Bethel Tidings

Bethel Tidings Vol. 77 May 28th, 2023, No. 20

Posted on May 27, 2023 by betheltidings

Promises, Promises

You’ve done it. I’ve done it. Sometimes, in the moment, we can’t help ourselves from promising something we don’t follow through on. It is, at the very least disappointing and leads to unflattering conclusions of one’s word and character. This week, after 20 years, an old friend from Arizona made good on a promise to visit us. It was a joy to share Island life with him. I think he felt relieved he was finally as good as his word.

In the midst of giving a farewell address to his disciples (John 14), Jesus made them a bunch of promises. He told them he was preparing a place for them in his Father’s house (14:1-2), was coming back, would take them with him (14:3), and was sending an Advocate (the Spirit) to help them after he was gone (14:16-20, 26). His intent was to assure them that they would be okay despite what was about the happen (his arrest, flogging, and crucifixion). While the events leading to Jesus’ death would have challenged anyone’s confidence, his resurrection demonstrated his capacity to fulfill his promises.

Faith is no small thing. Believing in God, an afterlife and heaven seem so foreign to our physical senses. But in the descriptions of who Jesus was, what he said God’s kingdom is all about, we have some factors to consider. Jesus’ disciples found these factors reliable enough to dedicate their lives to following. How about you? Have you considered the promises of Jesus?

Pastor Rick

CHURCH NEWS

*** If you have a need or know of someone in need, please call Janet Hanlin (920-535-0021), who represents Bethel’s Deacons. We can help!

*** The Giving Option is live on Bethel’s website: http://www.islandbethelchurch.com.

*** Sunday School: Scott Johnson continues his series on “The Gospel Through the Old Testament: the Pentateuch”.

*** Sunday Service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Pastor Rick continues his study of the Gospel of John.

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect: will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are doing a video series entitled, “Death and Resurrection of the Messiah” with Ray Vander Laan.

*** UPDATE Bethel Youth Group: Will meet Wednesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. through June. For information or to volunteer (even if for once or twice a month), contact Michelle Jordan for details 920-535-0081.

*** UPDATE Memorial Day Service: Begins at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 29^th at Bethel Church and then heads to the cemetery.

*** Ladies’ Bible Study Book Discussion: we will be discussing Mark Buchanan’s book, “The Holy Wild” on June 1st at 2:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Dee Brestin will be at the Kress Center in Egg Harbor giving her presentation on the “Friendships of Women” Fridays, June 2^nd, 9^th, and 16^th at 10:00- noon. Her presentation is FREE. Dee is a well-known Christian speaker and author. Plan on attending ladies.

*** Gordon Jaeger’s memorial service will take place at Bethel Evangelical Free Church, on Saturday, June 3, at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in the name of Gordon Jaeger, to the Washington Island Music Festival at: https://www.washingtonislandmusicfestival.com/support-us

*** UPDATE: The next Praise and Prayer service will meet Sunday June 4^th beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Ladies Book Club book for June is Bill Bryson’s, “The Mother Tongue”. We will meet in Memorial Hall on June 5^th at 6:00 p.m.

*** Vacation Bible School (VBS) will be June 19^th through the 24^th. If you’d like to volunteer or attend, contact Betty Lou Smith.

*** VBS Planning meetings will meet every Thursday night through June 15^th at 7:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** We extend our condolences to the Paul Ellefson family in his passing. We’ll include his obituary soon.*** If you’re interested in becoming a member of Bethel Church, let Pastor Rick, or any of the Elders know. The process is simple: an application, meet with the Elder Board and confess your faith in Jesus.

COMMUNITY NEWS

*** WICHP Hours are Tue. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wed. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Fridays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. WICHP at 920-847-2108

*** “Rock the Raft Concert” will be held at Schoolhouse Beach Saturday May 27^th. This FREE concert is from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. and is sponsored by the TPAC. Musicians will be performing from the raft, whether on land or sea or foam. Donations will be accepted and are greatly appreciated. Come out and enjoy the talent and kick off the summer in style. Locals can enjoy the festivities before they get too busy with the season.

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Sunday May 28th 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. in Trinity Library.

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Sunday May 28th 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Bethel Church lobby.

*** Graduation for this year’s high school seniors is June 2^nd.

*** Little League Home games: May 29^th (2:00 p.m.), June 2^nd, June 16^th, and June 23^rd.

*** Washington Island baseball team played at Sister Bay on Sunday. The Islanders lost 5-6. On Sunday, May 28^th the Islanders face Maplewood at home.

Bethel Tidings Vol. 77 May 21st, 2023, No. 19

Posted on May 21, 2023May 23, 2023 by betheltidings

Beyond a Mother’s Love

It was Mother’s Day last weekend. In our small group this week, one of the ladies reflected on giving birth the first time. The pain, especially with little or no medication, was profound. She’d not known how intense it was going to be until she went through it. In her next births, however, she knew what was coming. Each time, aware of what awaited her, she knew what she had to endure in order for the child to come. Now that’s a demonstration of love.

This came up as we were reflecting on Jesus’ last days. Jesus knew what was before him. The pain and death, the separation from the Father, were all things he told his disciples were going to happen (Matthew 20:18-19). He knew. And he also knew that at least two of his disciples, guys whom he had spent years with, would either betray him (Judas in John 13:21, 27) or deny knowing him (Peter in John 13:36).

Many know, from John 3:16, that God loves the world. John 1:1-3, in introducing Jesus as the Word, indicates that the Word (Jesus) also created the world. So, here he is exhibiting the love of God and directing them to true faith and life, and their plan is to reject and kill him. No wonder his spirit is deeply troubled (13:21). And still, knowing what was about to take place, he went through it anyway.

That’s how much he loves you (Romans 5:8). Beyond even the love and sacrifice of a mother.

Pastor Rick

CHURCH NEWS

*** If you have a need or know of someone in need, please call Janet Hanlin (920-535-0021), who represents Bethel’s Deacons. We can help!

*** The Giving Option is live on Bethel’s website: http://www.islandbethelchurch.com.

*** Sunday School: Scott Johnson continues his series on “The Gospel Through the Old Testament: the Pentateuch”.

*** Sunday Service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Pastor Rick continues his study of the Gospel of John.

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect: will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are doing a video series entitled, “Death and Resurrection of the Messiah” with Ray Vander Laan.

*** Bethel Youth Group: We are reassessing day and time. For information or to volunteer (even if for once or twice a month), contact Michelle Jordan for details 920-535-0081.

*** Church Spring Cleanup: Trustees and Volunteers needed on Saturday, May 20^th. C’mon and make the adage, “Many hands make for short work” true! We begin at 9:00 a.m.

*** Ladies’ Bible Study Book Discussion: we will be discussing Mark Buchanan’s book, “The Holy Wild” on June 1st at 2:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Ladies Book Club book for June is Bill Bryson’s, “The Mother Tongue”. We will meet in Memorial Hall on June 5^th at 6:00 p.m. If you are interested in reading this book, call Laura at the Library to have her order a book for you.

*** The Mother Daughter Banquet was well attended (103 mothers and daughters). It was a special evening and enjoyed by everyone. A skit titled, “All in the life of a Woman” brought us through the various stages of a woman’s life, from pregnancy, to infancy to teen years, to prom, and then to marriage, and finally to being a grandmother. Laughter filled the room as humor from these stages was acted out. The Kehren, Pratt, and Dusik girls sang two lovely songs that were a highlight. Hymns were sung honoring Mary Jorgensen. A young version of 27 women were on display for all attendees to guess who each might be. One person knew all 27! Betty Lou Smith gave closing thoughts on the power of words. Words we speak to one another can build up or tear down. Words we speak can nourish life. Gentle words are a tree of life. Thanks to Jeannie Gunnlaugsson and her helpers for preparing the delicious meal, the men who served, and all who sang, performed, and helped in so many ways to make this event a success.

*** Vacation Bible School (VBS) will be June 19^th through the 24^th. If you’d like to volunteer or attend, contact Betty Lou Smith.*** If you’re interested in becoming a member of Bethel Church, let Pastor Rick, or any of the Elders know. The process is simple: an application, meet with the Elder Board and confess your faith in Jesus.

COMMUNITY NEWS

*** WICHP Hours are Tue. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wed. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Fridays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. WICHP at 920-847-2108

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Tuesday, May 23rd 10:00 a.m. to Noon at Trinity Fellowship Hall.

*** Baccalaureate Service: come and celebrate this year’s Island high school graduates on Wednesday May 24^th at 7:00 p.m. at Trinity Church.

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Sunday May 28th 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. in Trinity Library.

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Sunday May 28th 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Bethel Church lobby.

*** Graduation for this year’s high school seniors is June 2^nd.

*** Little League Home games: May 29^th (2:00 p.m.), June 2^nd, June 16^th, and June 23^rd.

Bethel Tidings Vol. 77 May 14th, 2023, No. 18

Posted on May 13, 2023May 11, 2023 by betheltidings

From Tee Ball to the Majors

I’m coaching hitting with our little leaguers, ages 7 to 12. While our experienced hitters are crushing it, the 7 and 8-year-olds are works in progress. Most are learning how to hold and swing a bat. So, we’re just having them swing hard and repeat it again and again. Their muscles, eyes and minds need to get familiar with all that motion. Someday we can talk about situational hitting, but not today. Just keep swinging.

Having faith in Jesus is kind of like that. Sure, there’s a lot of complicated theology out there: Questions of God’s sovereignty, the end-times and more. But the core of faith starts with the basics: Loving and knowing God. We love God when we realize how much he loved us (1 John 4:16-19). That Jesus made the first move by sacrificing himself to make us right with God demonstrates that love (Romans 5:8).

Knowing God, well that’s a lifelong process. Reading the Bible helps, after we figure out what it is and how it’s set up (2 Timothy 3:16). Praying, which is really just talking to God, is vital because it helps a relationship develop (Matthew 6:5-15). But, still, it feels weird, so we also spend time with others who can coach us through some of the questions, doubts, and struggles (Hebrews 10:24-25).

And that’s it. Those things, repeated again and again, deepen and develop faith. And, in time, we may even be the coach for others. Just keep swinging!

Pastor Rick

CHURCH NEWS

*** If you have a need or know of someone in need, please call Janet Hanlin (920-535-0021), who represents Bethel’s Deacons. We can help!

*** The Giving Option is live on Bethel’s website: http://www.islandbethelchurch.com.

*** Sunday School: Scott Johnson introduces his series on “The Gospel Through the Old Testament: the Pentateuch”.

*** Sunday Service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Pastor Rick continues his study of the Gospel of John.

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect: will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are doing a video series entitled, “Death and Resurrection of the Messiah” with Ray Vander Laan.

*** UPDATE Bethel Youth Group: We are reassessing day and time. For information or to volunteer (even if for once or twice a month), contact Michelle Jordan for details 920-535-0081.

*** UPDATE Men’s Breakfast: There will be no Men’s Breakfast Saturday, May 13^th. We will return on June 10^th.

*** UPDATE VBS: There will be a meeting for all VBS volunteers and staff on Thursday, May 18^th at 7:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Church Spring Cleanup: Trustees and Volunteers needed on Saturday, May 20^th. C’mon and make the adage, “Many hands make for short work” true!

*** Ladies’ Bible Study Book Discussion: we will be discussing Mark Buchanan’s book, “The Holy Wild” on June 1st at 2:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Ladies Book Club book for June is Bill Bryson’s, “The Mother Tongue”. We will meet in Memorial Hall on June 5^th at 6:00 p.m. If you are interested in reading this book, call Laura at the Library to have her order a book for you.

*** A brief Bethel Church history from the March 22^nd 1962 edition of the Door County Advocate: “Before Bethel church (on the road to Washington Harbor) was built in 1865, people met in homes or school houses for prayer meetings or an occasional preaching. Visiting evangelists came occasionally to both Rock and Washington Islands. Rev. Peter Kitwood of the Bethel Society visited the island in 1864. He became so intrigued with the island and its people, that he talked them into building a place of worship. The people all joined in, regardless of their faith, and gave of their time and money to build Bethel church on Washington Island. They had substantial help from the Bethel Society, which was an organization formed around waterfronts for the benefit of sailors. At first Bethel church had no steeple or bell, but a Mrs. Benjamin Franklin donated the bell. A belfry was built and the bell installed. It is still sounded to announce the holding of services at all times. The first preachers were sent by the Bethel Society, and Rev. Peter Kitwood was the first pastor, with a salary of $800 a year, which was a lot of money in those days. He stayed until 1867.”

COMMUNITY NEWS

*** WICHP Hours are Tue. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wed. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Fridays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. WICHP at 920-847-2108

*** The Washington Island Art and Nature Center: This year’s Birding Festival, taking place May 12^th -14^th. This year we are limiting our registration to 50. You can register online at https://wianc.org.  You can mail in your registration to Art & Nature Center, 1977 Main Rd., Washington Island, WI 54246.

*** WICHP Luncheon: Thursday May 18^th, Noon to 1:30 p.m. at Trinity Fellowship Hall. Presenters: Milly Gonzales with HELP of Door County and Sophie Stein with Family Services Sexual Assault Center. Call or email WICHP for reservations by 4:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 16^th. 920.847.2108 or wichp77@gmail.com.

Bethel Tidings Vol. 77 May 7th, 2023, No. 17

Posted on May 3, 2023 by betheltidings

Anger in Vogue

Soon after my Grandpa Sorn died, my mother took off into the Arizona desert on an epic curse-filled walk. Losing her dad, first to Alzheimer’s and then to death pushed her to the limits and she had it out with God, with nature, and with anything else that would listen. She was hurt and angry. Death does that and, it seems, my mom’s emotions are in good company.

When Jesus visits his good friends Mary and Martha after their brother Lazarus had died, he comes to a house filled with mourning (John 11:17-44). As Jesus arrives and sees Marys’ grief, Jesus “was deeply moved in spirit and troubled” (John 11:33 NIV). “Deeply moved” is better translated filled with anger (as in the New Living Translation), the word often being used to describe a horse’s snort. Anger? From Jesus? Why?

Grant Osborne indicates that it is likely “an anger at the power of sin and death in this world.” And in entering into this scene with both anger and weeping (11:35), we see two sides of Jesus, his justice and love expressed in anger and sorrow. Death is an enemy. Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb and gives him new life (11:43). Within the next week or two, he is going to experience death himself, and being the resurrection and the life, will bring life to all who believe him (11:25, 1 Cor 15:51-58). So, yes, death is bad. But as we grieve and are angry at its devastation, we also look with hope to the life that is to come.

Pastor Rick

CHURCH NEWS

*** If you have a need or know of someone in need, please call Janet Hanlin (920-535-0021), who represents Bethel’s Deacons. We can help!

*** The Giving Option is live on Bethel’s website: http://www.islandbethelchurch.com.

*** Sunday School: Mike Thielke finishes our discussion of C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity.

*** Sunday Service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Pastor Rick continues his study of the Gospel of John.

*** UPDATE: Potluck after Sunday service May 7^th in Memorial Hall. Bring a dish to pass. If life has been too busy to prepare a dish, don’t let that prevent you from coming. Please come and enjoy a meal and fellowship. There’s always plenty of food.

*** UPDATE: Praise and Prayer Night! Sunday May 7^th beginning at 5:00 p.m. in Bethel Memorial Hall. Everyone is welcome. Soup will be served afterward.

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect: will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are doing a video series entitled, “Death and Resurrection of the Messiah” with Ray Vander Laan.

*** UPDATE Bethel Youth Group: returns to Tuesdays from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. For information or to volunteer (even if for once or twice a month), contact Michelle Jordan for details 920-535-0081.

*** Ladies’ Bible Study Book Discussion: we will be discussing Mark Buchanan’s book, “The Holy Wild” on June 1st at 2:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Mother Daughter Banquet will be Friday, May 12^th at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. The theme this year is “All in the Life of a Woman”. If you don’t have a mother or a daughter bring a friend or someone else’s daughter. Mark your calendars for this fun evening. Please call Marianna Gibson at 920-847-2225 to make reservations. 5 yrs. old and under are free, 6-11 yrs. old $6.00 and 12 yrs. old and older $13.00. Even if you are in the skit, please make reservations. Thank you.

*** Bethel Builders’ final meeting before the Mother Daughter Banquet, Monday May 8^th at 6:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. If you are in the skit, please try to attend.

COMMUNITY NEWS

*** WICHP Hours are Tue. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wed. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Fridays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. WICHP at 920-847-2108

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Tuesday, May 9^th at 10:00 to Noon at Trinity Fellowship Hall.

*** Foot Care Clinic: Free! Sponsored by NWTC Nursing Program & WICHP. Thursday, May 11th at 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Appointments required. (30-minute appointments) Please schedule by calling the WICHP Office @ 920-847-2108 or email: wichp77@gmail.com

*** Children’s Fluoride Clinic: Thursday, May 11^TH, 8:45 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at school.

*** Fluoride Clinic: Thursday, May 11^th 1:00-3:00 p.m. at Trinity Church.

*** Ever get skunked while fishing in Detroit Harbor? This is from the Door County Advocate September 8^th, 1894: “On an average of 5,000 pounds of fish are taken from Detroit Harbor and freighted to Green Bay (city) by the steamer Liberty every other day! This amount is gradually Increasing and by the end of next month there will probably be three or four times that amount.”

Bethel Tidings Vol. 77 April 30th, 2023, No. 16

Posted on April 23, 2023May 3, 2023 by betheltidings

Servants’ Quarter #10

Years ago, when I was an educational consultant, I was involved with a task force charged with finding an upper-level manager for a school district. Upon reviewing the resumes that came in I was struck by a term that had significant meaning for me, but I wasn’t sure it was being used in the resumes in the same way I thought about it. The term was, “Servant Leader”. Almost every candidate used the term in their objective or purpose statement. “I want to be a servant leader.” “I see myself as a servant leader.”

The term servant leader, as these candidates were using it, came from an essay written by Robert K. Greenleaf in 1970. There are now schools dedicated to teaching this philosophy and there are degree options at some universities that focus on promoting this style of leadership. It is an interesting approach to leadership, but upon reading these candidates’ cover letters, it became clear that many of them didn’t really know what the term meant.

My conception of the servant leader goes back thousands of years. This term has been conceptualized in scripture of men who dedicated themselves in the service of another and then became leaders. Thus, Joshua was the servant of Moses; Elisha of Elijah; and Peter, John, and Paul were servants of Jesus Christ, and all became leaders in their own right.

Of course, the quintessential example of the servant leader is Jesus. He was foretold in Isaiah 42:1 “Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will bring justice to the nations.” Jesus was both leader and servant. He leads us to salvation because of his service to us on the cross and through his resurrection.

Elder Mike

CHURCH NEWS

*** If you have a need or know of someone in need, please call Janet Hanlin (920-535-0021), who represents Bethel’s Deacons. We can help!

*** The Giving Option is live on Bethel’s website: http://www.islandbethelchurch.com.

*** UPDATE Sunday School: Mike Thielke continues the discussion of C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity.

*** Sunday Service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Pastor Rick continues his study of the Gospel of John.

*** UPDATE Tuesday night Adult Connect: will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are doing a video series entitled, “Death and Resurrection of the Messiah” with Ray Vander Laan.

*** Bethel Youth Group is meeting on Wednesdays this spring from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. For information or to volunteer (even if for once or twice a month), contact Michelle Jordan for details 920-535-0081.

** UPDATE Ladies’ Bible Study: Rather than starting another Bible Study we plan to read the books listed below and meet to discuss on the listed dates. Jen Wilkins book will lead us into studying a book of the Bible starting in September.

June 1st – “The Holy Wild” by Mark Buchanan.

July 6th – “The Problem of Prayer” by Cherie Hill.

August 3rd – “The Best Yes” by Lysa TerKeurst. August 29th – “Women of the Word” by Jen Wilkins.

*** Leadership Council: Meets at 7:00 p.m. Monday, May 1^st. If you’re reporting for your program or ministry, please plan on attending.

*** Book Club: Next read is Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express. If you are interested in reading this book, contact Laura at the Library and she will get a book for you. The discussion as a group is May 1^st at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** If you are in the skit for the Mother Daughter Banquet, please attend this meeting on Monday, May 8^that 6:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall:

COMMUNITY NEWS

*** WICHP Hours are Tue. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wed. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Fridays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. WICHP at 920-847-2108

*** Caregiver Support Group: Thursday May 4^th at 10 – 11:30 a.m. WICHP office at Trinity.

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Tuesday, May 9^th at 10:00 to Noon at Trinity Fellowship Hall.

Bethel Tidings Vol. 77 April 23rd, 2023, No. 15

Posted on April 22, 2023May 3, 2023 by betheltidings

18 APRIL 2023, 07:49 AM

Ok. So full disclosure. That car I wrote about last week? The “reset” and a new future? Yeah, I got rid of it. Hey, a metaphor can only go so far. That metaphor went 254,000 miles. Its issues leading to the “reset” pushed me to pull the trigger and move on.

Sometimes, we need to assess where we are and accept the necessity of change. When Jesus met up with his disciples after he rose from the dead (Matthew 28:16-20), he charged them with making disciples from now on. They were the ones to help people know and mature in faith in the same ways Jesus had led them. No doubt this was daunting for them. I mean Jesus just made his big comeback, shedding death like some irritating dandruff. But now He mandates the disciples take center stage?

God’s plans stretch us in new ways. Having gifted us (1 Cor. 12), he has plans for us to use them in his mission (Ephesians 2:10). That may mean finding ourselves in new unfamiliar settings. Growing up, I was quiet and shy. Being asked to lead anything put me in deer-in-the-headlights mode. But when a call to follow God included leading our Intervarsity large group meetings at Marquette I had to serve in unexpected ways.

But Jesus doesn’t send us down that road alone. His promise is to be with us through it all (Matt 28:20). And that makes pulling the trigger to move on daunting, but doable.

Pastor Rick

CHURCH NEWS

*** If you have a need or know of someone in need, please call Janet Hanlin (920-535-0021), who represents Bethel’s Deacons. We can help!

*** The Giving Option is live on Bethel’s website: http://www.islandbethelchurch.com.

*** UPDATE Sunday School: No Sunday school April 23^rd. We’ll return to Mere Christianity on April 30^th.

*** Sunday Service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Mike Thielke brings the message on the Good Shepherd. (John 10:1-21)

*** UPDATE: No Tuesday night Adult Connect Group for next week We’ll reconvene on Tuesday, May 2^nd.

*** Bethel Builders: will meet Monday, April 24^th at 2:00 p.m. to continue preparation for the Mother Daughter Banquet.

June 1st – “The Holy Wild” by Mark Buchanan.

July 6th – “The Problem of Prayer” by Cherie Hill.

August 3rd – “The Best Yes” by Lysa TerKeurst. August 29th – “Women of the Word” by Jen Wilkins.

*** Mother Daughter Banquet will be Friday, May 12^th at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. The theme this year is “All in the Life of a Woman”. If you don’t have a mother or a daughter bring a friend or someone else’s daughter. Mark your calendars for this fun evening. Please call Marianna Gibson at 920-847-2225 to make reservations. Even if you are in the skit please make reservations. Thank you.

*** From the Bethel Church Youth Group: “Thank you from the kids that attend the Bethel Church Youth Group, for supporting us and fundraising. Having the afforded opportunities to attend the annual Ski Trip, Gambler’s game, Districts, etc., means a lot to the kids. Thank you so much for helping us fundraise for these opportunities.”

COMMUNITY NEWS

*** WICHP Hours are Tue. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wed. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Fridays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. WICHP at 920-847-2108

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Tuesday, April 25^th 10:00 a.m. to Noon at Trinity Fellowship Hall.

*** National Arbor Day is April 28. Since 1972 the Arbor Day Foundation has planted trees to take on some of the biggest environmental challenges of our time. Things like climate change, food insecurity, natural disasters, urban heat islands, and more. The foundation has strong network of global partners, a science-based approach, and more than 50 years of planting trees all over the world.

*** Ever wonder what kinds of data those buoys in the lake collect? You can go to the National Data Buoy Center to find out. Go to the following link and zoom in on our part of the world to get up to date meteorological information and other information, as well as historical data: https://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/

Bethel Tidings Vol. 77 April 16th, 2023, No.14

Posted on April 16, 2023May 3, 2023 by betheltidings

Reset

First, the battery light came on. “That’s not good”, I thought. Then more dashboard lights came on. Then, south of Green Bay, the steering wheel became stiff. My trip to Milwaukee had hit a snag. I pulled into a gas station, opened the hood, and with all my mechanical expertise, concluded I had no idea what was wrong.

Before calling AAA for help, though, I turned the car off, waited, and tried starting it car again, you know, just in case the problem automagically disappeared. And I’ll be! It not only started but all the problems were gone. I started back to Green Bay, but the troubles never returned. So, I turned around again and drove to Milwaukee without another glitch. Apparently, a restart and reset solved its issues.

In our lives, there are times we could use a reset. We can become harried and discouraged and wonder how we got there and how to get out. The good news of Jesus is that, in his resurrection, he offers just that – a reset. We’ve just remembered this in our Easter celebrations. In confessing Jesus Christ as Lord and believing God raised him from the dead, we are saved and have new life (Romans 10:9-10 2 Cor 5:17).

New life. Same body, same past. But the acceptance that God loves us so much that he sent his Son to die for us changes everything. A freedom and release from regrets and failures, morally and otherwise, reorients our purpose and direction. Have you received that gift?

Pastor Rick

CHURCH NEWS

*** If you have a need or know of someone in need, please call Janet Hanlin (920-535-0021), who represents Bethel’s Deacons. We can help!

*** The Giving Option is live on Bethel’s website: http://www.islandbethelchurch.com.

*** Sunday School: Mike Thielke continues a series looking at the issues and subjects in C.S. Lewis’ “Mere Christianity”at 9:30 a.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Sunday Service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Pastor continues his message from the Gospel of John.

*** UPDATE: No Tuesday night Adult Connect Group for the next two weeks. We’ll reconvene on Tuesday, May 2^nd.

June 1st – “The Holy Wild” by Mark Buchanan.

July 6th – “The Problem of Prayer” by Cherie Hill.

August 3rd – “The Best Yes” by Lysa TerKeurst. August 29th – “Women of the Word” by Jen Wilkins.

*** The Ladies Tea party was a very enjoyable evening. Some ladies dressed very fancy for high tea and fancy finger sandwiches, trifle, and more. It was no surprise that the table with the most Canadians won the Tea Trivia game!

*** Bethel Builders will meet Monday, April 17th at 2:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Plans for Mother Daughter Banquet continue. Please try to attend if you are involved in the skit, or other committees.

*** Mother Daughter Banquet will be Friday, May 12^th at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. The theme this year is “All in the Life of a Woman”. If you don’t have a mother or a daughter bring a friend or someone else’s daughter. Mark your calendars for this fun evening. Please call Marianna Gibson at 920-847-2225 to make reservations. Even if you are in the skit please make reservations. Thank you.

COMMUNITY NEWS

*** WICHP Hours are Tue. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wed. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Fridays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. WICHP at 920-847-2108

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Sunday, April 16^th 9:00 to 9:45 a.m. in the Trinity Library

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Sunday, April 16^th 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bethel Church Lobby

*** WICHP Luncheon: Thursday, April 20^th Noon to 1:45 p.m. at Trinity. Presenter is Mo Nellis, R.N. with DCMC Senior Life Solutions Program. Call or email for reservations by 4:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 18th. 920-847-2108 or wichp77@gmail.com.

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Tuesday, April 25^th 10:00 a.m. to Noon at Trinity Fellowship Hall.

*** The Washington Island Art and Nature Center: This year’s Birding Festival, taking place May 12^th -14^th. Additional programs will include a presentation by Joel Vos, the Refuge Manager for Green Bay and Gravel Island National Wildlife Refuges, and an Owl Prowl. This year we are limiting our registration to 50, so be sure to make your plans soon. You can register online at https://wianc.org.  You can mail in your registration to Art & Nature Center, 1977 Main Rd., Washington Island, WI 54246.

Bethel Tidings Vol. 77 April 2nd, 2023, No. 13

Posted on April 1, 2023 by betheltidings

Being Blind Helps You See Things

It’s one of the more humorous encounters in the Bible. A guy gets healed from blindness, but it’s done by the wrong guy on the wrong day (John 9:1-41). So as the guy interacts with the powers that be, they keep harping on the fact that, in their minds, it was the wrong day, a Sabbath, so the guy who did the healing, Jesus, must be a bad guy. As they try to persuade the guy how bad Jesus is, his only response is, “I don’t know anything about that. All I know is that I was blind and now I see.”

My favorite part of the story is when the guy is ordered to tell them the story again. He responds, “I already told you this… Do you want to be his disciples too?” (9:27). The power brokers are so focused on how wrong Jesus is, or that the miracle even occurred, they’re refusing to consider the extraordinary nature of healing someone who has been blind since birth. Awe and wonder are supplanted by bitterness and rage. And it blinds them from seeing something truly remarkable.

Jesus makes some further comments about this spiritual blindness (9:39-41). At our core, as humans, we have flaws and failure. One of our biggest flaws, however, is an inability to acknowledge or face that. And Jesus’ point is to bring that truth to light, so that in accepting our need of help, spiritually, we might actually receive it.

Pastor Rick

CHURCH NEWS

*** If you have a need or know of someone in need, please call Janet Hanlin (920-535-0021), who represents Bethel’s Deacons. We can help!

*** The Giving Option is live on Bethel’s website: http://www.islandbethelchurch.com.

*** Sunday School: Mike Thielke continues a series looking at the issues and subjects in C.S. Lewis’ “Mere Christianity” at 9:30 a.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Sunday Service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Pastor continues his series in the gospel of John.

*** POTLUCK 1^st Sunday of the month following service. Everyone is welcome.

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are doing a video series entitled, Death and Resurrection of the Messiah with Ray Vander Laan.

*** Bethel Youth Group is meeting on Wednesdays this fall and winter from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. For information or to volunteer (even if for once or twice a month), contact Michelle Jordan for details 920-535-0081.

*** Ladies Bible Study: Memorial Hall, Thursday afternoons at 2:00 p.m. and Thursday evenings at 6:00 p.m. “Jesus in Me” by Anne Graham Lotz.

*** Men’s Breakfast: Saturday, April 8^th at 8:00 a.m. in Memorial Hall. Bring a buddy and enjoy great fellowship, a great meal, and message.

*** UPDATE: Flowers for Easter will soon be ordered. If you’d like to donate toward the fund to pay for them in honor of, or in memory of someone, please call Mary Andersen, 920-847-2191.

*** Good Friday Service at church on April 7^th at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary.

*** Easter Sunrise Service at Percy Johnson Park on April 9^th at 6:12 a.m. Join us for a community wide celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.

*** Alpha Course at Sue and Dick Tobeys’, Sunday nights at 5:30 p.m. at 1272 Jackson Harbor Road.

*** Ladies’ Tea Party: Monday, April 10^th 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Enjoy fellowship, food and fun. Dress in your finery if you’d like. Bring a friend to share in fun.

COMMUNITY NEWS

*** WICHP Hours are Tue. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wed. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Fridays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. WICHP at 920-847-2108

*** The Washington Island Art and Nature Center is pleased to announce this year’s Birding Festival, taking place May 12^th -14^th, and have provided the following information: “Lake Michigan is a flyway with thousands of migrating birds passing through this time of the year. In 2018 we recorded 139 species of birds, in 2019 we recorded 129 species and in 2022 we recorded 132 species.

In addition to wonderful birding on Washington Island, we will be able to spend Saturday morning birding on Plum Island. Additional programs will include a presentation by Joel Vos, the Refuge Manager for Green Bay and Gravel Island National Wildlife Refuges, and an Owl Prowl.

This year we are limiting our registration to 50, so be sure to make your plans soon. You can register online at https://wianc.org.  Or, you can mail in your registration to Art & Nature Center, 1977 Main Rd., Washington Island, WI 54246.

Bethel Tidings Vol. 77 March 26th, 2023, No. 12

Posted on March 25, 2023 by betheltidings

Seeing Red

I probably shouldn’t have said it, but in last week’s children’s message, I mentioned my dislike of Wisconsin Badgers basketball. It came up in response to an innocent question about rivals. As a Marquette alum, I seriously wouldn’t mind seeing the Badgers lose every game. Don’t tell me good things about their coach and their successes. I’m not interested.

Hmmm. That’s a bit much. But it’s the very nature of prejudice – to look past good and only seeing bad. And it’s a bit of what Jesus was up against as he told people what God had sent him to do. You see, most of the key religious leaders in his time period had ideas about what they thought God’s work should look like. Jesus was not it.

So, when he, from outside their approved circles, begins talking about God’s purposes, they refused to consider his claims (John 7:47-52). They, instead, accused him of deceiving people and even demon-possession (John 8:48, 52). This despite miraculous signs he performed. Jesus challenged people to look for truth and the freedom it will give (8:31-32). Their bias, however, would not allow them to consider that God could be working him.

The thing is, we’re all susceptible to this. We too think we know how God should act and so will often refuse to consider something that challenges our expectations. In the process, we can miss the new ways He is acting in our lives, our church and world. What might he be doing right now?

And, can I mention my admiration of Wisconsin Women’s hockey?

Pastor Rick

CHURCH NEWS

*** If you have a need or know of someone in need, please call Janet Hanlin (920-535-0021), who represents Bethel’s Deacons. We can help!

*** The Giving Option is live on Bethel’s website: http://www.islandbethelchurch.com.

*** Sunday School: Mike Thielke continues a series looking at the issues and subjects in C.S. Lewis’ “Mere Christianity” at 9:30 a.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Sunday Service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Pastor continues his series in John.

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are doing a video series entitled, Death and Resurrection of the Messiah with Ray Vander Laan.

*** Ladies Bible Study: Memorial Hall, Thursday afternoons at 2:00 p.m. and Thursday evenings at 6:00 p.m. “Jesus in Me” by Anne Graham Lotz.

*** Bethel Builders will meet March 27^th at 2:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Mother Daughter Banquet planning is our main focus.

*** UPDATE: Flowers for Easter will soon be ordered. If you’d like to donate in honor of or in memory of someone, please call Mary Andersen, 920-847-2191.

*** Good Friday Service at church on April 7^th at 7 p.m.

*** Easter Sunrise Service at Percy Johnson Park on April 9^th at 6:12 a.m.

*** Alpha Course at Sue and Dick Tobeys’, Sunday nights at 5:30 p.m. at 1272 Jackson Harbor Road

*** Mark Your Calendars Ladies: A Tea Party is scheduled for April 10^th at 6:00 p.m. at Bethel.

*** Mother Daughter Banquet will be May 12^th at 6:00 p.m.. The theme this year is “All in the Life of a Woman”. Mark your calendars for this fun evening.

*** UPDATED address for Sherry Young, who is recovering from a stroke: Odd Fellows, Sherry Young 1229 S. Jackson St. Green Bay WI 54301

*** From Sandy Green: I would like to thank everyone who has prayed for me over the last 3 months. God has answered many prayers for me. God has allowed me to go to the “edge” many times since Christmas. A friend of mine kept a diary of all that happened to me. The doctors said I would never be able to talk or communicate or walk very well. Now, after being at rehab for seven weeks, I can walk pretty well and talk. Had to have oxygen, but do not need that anymore. My hubby, Phil, has kept his vows to me and fought for my life. They kept telling him to let me go, but he said I was too young for that. Praise God he listened to God & not the doctors. Thank you for all the cards and prayers. Over half were from my island friends! God has given me opportunities to share Him with others here. I hope to be home by the end of the month. Thank you all again! God has answered your prayers!

COMMUNITY NEWS

*** WICHP Hours are Tue. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wed. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Fridays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. WICHP at 920-847-2108

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Tuesday, March 28th 10:00 a.m. to Noon at Trinity Fellowship Hall.

*** Island Community Youth Choir Concert: Monday, March 27^th at 6:30 p.m. at Trinity. *** Congratulations to Alexandria and Ray McDonald on the birth of their daughter, Jaclyn Rose. Jaclyn was born in Sturgeon Bay on March 7^th, 2023. She weighs 7pounds 14 ounces, 19 1/2 inches. Maternal grandparents are Beatriz Anderson and the late Damon Anderson. Paternal grandparents are Paula and Jeffrey McDonald

Bethel Tidings Vol. 77 March 19th, 2023, No. 11

Posted on March 18, 2023March 15, 2023 by betheltidings

Pawns to Persons (from John 7:53-8:11)

There she was, accused of adultery. Caught in the act, she was paraded before all by her religious leaders. Not just shamed personally but humiliated publicly. How did they find two witnesses to this? Were they waiting for it to happen? If they knew about their affair, why not try to intervene before it happened? And where is her lover? Why wasn’t he there? Was not his act a violation of the Law as well?

And then she’s shoved before that guy. The one everyone is talking about. Either a deceitful manipulator or someone good, really good. With power and wisdom. They’re asking him for her fate. The Law of her faith says she’s to be stoned. The law of the land says they’re not allowed to do that any longer.

So that’s what this is about. It’s not about her at all. She’s nothing to them, just a pawn to trap the guy. Going either way discredits him. They don’t care about her soul, her morals, her existence. She’s a worthless pawn.

He takes his time to answer. And then he says it. “Yes, the Law of faith is right, so whoever is without sin can cast the first stone.” Which stops everyone. Everyone considers their own culpability here, and then quietly slip away. Except for him. He looks at her. She is noticed and regarded … and not condemned. He cautions her to reorient her life away from her sin. And she goes. A second chance at living and life. Valued after all.

And so are you.

Pastor Rick

CHURCH NEWS

*** If you have a need or know of someone in need, please call Janet Hanlin (920-535-0021), who represents Bethel’s Deacons. We can help!

*** The Giving Option is live on Bethel’s website: http://www.islandbethelchurch.com.

*** Sunday School: Mike Thielke continues a series looking at the issues and subjects in C.S. Lewis’ “Mere Christianity” at 9:30 a.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Sunday service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Pastor continues his series in John.

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage.

*** Ladies Bible Study: Memorial Hall, Thursday afternoons at 2:00 p.m. and Thursday evenings at 6:00 p.m. “Jesus in Me” by Anne Graham Lotz.

*** Book Club: This month’s book read is, “This Tender Land”, by William Kent Krueger. If you are interested in reading this book, contact Laura at the Library and she will get a book for you. The discussion as a group is March 20^th at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Bethel Builders will meet March 27^th at 2:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Mother Daughter Banquet planning is our main focus.

*** Mark Your Calendars Ladies: A Tea Party is scheduled for April 10^th at 6:00 p.m. at Bethel.

*** Mother Daughter Banquet will be May 12^th at 6:00 p.m.. The theme this year is “All in the Life of a Woman”. Mark your calendars for this fun evening.

*** We want to express our condolences to the family of Leroy Bass who died Monday, March 6^th, 2023, at the age of 98. Leroy was a pastor and missionary who passionately lived out his love for Jesus before whomever he saw. He is survived by his wife Dr. Majorie Bass and their children, Valerie, Vivian, Marvin, Gordon and Clifford and their spouses along with loads of grandchildren and great grandchildren. A service to remember and celebrate his life will be held in June. More details to come as they are available. We are both saddened at his passing and delighted that he is with his Blessed Lord and Savior.

*** If you’re interested in becoming a member of Bethel Church, let Pastor Rick, or any of the Elders know. The process is simple: an application, meet with the Elder Board and confess your faith in Jesus.*** from Phil & Sandy Green: “To our Bethel Church Family: Thank you very much for your prayers, cards, and support during Sandy’s recent illness. God performed many miracles in answer to your prayers without which she would be in heaven today. She is at the McPherson Healthand Rehab Center,1601 North Main Street, Room 21, McPherson, KS, 67460 until she can get strong enough to come home.

COMMUNITY NEWS

*** WICHP Hours are Tue. 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Wed. 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Fridays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. WICHP at 920-847-2108

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Sunday, March 19th 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Trinity Library.

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: Sunday, March 19th 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bethel Church Lobby.

*** Washington Island Lions Club are again selling “Roses For Spring”. They are $16.00 a dozen and will be delivered April 14^th &15^th. Orders need to be placed by March 23^rd.

*** Island Community Youth Choir Concert: Monday, March 27^th at 6:30 p.m. in the Trinity Fellowship Hall. The theme of the concert is “Destinations” and will feature a variety of selections, including sea chanteys such as “The Wellerman” and a piece from the musical, “Newsies”. The performance will highlight the many talents of our students and community members with solos, small groups, and instrumental accompaniment. All are welcome and no admission will be charged. We hope to see you there!