Bethel Tidings Vol. 76 July 3rd, 2022 No. 26

Equipped

     When I was in college, I played with a Civil War reenactment band that featured period instruments, clothes, and music. Those wool uniforms were pretty warm marching on July 4^th in downtown Milwaukee, but we looked and sounded like an authentic Civil War band. Clothing and appearance communicate something about who we are and what we’re doing. Not surprisingly, this holds true in our spiritual life as well.

     As Paul concludes his letter to the Ephesian Church, he paints a picture of living out Christian faith. Using the battle armor employed by Roman soldiers (helmet, belt, breastplate, shield, etc.) he indicates Christians have spiritual equipment that is similar (Eph. 6:10-24). Truth, Righteousness, Peace, Faith, Salvation and God’s Word, are utilized to face attacks we’re bound to get from, not flesh and blood, but powers, rulers and spiritual forces in the heavenlies. And as we “wear” these, we are enabled to stand up to those attacks.

     Our most powerful resource, however, is prayer. Praying for God to work is where our real power lies. We do not fight as the world fights, but with divine power to demolish strongholds (2 Cor 10:4).  Timothy Warner says prayer is vital in mission and not merely a supporting act. To “only be able to pray” he says, “is a like a soldier saying I don’t have a machine-gun or bazooka, all I have is an intercontinental ballistic missile.” The armor prepares us for the battle, but the battle is done on our knees. As you face trials and hardships, take it to the Lord in prayer.                         

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.

*** Saturday service at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Summer Sermon Series: We Believe – A series on the elemental beliefs of Christian faith.

*** Sunday school: “A Biblical Approach to Addressing Race Reconciliation” led by Dave Nehlsen. 9:30-10:30 AM. A look at why race has divided us, what is happening in our inner cities, and examining practical and biblical solutions.

*** Sunday service at 10:45 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Pastor Rick begins Summer Sermon Series: We Believe – A series on the elemental beliefs of Christian faith. This will be coordinated with the Children’s Church messages using the “Believe” curriculum by Randy Frazee, as well as incorporating our Free Church Statement of Faith. Week One: God – Part One

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are studying: Gentle and Lowly the Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers.

*** Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. “Fully Alive” with video from Ken Davis and discussion. Moving towards a life that draws from the joy and power that can only be found in Jesus. The series will run Wednesdays through August.

*** Bethel Church Youth Group meets Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Come for fellowship, fun, and food! Contact Pastor Rick for details.

*** Pastor Rick will be gone next week to drive his Mom from Arizona to Chicago.

*** SAVE THE DATE: Scandinavian luncheon, August 5th, Bethel Church.

*** Looking Ahead: Bethel church is offering a Ladies Retreat September 16th and 17th. Dee Brestin, well known author and speaker will be our keynote speaker and will draw from her book, The Jesus who Surprises. Watch for details on this exciting event.

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.

*** WICHP Food Pantry – 24/7 Food Access: Basic food staples are now available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from the WICHP office at Trinity Lutheran church.

*** Blood Pressure Clinic: July 12^th 10:00 a.m. to Noon in Trinity Hall. Blood Pressure Clinic: July 24th 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. in Trinity Hall.

Blood Pressure Clinic: July 24th 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bethel Church Lobby. Blood Pressure Clinic: July 26th 10:00 a.m. to Noon Trinity.

*** Lions Club Fly In fish boil at airport July 16^th.

*** Island Forum 2040: Thursday, August 25^th 7:00 p.m. “The Future of Island Churches”. Presented by Pastor Rick Smith from Bethel Church; Pastor Ed Baseman from Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church; and representatives from the Stella Maris Catholic Church, and the Baha’I Faith.

*** Death’s Door BBQ: the 10th Annual BBQ is scheduled for August 27^th. Stay tuned for more details as the summer unwinds.

*** Volunteer Work Day three volunteer spots opened up for our Saturday August 13^th “Explore Plum Island” Work Day.  Engage with guests as they explore the history, nature, and interpretive sites of the island. Assist staff by acting as walking tour guides, leading a take-away craft activity, and acting as historic site docents.  Visit our Events/Work Days Page. Click on the SignUpGenius button to sign-up and let us know if you have any questions! Link:   https://www.plumandpilot.org/eventswork-days.html

Bethel Tidings Vol. 76 June 26th, 2022 No. 25

The Reviled “S” Word

Several times while doing premarital counseling, the bride described her discomfort with the idea of a wife being submissive to her husband. It’s not a popular notion and for good reason. Some husbands have, in discovering this command to wives (Eph. 5:22), insisted their wives submit to them, lording their position over them. Some pastors have affirmed and taught such a perspective. After all, it’s right there in Scripture.

Such an approach, however, reveals horrible theological reflection and misses a key feature of God’s intention for marriages. Anyone who reads Paul’s words to husbands and wives (Eph. 5:21-33) sees that alongside the submission rule for wives is an even longer section on rules for husbands. The essence of those rules is for him to demonstrate love towards his wife in the same manner that Jesus demonstrated love for the church. He endured a brutal death to be able to bring his bride to God.

Chew on that for a while. Go ahead… I’ll wait.

Christian marriages are to be mutually supportive relationships that help both partners grow and deepen their relationship with God. Wives want their husbands to grow and flourish spiritually. Husbands want the same for their wives loving them as much as their own bodies. This is about about God’s plan for two becoming one (Gen. 2:24). Men, love your wives. Women, respect your husbands. And all believers, submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.              

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.

*** Saturday service at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Pastor Rick continues in Ephesians.

*** Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. This is the last week we’ll meet at 9:15 until later this fall. We continue this week with our survey of the Old Testament.

*** UPDATE: Sunday school Class June 26^th to August 7^th “A Biblical Approach to Addressing Race Reconciliation” led by Dave Nehlsen. 9:30-10:30 AM. A look at why race has divided us, what is happening in our inner cities, and examining practical and biblical solutions.

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

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are studying: Gentle and Lowly the Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers.

*** On Wednesday June 29^th, at 7 p.m., Pastor Rick introduces his summer series. This summer “Fully Alive” with video from Ken Davis and discussion. Moving towards a life that draws from the joy and power that can only be found in Jesus. The series will run Wednesdays through August.

*** Bethel Church Youth Group meets Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Come for fellowship, fun, and food! Contact Pastor Rick for details.

*** Memorial service: June 25^th for Dewey Jacobsen at the graveside.

*** SAVE THE DATE: Scandinavian luncheon, August 5th, Bethel Church.

*** Looking Ahead: Bethel church is offering a Ladies Retreat September 16th and 17th. Dee Brestin, well known author and speaker will be our keynote speaker and will draw from her book, The Jesus who Surprises. Watch for details on this exciting event.

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.

*** WICHP Food Pantry – 24/7 Food Access: Basic food staples are now available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from the WICHP office at Trinity Lutheran church.

*** WICHP blood pressure clinic 10:00 a.m. to noon at Trinity Fellowship Hall.

*** Art and Nature Center Opening Reception:

Saturday, June 25^th 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

*** Island Forum 2040: Thursday, August 25^th 7:00 p.m. “The Future of Island Churches”. Presented by Pastor Rick Smith from Bethel Church; Pastor Ed Baseman from Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church; and representatives from the Stella Maris Catholic Church, and the Baha’I Faith.

*** Death’s Door BBQ: the 10th Annual BBQ is scheduled for August 27^th. Stay tuned for more details as the summer unwinds.

*** Volunteer Work Day spots available: three volunteer spots just opened up for our Saturday August 13^th “Explore Plum Island” Work Day. 

Engage with guests as they explore the history, nature, and interpretive sites of the island. Assist staff by helping with set-up and take-down, acting as walking tour guides, leading a take-away craft activity, and acting as historic site docents.  Visit our Events/Work Days Page (link below) and click on the SignUpGenius button to sign-up and please let us know if you have any questions! Link to our Events/Work Days page:  https://www.plumandpilot.org/eventswork-days.html

Bethel Tidings Vol. 76 June 19th, 2022 No. 24

Walking or Limping

I’m often asked, “Are you limping?” I have a damaged knee which I often favor. So, I have to concentrate to walk correctly. If I don’t, other problems emerge in my hips and back. This didn’t make much sense to me, until I actually thought about it. When my walk is uneven, others parts work in ways they weren’t intended. If I think about it a bit more, there’s also a connection here to spiritual life.

When something is off in our lives, it has an effect. Sinful habits or attitudes affect our walk with God. So, when St. Paul writes that in believers’ lives there shouldn’t be even a hint of sexual immorality, impurity or coveting (Ephesians 5:3-14), he’s getting at how our living matches with our faith. If we say we honor God and others, do we do so in all areas of life? Our sex lives matter. God, who created humans (Genesis 1-2) also created sex giving it purpose and meaning.

Sex expresses love, brings about new life, and is pleasurable. So pleasurable in fact, God restricts it to committed relationships between man and wife. This isn’t to spoil a sport, but for our provision and protection. Sex is beautiful and intimate and tied to our personhood as physical and spiritual beings. The act brings about oneness. Yet used otherwise it deteriorates and is cheapened. Then emotionally, we’ll limp along, damaged and hurt. God knows this. And He also provides for healing and restoration as we return to walking with Him in body and soul.                                 

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.

*** Saturday service at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Pastor Rick continues in Ephesians.

*** Potluck following Saturday night service June 18^th. Bring a dish and friends to share it with!

*** Sunday School at 9:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. This is the last week we’ll meet at 9:15 until later this fall. We continue this week with our survey of the Old Testament.

*** UPDATE: Sunday school Class June 26^th to August 7^th “A Biblical Approach to Addressing Race Reconciliation” led by Dave Nehlsen. 9:30-10:30 AM. A look at why race has divided us, what is happening in our inner cities, and examining practical and biblical solutions.

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

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are studying: Gentle and Lowly the Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers.

*** On Wednesday June 29^th, at 7 p.m., Pastor Rick introduces his summer series. This summer “Fully Alive” with video from Ken Davis and discussion. Moving towards a life that draws from the joy and power that can only be found in Jesus. The series will run Wednesdays through August.

*** Bethel Church Youth Group meets Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Come for fellowship, fun, and food! Contact Pastor Rick for details.

*** Memorial services: June 18^th for Will Krueger at 1:00 p.m., John and Virginia Siedschlag at 1:00 p.m. and June 25^th for Dewey Jacobsen at the graveside.

*** Thank you for the generous gift from Walley and Alene Schwartz family in memory of the Gibson family’s 75^th anniversary!

*** Vacation Bible School is June 20^th through the 24^th. Command removable wall hooks to hang scenery; narrow clear glass bottles with lids or corks; clean white sand (silica?); Natural food coloring (not gel); googlie eyes; blank or clear CD disks; waterproof glue; brown twine; Plaster of Paris; water based paints; small polished stones; tiny plastic charms or crosses; plastic lids with pop open lids; 1 ½ – 2” diameter; large squarish clear containers with lids like the Costco nuts or bulk parmesan cheese come in.

VBS Volunteers Needed: Recreation workers. Prayer warriors!! Call Sharon Stultz with questions 920-847-2190.

*** Congratulations to Quentin and Amanda (Tuttle) Jensen on the birth of their daughter, Bexley Marie, born June 10^th. Bexley joins her older brother, Cashel who is very excited to meet her. Maternal grandparents are Jack and Kelly Tuttle. Paternal grandparents are Greg Jensen and Don and Glenna Riewe.

*** SAVE THE DATE: Scandinavian luncheon, August 5th, Bethel Church.

*** Looking Ahead: Bethel church is offering a Ladies Retreat September 16th and 17th. Dee Brestin, well known author and speaker will be our keynote speaker and will draw from her book, The Jesus who Surprises. Watch for details on this exciting event.

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.

*** Islanders lost to Kolberg 9-6 Sunday. Their current record: 4-2. Next game is at Jacksonport on the 19^th.

Bethel Tidings Vol. 76 June 12th, 2022 No. 23

Donut Day and Me

I don’t know how it happened, but my birthday, June 3, has become more than just a special day for me (and Zach Gunnlaugsson – 50 years my junior). It’s become a glorious day for everyone. It is, of course, now known as Donut Day (DD). What?!!! How fantastic is that? It’s as if the DD initiators thought, “What is the best day for donut day? Well, it’s a toss-up between Homer Simpson’s and Rick Smith’s birthday. Let’s go with Rick’s!” You may claim it happened another way, I’m sticking with that.

Discovering wonderful connections to your life is pretty fun. Now my donut connection might be a little superficial, there are other amazing connections for us that really matter. Prime among them is that we matter so much to God that He sent Jesus to help us get reconnected with Him. Every 1st weekend of the month at Bethel, we stop to remember what Jesus did for us by celebrating the Lord’s Supper. Every month we stop to remember that we are so loved that Jesus came and died for us so that we might be spiritually reborn. Our sins can be forgiven and we can boldly come to God and know Him! (Hebrews 4:14-16).

As we remember that, we remember, too, that we are encouraged to imitate God in our lives and walk in the way of love like Jesus did (Ephesians 5). In this way we can spend each day spreading God’s love to others. That’s even better than donut day!

 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.

*** Saturday service at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Pastor Rick continues in Ephesians.

*** Sunday school at 9:15 a.m. We continue to work through the Old Testament.

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

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are studying: Gentle and Lowly the Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers.

UPDATE: On Wednesday June 29^th, at 7 p.m., Pastor Rick introduces his summer series. This summer series will feature Ken Davis on living a lighthearted life. The series will run Wednesdays through August.

*** Bethel Church Youth Group meets Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Come for fellowship, fun, and food! Contact Pastor Rick for details.

*** Men’s breakfast Saturday June 11^th, 8:00 a.m. at Bethel’s Memorial Hall. Great fellowship for all men. Bring a friend!

*** Memorial services: June 18^th for Will Krueger at 1:00 p.m., John and Virginia Siedschlag at 1:00 p.m. and June 25^th for Dewey Jacobsen at the graveside.

*** Bethel Builders Ladies Night: June 13^th, 6:30 p.m. Memorial Hall. All Ladies are welcome and encouraged to attend.

*** UPDATE Vacation Bible School is June 20^th through the 24^th. Command removable wall hooks to hang scenery; narrow clear glass bottles with lids or corks; clean white sand (silica?); Natural food coloring (not gel); googlie eyes; blank or clear CD disks; waterproof glue; brown twine; Plaster of Paris; water based paints; small polished stones; tiny plastic charms or crosses; plastic lids with pop open lids; 1 ½ – 2” diameter; large squarish clear containers with lids like the Costco nuts or bulk parmesan cheese come in.

VBS Volunteers Needed: Recreation workers. Prayer warriors!! Call Sharon Stultz with questions 920-847-2190.

*** SAVE THE DATE: Scandinavian luncheon, August 5th, Bethel Church.

*** Looking Ahead: Bethel church is offering a Ladies Retreat September 16th and 17th. Dee Brestin, well known author and speaker will be our keynote speaker and will draw from her book, The Jesus who Surprises. Watch for details on this exciting event.

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.

*** New Service:  WICHP Food Pantry – 24/7 Food Access: Basic food staples are now available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from the WICHP help yourself, honor system Food Pantry. 

*** Our Islanders recorded a home win last Sunday!  Islanders 7. Egg Harbor 1. Our next game will be Sunday June 12^th, will be at Kolberg.

*** Herb and Marianna Gibson hosted their own West Harbor Resort’s 75th anniversary Sunday afternoon. It included a buffet supper, live music, and fireworks. Hundreds of people attended to congratulate and honor them and the prior Gibson generations. They had pictures on display and guests could walk through different areas of the resort. The property includes a stone west side beach and shore frontage on West Harbor. The weather cooperated perfectly with a sunny day and a light breeze. Thanks to the Gibson family for hosting the wonderful celebration!

Bethel Tidings Vol. 76 June 5th, 2022 No. 22

Put Me In Coach!

Right now, I’m helping coach little league baseball. At this level, coaching includes teaching how to throw, catch and hit along with game fundamentals. Under the guidance of the head coach, Chris, we tell them and show them what to do and how to do it. At some point, though, they have to do it. Chris and Sarah and I can all play, but that’s not our role. We’re on the sideline. They’re on the field.

That’s the basic idea St. Paul describes in how church leadership is supposed to work. In Ephesians 4:11-16, he indicates that Jesus gives leaders to the church – Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastor/Teachers. Those people are to equip believers to do works of service. Everyone has a role and part in ministry. The goal, then, is that everyone will grow and mature in their faith and come together in unity in the process.

So where are you in this process? Are you growing into a ministry role or are you releasing others into it? We’re all part of the process in some way. Oftentimes we are on both sides of the equation: Being equipped to serve a new venture while simultaneously helping others grow and develop their gifts and service. Even in our advanced years we have some valuable part to play. Mentoring younger believers may be part of it, but it may mean allowing someone to serve us with their gifts. So let’s get in the game, or coach someone up and get them out there.                                

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.

*** Saturday service at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Pastor Rick continues in Ephesians.

*** Sunday school at 9:15 a.m. We continue to work through the Old Testament.

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

*** UPDATE: No potluck lunch after Sunday service for the rest of the summer.

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are studying: Gentle and Lowly the Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers.

*** Bethel Church Youth Group meets Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Come for fellowship, fun, and food! Contact Pastor Rick for details.

*** Men’s breakfast Saturday June 11^th, 8:00 a.m. at Bethel’s Memorial Hall. Great fellowship for all men. Bring a friend!

*** Memorial services: June 8^th for Susan Rock at 2:00 p.m. at Bethel Church. Lunch to follow service. June 18^th for Wil Krueger in the morning, John and Virginia Siedschlag at 1:00 p.m. and June 25^th for Dewey Jacobsen at the graveside.

*** Bethel Builders Ladies Night: June 13^th, 6:30 p.m. Memorial Hall. All Ladies are welcome and encouraged to attend.

*** UPDATE Vacation Bible School is June 20^th through the 24^th. Command removab le wall hooks to hang scenery; narrow clear glass bottles with lids or corks; clean white sand (silica?); Natural food coloring (not gel); googlie eyes; blank or clear CD disks; water proof glue; brown twine; Plaster of Paris; water based paints; small polished stones; tiny plastic charms or crosses; plastic lids with pop open lids; 1 ½ – 2” diameter; large squarish clear containers with lids like the Costco nuts or bulk parmesan cheese come in.

VBS Volunteers Needed: 2 craft people for Tues. and Weds. A Bible Storyteller. Also, recreation workers. Prayer warriors!! Call Sharon Stultz with questions 920-847-2190.

*** SAVE THE DATE: Scandinavian luncheon, August 5th, Bethel Church.

*** Looking Ahead: Bethel church is offering a Ladies Retreat September 16th and 17th. Dee Brestin, well known author and speaker will be our keynote speaker and will draw from her book, The Jesus who Surprises. Watch for details on this exciting event.

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.

*** New Service:  WICHP Food Pantry – 24/7 Food Access: Basic food staples are now available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from the WICHP help yourself, honor system Food Pantry.  Shelves with basic food items may be found outside the Food Pantry in the basement of Trinity Lutheran Church.  Clients may enter the church through the back door and go down the stairs to find the shelves to the left at the bottom. This is a self-service pantry with no sign-up or registration required.

*** The Gibson Family invites you to an Open House celebrating 75 years of the Gibson Family at West Harbor Resort. Sunday, June 5^th, 4:30-??

*** Little League baseball has started. Home games June 3^rd, 10^th, and 17^th at 5:45 p.m.

*** Islanders crushed Maplewood last Sunday for the win, 20-3! Come out and support our islander baseball team this Sunday, June 5^th for their first home game of the season.

*** Lake Michigan is currently at 579 feet, 18 inches above the long-term average for April.

Bethel Tidings Vol. 76 May 29th, 2022 No. 21

Revealing a Mystery

I love the scene in The Karate Kid (1984) when, after 4 days of working around Mr. Miyagi’s house, Daniel-san feels ill-used. Instead of karate training he was doing housework. Then Mr. Miyagi stops him and demonstrates how every action in his work had a purpose. Whether it was waxing the cars, painting the fence and siding, or sanding the deck, each motion was training him to learn karate. What seemed exploitive gave way to reveal a plan.

Living a life of faith in God has moments like that for us too. We can wonder what God is doing and complain, only to discover he has a plan, after all. Paul discovered one of God’s mysteries was his plan for Gentiles (or non-Jews). After years of learning and training in Judaism, he discovered that God had a plan for all people to know Him, Jews and non-Jews. God sent Jesus to become the source for making the two into one (Ephesians 3:1-6). That mystery, unknown in previous generations, was revealed to Paul and other Christians (3:8-9).

Not only that, but God also planned that this new combination, known as “the church”, was to reveal God’s wisdom to all of creation. This sheds further light on the good works he has planned for believers (2:10). We have an eternally designed role to speak of, worship, and glorify God in this world, to people, rules and heavenly beings (3:10-11). You have a part in God’s plan, and always have had. Now that’s a mystery to reveal.     

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.

*** Saturday service at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Pastor Rick continues in Ephesians.

*** Sunday school at 9:15 a.m. We continue to work through the Old Testament.

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

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We are starting a new study: Gentle and Lowly the Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers.

*** Bethel Church Youth Group meets Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Come for fellowship, fun, and food! Contact Pastor Rick for details.

*** The American Legion Memorial Day service starts at 10:30 a.m. at Bethel Church. The roll call, prayers, taps and wreath laying will happen about 15 minutes after the end of the service at Bethel with a march/walk to the cemetery for those who are able.

*** Memorial services: June 8^th for Susan Rock at 2:00 p.m. at Bethel Church. Lunch to follow service. June 18^th for Wil Krueger in the morning, John and Virginia Siedschlag at 1:00 p.m. and June 25^th for Dewey Jacobsen at the graveside.

*** Bethel Builders Ladies Night: June 13^th, 6:30 p.m. Memorial Hall. All Ladies are welcome and encouraged to attend.

*** Vacation Bible School is June 20^th through the 24^th. We need the following donations: broken umbrellas, long cardboard, carpet tubes, heavy cardboard concrete forms, fake palms or fronds, large green poster board, oversized cardboard boxes (appliance), small seashells, beach glass, clean sand, bulk Elmer’s glue, Dry erase markers, water balloons, tropical themed decorations, tiny battery, tea lights, glow sticks, brown packing paper. VBS Volunteers Needed: Audio Video techie to download Youtube videos, cue videos, sounds, and songs for opening and closing sessions. 2 strong men to move a 6’ wooden lighthouse to church. Prayer warriors!! Call Sharon Stultz with questions 920-847-2190.

*** Thank you to the sponsors of the concert and those attending for bringing Mac Powell to the Island. Mac did not disappoint. His mixture of selections from his new album (New Creation), old Third Day songs, and well-known hymns was a blessing to all who attended. His personal message hit all the right notes and lit the soul where it meant the most for young and old alike.

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.

*** New Service:  WICHP Food Pantry – 24/7 Food Access: Basic food staples are now available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from the WICHP help yourself, honor system Food Pantry.  Shelves with basic food items may be found outside the Food Pantry in the basement of Trinity Lutheran Church.  Clients may enter the church through the back door and go down the stairs to find the shelves to the left at the bottom. This is a self-service pantry with no sign-up or registration required.

*** Blood Pressure Clinic, Tuesday May 31st 10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon, WICHP/Trinity Fellowship Hall

*** The Gibson Family invites you to an Open House celebrating 75 years of the Gibson Family at West Harbor Resort. Sunday, June 5^th, 4:30-??

*** Little League baseball has started. Home games are Monday May 30^th at 2 p.m. and June 3^rd, 10^th, and 17^th at 5:45 p.m.

*** Islanders lost at Sister Bay Sunday 1-6.

Bethel Tidings Vol. 76 May 22nd, 2022 No. 20

No More Outsiders

I like the Cubs, always have. This annoys my friend Christian. He hates the Cubs. He cheers for the Brewers and whoever plays the Cubs. And he loves mentioning when his Brewers defeat “my” Cubs. I understand him, though. I feel the same way about my friend Don Baker and “his” St. Louis Cardinals.

We do make tribes and allegiances, don’t we? Which is what happened, more seriously, as the church of Jesus began to develop. As non-Jewish men and women joined the fellowship, tension existed between them and those who came from Jewish roots. There were derogatory comments with some insisting that any who joined the fellowship go through all the required Jewish rites. St. Paul, however, despite his Jewish upbringing, argued against that, insisting that God welcomed the non-Jews (or Gentiles) through receiving and confessing Jesus as their Lord. And then he went a step further.

In his letter to the church in Ephesus, Paul wrote that not only were the Gentiles welcome, they, along with the Jews were being built into a unified community (Ephesian 2:11-22). Using 3 word-pictures – citizenship, family and a holy temple – Paul asserted that God was building one community out of the two. Both were equally welcomed based on the cornerstone of Jesus and the preaching of the apostles and prophets. And that welcome continues. No matter what you’ve done, your ethnicity, your intellect, or whatever, you’re welcome to turn to Jesus and not just be there but be part of God’s Church.                                              

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!

*** Saturday service at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Pastor Rick continues in Ephesians.

*** Saturday night Potluck after Saturday’s service May 21^st. Bring a dish to pass and friends to share it with!

*** Sunday school at 9:15 a.m. We continue to work through the Old Testament.

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

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

*** Lady’s Bible study will reconvene in September.

*** Bethel Church Youth Group meets Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Come for fellowship, fun, and food! Contact Pastor Rick for details.

*** Book Club read for May: “The Butler” by Wil Haygood. The next discussion will be May 23^rd in Memorial Hall.

*** UPDATE: Our annual spring workday at church is on Saturday, May 21^st, at 9:00 a.m.

*** Mac Powell, lead singer for the Christian band, Third Day will be at the TPAC May 22^nd.  Tickets now on sale at the TPAC website. Let’s share this opportunity with our families and friends. There is a late boat leaving the Island after the concert to accommodate those attending from off Island.

*** The American Legion Memorial Day service starts at 10:30 a.m. at Bethel Church. The roll call, prayers, taps and wreath laying will happen about 15 minutes after the end of the service at Bethel with a march/walk to the cemetery for those who are able.

*** Memorial services: June 8^th for Susan Rock at 2:00 p.m. at Bethel Church. June 18^th for Wil Krueger in the morning, John and Virginia Siedschlag at 1:00 p.m. and June 25^th for Dewey Jacobsen at the graveside.

*** Bethel Builders Ladies Night: June 13^th, 6:30 p.m. Memorial Hall. All Ladies are welcome and encouraged to attend.

*** Vacation Bible School is June 20^th through the 24^th. We need the following donations:

broken umbrellas, long cardboard, carpet tubes,

heavy cardboard concrete forms, fake palms or fronds, large green poster board, oversized cardboard boxes (appliance), small seashells, beach glass, clean sand, bulk Elmer’s glue, Dry erase markers, water balloons, tropical themed decorations, tiny battery, tea lights, glow sticks, brown packing paper. VBS Volunteers Needed: Audio Video techie to download Youtube videos, cue videos, sounds, and songs for opening and closing sessions. 2 strong men to move a 6’ wooden lighthouse to church. Prayer warriors!! Call Sharon Stultz with questions 920-847-2190.

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.

*** A celebration of Tom Noonan’s life and music will be held on Saturday afternoon, May 21st, from 3 to 5pm at Nelsen’s Hall on Washington Island. The community is invited.

*** Blood Pressure Clinic, Sunday May 22^nd 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. Trinity Library.

*** Blood Pressure Clinic, Sunday May 22^nd 11:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Bethel Church Lobby

*** Baccalaureate is scheduled for Wednesday May 25^th at Trinity Church.

*** Gibson Family Open House at Gibson’s West Harbor Resort. June 5^th starting at 4:30 p.m. Food. Music. Fireworks.

*** Little League baseball has started. Home games are Monday May 30^th at 2 p.m. and June 3^rd, 10^th, and 17^th at 5:45 p.m.

Bethel Tidings Vol. 76 May 15th, 2022 No. 19

The Way We Were (and are now)

Nostalgia. It paints a picture of a wonderful past. The old days, how things were, they’re cherished memories. The new? Not so much. Yet not everything about our past was truly so great, was it? Barbara Streisand’s song “The Way We Were” celebrates those memories. But then there’s this telling, defining stanza: “Memories, May be beautiful and yet, What’s too painful to remember, We simply to choose to forget.” A selective memory seems at play here.

When St. Paul writes about life and faith, he addresses our troubled pasts. In his letter to the church in Ephesus, he notes, at one time, we were caught in horrible patterns of sin, selfishness, and the influence of forces that were anything but good (Eph 2:1-4). The way we were was spiritual deadness. And in that inescapable setting, God’s intervention made a difference. “God made us alive” he says, through the death and resurrection of Jesus (2:5). And the glorious part of our life is now, precisely because things have changed. Jesus raised us out of the mess of our past (2:6-7).

Now certainly, very good things have happened in the past. And life today is challenging, to say the least. But it is into today’s world God has chosen to place us. His grace, not our goodness, has saved us (2:8-9). And that grace continues to mold and shape us for a purpose and destiny: His work (2:10). Live this day in faith and hope because God’s love is at work in 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!

*** Saturday service at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Pastor Rick continues in Ephesians.

*** Sunday school at 9:15 a.m. We continue to work through the Old Testament.

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

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We’re finishing Esther.

*** Lady’s Bible study will reconvene in September.

*** Bethel Church Youth Group meets Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Come for fellowship, fun, and food! Contact Michelle Jordan for details 920-535-0081.

*** Book Club read for May: “The Butler” by Wil Haygood. If you are interested in reading this book, call Laura at the Library to order one. The next discussion will be May 23^rd in Memorial Hall.

*** Men’s Breakfast Saturday, May 14^th in Memorial Hall starting at 8:00 a.m. Bring a friend and enjoy some great food and fellowship.

*** UPDATE: Our annual spring workday at church is on Saturday, May 21^st, at 9:00 a.m. There are many projects indoors and out. Work for an hour or two or all day! As the saying goes, many hands make light work.

*** Bethel’s Mother Daughter Banquet was a wonderfully fun evening with great food and entertainment. The Bethel Builders Ladies would like to give a special thanks to Jeannie Gunnlaugsson, Denise Kellermann, Donna Russell, Leila Nehlsen, and Dick Tobey, for their leadership in making the evening such fun. The food, program, decorations, and all the volunteers helping made the banquet memorable and fun. Thank you to all the ladies and children for supporting this event.

*** Mac Powell, lead singer for the Christian band, Third Day will be at the TPAC May 22^nd.  Tickets now on sale at the TPAC website. Let’s share this opportunity with our families and friends. There is a late boat leaving the Island after the concert to accommodate those attending from off Island.

*** Thank you to Bev Cook for her generous gift to the church in memory of Tom Cook and Jack Young.

*** Memorial Day Service: We will be hosting the Memorial Day service May 30^th at Bethel.

*** Graveside memorial services: June 8^th for Susan Rock. June 18^th for Wil Krueger, John and Virgiania Siedschlag. June 25^th for Dewey Jacobsen.

*** Bethel Builders Ladies Night: June 13^th, 6:30 p.m. Memorial Hall. All Ladies are welcome and encouraged to attend.

*** SAVE THE DATE: Scandinavian luncheon, August 5^th, Bethel Church.

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 17^th 10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon. WICHP/Trinity Fellowship Hall.

*** Door County Public Health COVID Vaccine Clinic: Washington Island Community Center – Rutledge Room on Thursday, May 19^th, from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Appointments Required 920-746-2234

*** A celebration of Tom Noonan’s life and music will be held on Saturday afternoon, May 21^st, at Nelsen’s Hall on Washington Island. The community is invited.

*** Congrats to the Islanders on their 1^st victory!

Bethel Tidings Vol. 76 May 8th, 2022 No. 18

Comforted by Another’s Mess

Doug is one of the most solid guys I know. As a cowboy, connected to the land, and Christian, connected to God, his view of life and humanity has such clarity.  I’ve often been blown away at the basic, simple wisdom he dispenses so naturally. I wonder how I miss things he grasps so well and expresses so succinctly. I think highly of him as a brother and friend.

But Doug isn’t perfect. In recent years he’s admitted to an addiction that cost him thousands and placed tremendous stress on his marriage. He bought an airplane. OK, hardly a sin in its own right, but as he explained how dedicated he’d become to it, the impact it’d had on his time and his marriage, I was startled. And comforted.

That sounds wrong. But in hearing his confession, I felt like I wasn’t alone in allowing something to get hold of me and needing to reorient my priorities and place Jesus back as the Lord of my life. This is our common human struggle. I’m not the only one.

In his letter to Ephesus, St. Paul prays for the believers to receive the Spirit of wisdom and revelation so that they would know the hope of their calling, that God considers them his rich inheritance, and that they have God’s power working in and for them (Eph 1:15-23). He wants them to grasp how much God has for them, and for us. We might not be right just yet. But God has a destiny for us that’s awesome. So don’t lose heart!                                                              

Pastor Rick

CHURCH NEWS

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

*** 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!

*** Saturday service at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Pastor Rick continues in Ephesians.

*** Sunday school at 9:15 a.m. We continue to work through the Old Testament.

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

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We’re working through Esther.

*** Lady’s Bible study will reconvene in September.

*** Bethel Church Youth Group meets Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Come for fellowship, fun, and food! Contact Michelle Jordan for details 920-535-0081.

*** Book Club read for May: “The Butler” by Wil Haygood. If you are interested in reading this book, call Laura at the Library to order one. The next discussion will be May 23^rd in Memorial Hall.

*** Men’s Breakfast Saturday, May 14^th in Memorial Hall starting at 8:00 a.m. Bring a friend and enjoy some great food and fellowship.

*** Mac Powell, lead singer for the Christian band, Third Day will be at the TPAC May 22^nd.  Tickets now on sale at the TPAC website. Let’s share this opportunity with our families and friends. There is a late boat leaving the Island after the concert to accommodate those attending from off Island.

*** Looking Ahead: Bethel church is offering a Ladies Retreat September 16^th and 17^th. Dee Brestin, well known author and speaker, will be our keynote speaker and will draw from her book, The Jesus who Surprises. Watch for details on this exciting event.

*** Memorial Day Service: We will be hosting the Memorial Day service May 30^th at Bethel.

*** Graveside memorial services: June 8^th for Susan Rock. June 18^th for Wil Krueger, John and Virgiania Siedschlag. June 25^th for Dewey Jacobsen.

*** Marion Boniface says, “Stop in and visit, write, or call. My new address is”: Marion Boniface, 2311 Meadow Wood Dr. # 202, Sister Bay, WI 54234. Phone number 920- 854-6545.

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.

*** Foot Care Clinic: Wednesday, May 11^th 10:30-11:30 a.m. and 1:00-3:00 p.m, Trinity Fellowship Hall (Appointments needed, call WICHP 920-847-2108)

*** Free Children’s Fluoride Varnishing Clinic: Wednesday, May 11^th, 10:00-11:15 a.m. at Washington Island School.

*** Adult Fluoride Varnishing Clinic: Wednesday. May 11^th, 1:00-3:00 p.m. Trinity Fellowship Hall (Appointments needed, call WICHP 920-847-2108).

*** Blood Pressure Clinic, Tuesday, May 17^th 10:00 a.m. to 12 Noon. WICHP/Trinity Fellowship Hall.

*** Island art students are included in the Miller Art Center Salon of School Art on display through May 23^rd. View at the Miller Art Center in Sturgeon Bay. Entries include over 100 items of diverse media from students in Door County.

*** The Spring Lighthouse Festival is June 10^th through the 12^th and is sponsored by the Door County Maritime Museum and Lighthouse Preservation Society, Inc. You can find more info at their website: https//dcmm.org.

Bethel Tidings Vol. 76 May 1st, 2022 No. 17

Lessons from Desert Times

Last week I was in Arizona, seeing my mom and several friends. I return reflecting on life’s twists and turns. I have great memories of pastoring in Sonoita. As my introduction to rural life, it was a beautiful connection of my gifts and passions played out in a hope-filled, emerging ministry. I loved the land and the people and made solid relationships with men and women that last to this day.

But along with lasting memories, time moves on and there’ve been losses. Dear men and women have passed on, the ministry I was a part of is struggling, friends have been falsely maligned. What a mess. Covid, cancer and conflict, talk about an unwelcome trinity. It’s all so earthy. In the moment, it’s easy to feel desperate and crushed.

In this light, Dave Lynden spoke this week, from Ephesians 1, of discovering a 30,000-foot perspective for our faith. Stepping back and seeing God’s work in total can help orient us in the midst of pain. Alongside our turmoil, blessings are there in Christ in heavenly places, even if they seem absent in the earthy things we are experiencing (Ephesians 1:3). Losses are not dismissed but are placed next to the lavish love and promise of the new life that is before us through Jesus (1:7, 11). In this larger outlook, hope and endurance can reenter our mindset, buoyed with God’s guarantee of better things to come (1:14). And such hope can be refreshing, despite the deserts we are in.

 Pastor Rick

CHURCH NEWS

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

*** 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!

*** Saturday service at 6:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Pastor Rick continues in Ephesians.

*** Sunday school at 9:15 a.m. We continue to work through the Old Testament.

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

*** Potluck Sunday May 1^st after morning service. Bring a dish to pass and friends to share it with.

*** Tuesday night Adult Connect Group will be meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the parsonage. We’re working through Esther.

*** Lady’s Bible study Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. We will be reading a book by Sharon Jaynes called, “The Power of Women’s Words”.

*** Bethel Church Youth Group meets Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Come for fellowship, fun, and food! Contact Michelle Jordan for details 920-535-0081.

*** Book Club read for May: “The Butler” by Wil Haywood. If you are interested in reading this book, call Laura at the Library to order one. The next discussion will be May 23^rd in Memorial Hall.

*** Bethel Builders meets Monday, May 2^nd, at 2:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall. Planning for Mother Daughter Banquet will be finalized.

*** UPDATE: Leadership Council meeting Monday, May 2^nd at 7:00 p.m. in Memorial Hall.

*** Mother Daughter Banquet Friday May 6^th. If you don’t have a mother or a daughter bring a friend, adopt a mother or daughter for the evening. The theme this year is, Through the Decades. There will be a fashion show.Decades will begin in 1960 through the present. If you’d like to dress in attire from your favorite decade, please do so. Reservations for banquet available. Contact Marianna at 920-847-2225.

*** Mac Powell, lead singer for the Christian Band, Third Day will be at the TPAC May 22.  Tickets now on sale at the TPAC website

*** Marion Boniface says, “Stop in and visit, write, or call. My new address is”: Marion Boniface, 2311 Meadow Wood Dr. # 202, Sister Bay, WI 54234. Phone number 920- 854-6545.

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: Friday, May 6^th   10:00-11:30 a.m.  WICHP Office/Trinity Fellowship Hall.

*** Foot Care Clinic: Wednesday, May 11^th  10:30-11:30 a.m. and 1:00-3:00 p.m,  Trinity Fellowship Hall (Appointments needed, call WICHP 920-847-2108)

*** Children’s Fluoride Varnishing Clinic: Wednesday, May 11^th, 10:00-11:15 a.m. at Washington Island School.

*** Adult Fluoride Varnishing Clinic: Wednesday. May 11^th, 1:00-3:00 p.m. Trinity Fellowship Hall (Appointments needed, call WICHP 920-847-2108)

*** Island art students are included in the Miller Art Center Salon of School Art on display through May 23^rd. View at the Miller Art Center in Sturgeon Bay. Entries include over 100 items of diverse media from students in Door County.

*** Congratulations to Sarah and Aaron Cornell on the birth of Evalynn Eileen Marjorie Cornell. She was born April 20^th.Maternal grandparents are David and Christine Anderson. Paternal grandparents are Eileen and the late Rodney Cornell.