Kolton Burrows
Sunday 29 Jeff Gilles Fred Bartz Tim Ender
Keegan Naser
Gib & Donna Ganther
Jennie Childs
Adam Jordan
-4-
OFFICERS and MINISTRY TEAM LEADERS
Discipleship: vacant at this time Fellowship: LeAnne Hohman 715-456-7572 Human Care / Outreach: Anna Boyea 715-832-2610 Missions: Krystina Schumacher 715-797-1555 Stewardship: Elaine Emberson 715-834-8714 Worship: Debbie Gilles 715-877-2343 Linda Wagner 715-829-1983 Youth (Youth Groups & VBS): Teri Johnson 715-514-9055
President: Gary Hansen 715-831-1917 Vice President: Mark Jordan 715-831-8519 Treasurer: Heidi Ender 715-833-2074 Financial Secretary: Carole Licht 715-833-1726 Recording Secretary: Diane Bierbrauer Buildings & Grounds: Mike Smith 715-514-2110 Christian Ed (SS & Confirmation): Pam Hansen 715-831-1917 Daycare: Angie Burrows 715-491-1312
The Elders of Bethlehem Lutheran:
Dennis Dawson 715-834-1113 [email protected]
Jeff Gilles 715-877-2343 [email protected]
Gary Hansen 715-831-1917 [email protected]
Mike Smith 715-514-2110 [email protected]
Roy Borseth 715-833-9651 [email protected]
Feel free to contact any of the Elders at any time with concerns or suggestions.
Serving the Lord with Gladness . . . How Are You Being Called?
March Worship Assistants Sunday Services 10:00 am / Wed. Lenten Services 6:30 pm
-5-
Prayer Tree is now located in the Prayer Room
You are invited to leave any prayer
requests you may have on the Prayer Tree. These tags will be picked up by the Prayer
Group on Tuesday mornings and your
request will be included in their prayers.
BETHLEHEM’S HOME BOUND & SHUT IN MEMBERS
Joanne Christ - River Pines Altoona 206 N. Willson Dr., #A316, Altoona WI 54720
Eunice “Patty” Glover - East Ridge Estates 3504 Hoover Ave. # 313, Altoona WI 54720
Susan Gust - 3802 Damon St. Apt. 132, Eau Claire WI 54701
Earl & Julie Hemenway - 2214 Peters Dr. Apt. 129 Eau Claire WI 54701
Fred Howard - WI Veterans Home 2175 E. Park Ave. D109, Chippewa Falls WI 54729
Margaret Johnson - Dove Healthcare - Osseo 51017 Ridgeview Rd, Osseo WI 54758
Bev Nequette - Milestone Senior Living 5512 Renee Dr. Room 112, Eau Claire WI 54703
Alice Steuding - Care Partners 3325 Birch St. #19, Eau Claire WI 54703
Arlene Vance - East Ridge Estates 3504 Hoover Ave. #109, Altoona WI 54720
Barb Zank - 300 William St. Apt. 108, Eau Claire WI 54703
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” ~ Matthew 7:12
Our Bethlehem Family - The People
“Like & Follow” us on Facebook!
• Bethlehem Lutheran Church • Little Star Daycare • Feed a Child Nyre You
One more way you can stay “in touch”.
BLC Church Council Minutes are posted on the bulletin board by
the office. There will be several copies available if
you wish to take one.
To volunteer as a READER or GREETER contact Carole Licht at [email protected] and she will include you in the schedule. If you are interested in running the PROJECTOR contact Noah Jordan or the church office.
Using a Scrip card is just like using a gift card, but it earns money for BLC & our youth!
Scrip cards are ordered on 1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays and are available for pick up the next week. Festival Foods, Kwik Trip, Mega Holiday, Altoona Family Restaurant and Woodman’s are available each week without pre-ordering. A large variety of merchants offer Scrip as an option when purchasing their goods and services. Please take a look at the list or keep it in mind for spring birthday & graduation gifts or grocery purchases for your confirmation & graduation party food!
Happy Birthday
6 Jeff Gilles, Craig Oas 7 Allisyn Bresina 8 Alyssa Roth, Rosalie Schreiber 9 Becca Roth 10 Nathan Oberholtzer 12 Kathi Hohman 15 Tevin Hulett-Simpson, Mark Olson 18 Olivia Oberholtzer, Lori Olson 22 Donna Schmidt 24 Roger Bauer, Bev Nequette 26 Jean Simpson 31 Julie Hemenway, Tim Kaiser, Jasmeen Moore, Beverly Varley
Happy Anniversary 13 Dennis & Joan Voigt 14 Gilbert & Donna Ganther
If we missed your birthday or anniversary please contact the church office so we can add it to our records.
Altar Flowers The yearly sign-up sheet for flowers is on the bulletin board next to the church office.
Altar Guild - We are looking for new members. Our main responsibilities are setting up communion, the altar paraments and banners. Contact Phyllis Pecor at 715-271-3804 if you are interested or curious.
March Altar Guild server is Lana Partlow.
Personal phone numbers & email addresses have been removed from the bulletins & newsletters that are shared online to protect our members from scams & fraud. Contact the church or daycare for detailed or contact information.
Date Elder Ushers Acolyte Greeter(s) Reader Projector
Sunday 1 Mike Smith Randy Wollmer Mason Smith
Alex Wollmer
Marlene Bredesen
Mark Jordan
Nathan Hansen
Wed 4 Dennis Dawson Aiden Klatt Rebecca Roth
Greg & Sherry Schantz
Sherry Schantz
Kolton Burrows
Sunday 8 Dennis Dawson Fred Bartz Tim Ender
Keegan Naser
Louise Nyre
Hillarie Roth
Adam Jordan
Wed 11 Mike Smith Randy Wollmer Mason Smith
Alex Wollmer
Beverly Varley
Hillarie Roth
Nathan Hansen
Sunday 15 Roy Borseth Ken Simpson Isabella Bauer
Ken & Jean Simpson
Cheri Borseth
Kolton Burrows
Wed 18 Gary Hansen Mark Jordan Luke Hansen
Keegan Naser
Cletus & Carole Licht
Carole Licht
Adam Jordan
Sunday 22 Gary Hansen Mark Jordan Luke Hansen
Rebecca Roth
Greg & Sherry Schantz
Sherry Schantz
Nathan Hansen
Wed 25 Jeff Gilles Randy Wollmer Mark Jordan
Alex Wollmer
Jeff & Debbie Gilles
Debbie Gilles
Kolton Burrows
Sunday 29 Jeff Gilles Fred Bartz Tim Ender
Keegan Naser
Gib & Donna Ganther
Jennie Childs
Adam Jordan
-6- -3-
“Train a Child Up in the Way He Should Go . . .”
Little Star Daycare News
We are excited to enter March as
February ended a little different this
year than it did last year! There were no
record breaking snowfalls
or ridiculously cold weather!
This month we will be busy
preparing for our annual book
fair, which will be taking place
during the week of March 30th-April 3rd and
then on Sunday, April 5th.
St. Patrick's Day is always a fun time
here at Little Star. We set traps and
try to catch those sneaky leprechauns!
They always seem to get away from us,
but we will continue trying!
Have a fantastic March and keep us in your
prayers as we hopefully get the construction
process started on both the parsonage and
downstairs daycare! 2020 is a year of changes
and we are very ready for it!
Krystina Schumacher, Administrator/Director
Visit our website at www.altoonalittlestar.com
SUBMISSION DEADLINES Sunday Bulletin -
EACH THURSDAY BY 8:00 AM Newsletter - THE 20TH OF EACH MONTH
YOUR COOPERATION IS NECESSARY AND VERY APPRECIATED!
Use of the Bethlehem Fellowship Hall When you or your group wish to use the fellowship hall please schedule this through Charleen in the church office 715.832.9953 ext 2; Mon-Fri 8:30 am -12:30 pm (or leave a voice mail); by email to [email protected]; or leave a note on her desk with a phone number or some way to reach you.
Bethlehem Lutheran - Our Church
CONFIRMATION for 7th & 8thgraders Wednesdays from 5:30 - 6:30 pm
8th Grade Student & Parent meeting following the worship service on
Sunday, March 8th. This is a required meeting as we will be discussing and making plans
for Confirmation Day.
Contacts are: Mark Jordan 715-831-8519 (home) or 715-579-3483 (cell) or [email protected] Gary & Pam Hansen 715-831-1917 / [email protected] Pastor Tim 715-832-9953 ext 3 / [email protected]
The Fellowship Hall has been booked for use on these dates in March 2020:
March 9 - Girl Scout Troop Meeting 6-8:30 pm March 23 - Girl Scout Troop Meeting 6-8:30 pm Cassie Johnson, Girl Scout Troop leader
See above notice for details on reserving the fellowship hall. Please be sure to make proper contact so your event date is recorded.
The deadline for directing Thrivent Choice Dollars accrued in 2019 is March 31, 2020. To direct Choice Dollars, call 800-847-4836
and say “Thrivent Choice.”
SUNDAY SCHOOL NEWS
Class time is from 8:45 - 9:45 am
for children ages 3 yrs - high school.
——————————————————————————————————————————————
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THE PARADE OF PALMS ON
PALM SUNDAY - APRIL 5TH
Contact Gary or Pam Hansen about Sunday School at 715-831-1917 or [email protected]
Going to Camp Luther this summer?
Remember Bethlehem offers Scholarships for that!
Check in the office; there is a file on the credenza.
Monthly Meeting Schedule . . .
Praise Team Practice at 6:30 pm Thursdays, March 5th, 19th & 26th
Daycare Ministry Team Meeting Thursday, March 12th at 4:00 am
Daycare Staff In-Service Tuesday March 3rd 5:30-7:30 pm
in the fellowship hall
Council Meeting
Christian Education Ministry Team & Youth Ministry Team Meeting
Sunday, March, 1stat 11:00 am after worship — to discuss VBS
Mark your calendar now if you are involved in these!
Tues., March 10th
at 6:oo pm
Elders Meeting
UPDATE FROM THE DÉCOR TEAM
Thank you so much for the great response and donations toward our projects to update the upper level of the church. To date we have received over $3,100.00! We have ordered and received the table and chairs for the seating area in the library, donations for 10 round dining tables for the fellowship hall and other donations for décor, signature wall, coffee station and more.
You may have noticed new cellular shades in the hallway and fellowship hall. Which have been covered by insurance due to the previous shades having cords hanging down which were a hazard to our little daycare children. We have them for the nursery and will install them at a later date. We are patiently waiting on our insurance company to settle on the sewer backup so Little Star Daycare can begin the repair process. Until the little ones are back down in the center we will hold off with any painting, carpeting or decor projects. Thank you again for your outpouring of generosity. There are still some envelopes on the board by the office should you want to make a donation.
“Things I Never Knew About the Bible”
Join us for Sunday morning Bible study from 9-9:45 am in the Fellowship Hall. If
you’re dropping off your children for Sunday school, or if you’d like to spend
some extra time in God’s Word before worship, we hope you’ll stop by and
check it out! Last year Pastor Tim had the opportunity to spend two weeks in
Israel, and he’ll share some of his insights and teachings (and photos!) from the
Holy Land. Grab a cup of coffee, bring your Bible, and join us as we take a fresh
look at some familiar Bible stories in their original context.
-7- -2-
Reaching beyond our walls . . . Our place in the Community
Altoona Food Pantry will be Thursday, March 26
th
from 4:30 - 6:30 pm The Pantry is now located at
701 Seventh St. West, Altoona, WI
Contact Message Phone # is 715-255-0783 Sponsored by The Altoona Compassion Coalition and
is for anyone in the Altoona School District. (no I.D. or proof of need required)
‹‹‹ 2 CAN SUNDAY is March 1st ››› Bring non-perishable food to stock our small food
pantry for Bethlehem members or Little Star Daycare
families. Watch for bags that will be set up at a
welcome station by the Little Star Daycare
entrance. If you have a need or know of anyone
who is in need of food please feel free to use the
pantry or take the prepared bags.
Christian Growth & Fellowship . . .
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Can evangelism really be that simple – in the first century, as well as the 21st century? Is it really as easy as “Come and see”?
Maybe you’re already comfortable talking with others about your faith. Maybe it’s no big deal to invite your friends or your co-workers or your neighbors to check out your church one Sunday.
But if you’re like most people, the thought makes you break out in a cold sweat. As we move closer to Good Friday and Easter Sunday – a prime opportunity to reach out to those
who are looking to connect with God – consider how you might extend a Philip-style invitation this year.
Don’t get wrapped up in promoting our worship services. Don’t focus on the efforts to spruce up the building. Don’t talk about the theological differences between Bethlehem and any other church.
Those are all good things. But they’re not the most important thing. The most important thing is we have an amazing Savior. We follow a Lord who lifts people up,
breaks the power of sin, and changes lives. Jesus is the only One worth following. Jesus is the only One who saves. Jesus is the only One who will make an eternal difference in your life.
But don’t take my word for it. Come and see for yourself. In Christ, Pastor Tim Stein
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THE RASMUSSEN SCHOLARSHIP is available to all high school seniors graduating this spring, especially those students who will be attending UW-Eau Claire, UW-River Falls or Chippewa Valley Technical College. There are some requirements to the qualifications, so if you are considering any of the schools listed (or any others), please don't hesitate to contact Karen Keehn for more information. The applications are available from Karen or the church office. You may also get in touch with Karen at 715-835-4695 or [email protected].
Any inquiries are welcome.
Register NOW for our annual Walk for Hunger Nyre You!
Join us on Saturday, May 2nd at 10 a.m. to participate in a ½ or 2 mile walk, Silent Auction, Bake Sale, Kids area, food, music and fun!
This will be the 8th year for the fundraiser and with participation from the Altoona School District, local police and fire departments and families and friends of the program. You can register by picking up a form/flyers in the fellowship hall on the south wall or NEW THIS YEAR register on Eventbrite. Search Annual Walk for Hunger Nyre You at www.eventbrite.com
Not a walker? That’s ok! We are now accepting donations for the silent auction, sign up to donate baked goods, volunteer on site the day of or help set up on May 1st. Any donation or time given is greatly appreciated. Help us promote this event by picking up a flyer to share with your friends, family and co-workers. Silent Auction items can be a themed basket, large or small item, service, gift cards, etc. Please drop your donations off in the church office. Any questions can be directed to Jennie Childs at 715-829-7024 or email to [email protected]
Sunday Morning Coffee Servers are always
needed. The schedule is on the counter in the kitchen to make the coffee and provide treats. Contact LeAnne Hohman if you have questions or if you would like to provide the goodies but not do the actual serving on Sunday, 715-456-7572.
Tuesday Morning Prayer Group
meets at 10:00 am in the Prayer Room. Everyone is welcome to join us! Contact Lois Schnorr 715-834-4071 for details.
Informational Gatherings offered by Thrivent —
Will Your Taxes Affect Your Retirement? Strategies to help you work toward a lower tax bracket in retirement. Thurs. March 19, 2020
It’s All About the When. For many, Social Security is a vital income source. Thurs. April 23, 2020 To register for either program call Sharah Siefkes at 608-304-6518 |Registration & refreshments at 5:30 pm | program at 6:00 pm | Hanger 54 (3800 Starr Ave) Eau Claire WI.
Fellowship & Worship in Lent Join us for dinner at 5:00 pm Wednesday evenings,
followed by worship at 6:30 pm. The Bethlehem Ministry Teams are asking for help in
preparing and serving the meals that will be offered before midweek worship services in Lent. If you are willing to share your time or culinary skills – or if you would simply like to donate an item for a meal – please sign up on the bulletin board in the fellowship hall.
This year’s sermon theme for Lent will be “Shaped by the Cross,” based on a book by Ken Gire. Using the story of how Michelangelo created his famous sculpture, the Pietá, we will consider the depth of the sacrifice of Christ and how taking up our cross and following Jesus is a costly endeavor for us too.
Would you rather have March
come in like a Lamb or a Lion?
