Author: SF
Date: 2012-06-18

The Newsletter of Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church
(The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod)

Bethlehem Star p

1515 South Loop 256
Palestine, TEXAS 75801
Rev. David L. Adler, Pastor

JANUARY 2017
(903) 729-6362

BETHLEHEM LUTHERAN CHURCH MISSION STATEMENT: Steadfast in the Word, Bethlehem Lutheran Church shares Christ and serves people with friendship in His love in all God’s world.
Steadfast in the Word, Bethlehem Lutheran Church shares Christ and serves people with friendship in His love in all God’s world.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance, fellow sojourners!
On Sunday, January 1, we will observe the Epiphany of our Lord in the first Divine Service of 2017. The theme focuses on the fact that Gentile Wise Men came to Worship the Infant Jewish Messiah, Jesus.
In 37+ years of pastoral ministry I have been increasingly concerned about “christians” who do not value regular Worship. That said, there is also concern for those who do go to church, but are just going through the motions and don’t really honor God or His Word. I’ve seen everything from indifference to brazen chatting and joking around during the reading of Holy Scripture … it makes one wonder, why is God’s Word held in such low regard? And when one sees the kind of things non-churched people do when they do go to church on special occasions (e.g., Christmas, Easter, Baptisms, Weddings), one knows they haven't a clue about what’s going on … why we worship, who we worship, and showing courtesy to others in worship. And now we have LC-MS Pastors who allow incredibly inappropriate behavior like applause (when did anything in Worship become performance?) and flash photography. I believe the evidence shows my concern is well-founded. So, this month, I’d like to share an article about orthodox liturgy by the sainted Rev. Dr. Walter Bouman.
WHAT IS LUTHERAN WORSHIP?
“The orthodox liturgy of the Christian people is not a utilitarian activity. As Stanley Hauerwas has indicated, "Worship is to be done for its own sake, because we need to do it. In this respect it is like family or art. One definition of evil is to use things for some other purpose. Worship is perverted when it is a means to an end." This means that we do not worship in order to serve evangelism, enhance church growth, or improve stewardship, important as these dimensions may be. Nor do we worship in order to serve our personal needs, feel good, get practical advise, be inspired or motivated. Nor do we worship in order to facilitate the liberation of the oppressed or to further ethical causes and programs, essential as they are. We worship because God encounters us to be received, believed, praised, and addressed in prayer. We worship because there God promises to be present and available in proclamation and meal. Because there we receive that gift which identifies us with Jesus and Messiah, and makes us participants in his way of being in the world by opening to us the new and final destiny of history.
“The orthodox liturgy of the Christian people is grounded in the Gospel: Jesus is risen; death does not have the last word. Now the Kingdom of God is the final destiny for each of us and for the whole world (1 Cor. 15:20-28). Hence the liturgy is what Jesus commands his disciples to do; and he promises to be present.
“Because the Kingdom of God is both already present and not yet consummated on earth, the church exists both as gathered and as scattered. The orthodox liturgy of the gathered Christian people makes us a visible sign of the Kingdom of God.
“Until the consummation of the Kingdom of God, the Christian people will be scattered each week and sent into a world which is often still functioning as an anachronism; it does not yet believe that Christ is risen, that death does not have the last word, and that there is more to do with our lives than protect them at the expense of others. The orthodox liturgy of the gathered Christian people can set them free for faithful living and witness in the "liturgy after the liturgy" (Carter Lindberg). Above all, the orthodox liturgy of the gathered Christian people requires the "ownership" of the people. The liturgy is not orthodox if it is the performance of a few before an audience of many. The gathered Christian people are called to be the subjects of the liturgy so that the Kingdom of God happens. If they can own the rites of the liturgy, they will be protected from the temptation of fads, and from teaching and preaching that betrays the Kingdom of God. Orthodox liturgy is the end of that clericalism which makes spectators of the Christian people and the end of apathy. It is the beginning of active discipleship. “
At the beginning of 2017, we have another opportunity to re-dedicate ourselves to Worship in spirit and in truth.
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I look forward to seeing you each Sunday morning … worshipping and studying with you … lifting up and exalting our great God with you! Bring your own Study Bible and a pencil for note-taking, broadening your Bible knowledge, and deepening your personal relationship with Christ (He loves you so much!). Also, come with a smile, a skip in your step, and that friend you personally and intentionally invited. Also, bring a joyful, eager attitude to be touched by the Risen Christ, together with a hungry heart for spiritual vitality and victorious living that comes each time we encounter God’s renewing presence in Word and Sacrament!
mkeyle[} m/l+v (Peace [Shalom] be with you)
+ + +
I look forward to seeing you each Sunday morning … worshiping and studying with you … lifting up and exalting our great God with you! Come with a smile on your face, a bounce in your step, your Bible in hand, and that friend you personally and intentionally invited. Also, bring a joyful, eager attitude to be touched by the Living Risen Christ, together with a hungry heart for spiritual vitality and victorious living that comes each time we encounter God’s renewing presence in Word & Sacrament!
mkeyle[} m/l+v
(Peace [Shalom] be with you)

Church Happenings …

CHILI FRIDAY
JANUARY 27TH 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Our Annual Chili Friday will be held on Friday, January 27th from 11:oo a.m. until 7:00 p.m. There are many opportunities for service: early ticket sales, purchasing supplies, setup and take down, dishwashing, preparing desserts, decorating, deliveries, etc. We also need SILENT AUCTION items such as donations of gift cards (restaurants, Lowes, Wal Mart, Subway, etc.), crafts, appliances and tools (new or slightly used), services, cookies, fruit/candy/gift baskets, anything that we can auction off. Proceeds will go to Hope Station. Please talk to Megan about how you can assist.

To everyone who helped with our Christmas meal! And also thank you to Don and Lori Fortner for procuring our tree and to all of those who helped decorate for Christmas. What a great group of volunteers!!

CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS
Rev & Peggy Adler, Jeff & DeAnne Atkinson, Jody & Mary Bowden, Jim & Neva Broad, Gil & Mary Lou Daughtrey (2), Don & Lori Fortner, Burl & Debbie Gruetzner, Devin & Melanie Jackson, Dot James, George & Betty Nelson, Chaplain & Betty Ristvedt, Dean & Lela Sands, Marjorie Smith, Paul & Pat Stephenson, Paul & Jo Ann Tugwell, Steve & Mary Unk and Liz Vernon

If you missed a Sunday, you can visit Bethlehem’s web-site at www.belctx.org to hear past sermons.

ALASKA TRIP SEPTEMBER 2017
Ray and Donna Hughes are looking at an 11-12 day cruise and train/land tour in Alaska September 2017. What an exciting way to experience the wonder of God’s majestic world! Are you interested in joining us??

More notes from our LWML Bazaar: We wish to thank Pastor Adler for cooking the BBQ this year. Also, our thanks to Ray Hughes for his many years of cooking BBQ (a big round of applause)! In addition, Chuck Stanton of Elkhart Pharmacy donated hundreds of greeting cards to LWML; these have been sorted and are available for a donation to Mites.
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LWML members all over the country were challenged to participate in “Giving Tuesday” on Tuesday, November 29, 2016, to share Christ’s Love with the Nations! This day was designated for the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, taking the focus off the commercialism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday – and instead celebrates giving back -- supporting and praying for the LWML Mission Goal by reaching out to the hurting, helpless and unbelieving people throughout the world.
Because of those who participated, $23,270 for MITES (plus $10,000 in matching funds) was raised in a single day! Our society donated $50.00 for this effort.
The Advent Meal on Wed., November 30, was provided by our LWML; we give thanks for those who participated.
Saturday, Dec. 3, was designated for cleanup in our LWML room and closet. Gold stars go to JoAnn Tugwell, Lana Bowden, and Donna Hughes for their efforts in organizing.
LWML Fun Day, Sat., Dec. 10, trip to Catfish Row, Jacksonville. It was a cold day, but fun for the seven ladies who enjoyed shopping and lunch at Posadas.
In response to Gatlinburg, TN, fires, we donated $50.00 to be used wherever needed.
Veterans Angel Tree, collecting socks, gloves, hats, house shoes, blankets, personal hygiene items, sweat pants and sweat shirts to be delivered after Dec. 9.
Gathering socks for seniors, until Dec. 18, to deliver to Palestine Regional Medical Center and will be distributed by volunteers.
Blessing Bags – filling large Ziploc bags with small items to give to those on the streets.
ARE YOU SENDING CARDS FOR THE SEASON? Do you have any cards you won’t be using?
Remember we are collecting CARD FRONTS. Gather all kinds of greeting cards.
(Please note: Because of copyright laws, Hallmark, Disney or American Greetings cards will NOT be accepted.) Place them into the collection box in Garber Hall. (OR you may bring whole cards and someone will trim them.)
Be sure to use your Kroger card for your holiday purchases! Kroger’s “Community Rewards” Program: We appreciate your efforts since we use these funds for our various projects. Any questions, contact Donna Hughes.
Mark your calendar
Next LWML meeting is planned for Jan. 8, immediately after church.
January 27, 2017 – ANNUAL CHILI FRIDAY – church-wide effort! How will you help??
Our society is open to all women of Bethlehem. We usually meet after church on the second Sunday of the month. There are no dues, but we collect donations for MITES and for our general fund. The Annual Bazaar is our major fundraiser.
Web site http://lwmltxdist.org Serve the Lord with gladness! Psalm 100:2
Web site http://lwmltxdist.org Serve the Lord with gladness! Psalm 100:2
Web site: http://lwmltxdist.org Serve the Lord with gladness! Psalm 100:2
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Next LWML meeting September 18th after church.
LWML Zone Fall Rally – Tentative date Oct. 1, at Faith Lutheran, Corsicana. Discussion of BYLAWS, Standing Rules, & Guidelines for East Texas Zone Events. Watch for more details.
LWML Sunday, October 2, 2016, at Bethlehem
Our society is open to all women of Bethlehem. We usually meet after church on the second Sunday of the month. There are no dues, but we collect donations for MITES and for our general fund. The Annual Bazaar is our major fundraiser. Why do we meet together? The LWML in Texas creates opportunities for Lutheran women to become more aware of the need for outreach to people around them as they are in need of the words of hope that are valid only in Christ.
Web site: http://lwmltxdist.org Serve the Lord with gladness! Psalm 100:2
Web site: http://lwmltxdist.org Serve the Lord with gladness! Psalm 100:2
Web site http: //lwmltxdist.org Serve the Lord with gladness! Psalm 100:2

EVANGELISM COMMITTEE
Merry Christmas to all. I pray we all will have a blessed and prosperous New Year!
Our Adopt-A-Highway cleanup was held on Saturday, November 19, 2016. We had approximately 28 volunteers participate, finished in 1.5 hours and picked up 24 bags of trash. Thanks to all of you! Although our next cleanup would normally be in February, we may postpone it until the Great Texas Trash-Off on April 8, 2017. We will keep you informed.
We have our third church sign ready for installation. Please contact Paul Stephenson or Don Fortner to see how you can help.
We are placing another order for the small Gospel of John. As a reminder, when we receive them, please pick up a handful and distribute them to people in the places you frequent. Just offer it as a gift, invite them to church and ask if they have any prayer requests. Easily done as you are checking out for instance. Thanks for your help!
We are working in conjunction with the LWML to distribute “hospitality” bags to needy people in our community. We will keep you updated.
We are continuing work on a potential disaster recovery effort involving Bethlehem. Again, we will keep you informed.
Please feel free to attend our meetings, (membership not required). We are always looking for constructive input.
Please continue to pray for us that we would do God’s work to his glory!

Becoming an Inviting Church . . . externally focused
As followers of Jesus we have some unique opportunities to invite others to worship.
If you were unchurched and thinking about ‘returning’ to the Lord and His Church, would you consider …
a PEOPLE CHURCH that concentrates on relationships more than property?
a TEACHING CHURCH that holds to Biblical, Lutheran theology and yet is flexible in its customs?
an OUTREACH CHURCH that focuses on people, beyond the membership, who are in need of God?
a DELEGATING CHURCH that empowers people for meaningful service that goes beyond organizational activity?
a RELEVANT CHURCH that relates the Bible to life as it is now, not merely as it ‘ought to be’?
a HOPEFUL CHURCH that focuses on hope in Christ for the future not the failures of the past?
a GENEROUS CHURCH that cares for its community and world, not only itself?
How about your unchurched, wandering friend? Will you invite him/her? What will you do to insure that Bethlehem becomes an inviting church?

KIDS KORNER

On December 2nd, 3rd, & 4th Christopher and Kristen Harris participated in a JOAD (Junior Olympic Archery Development) Tournament at Texas A & M in College Station and both placed in the top ten.
In addition both participated in UIL. Kristen took 1st. in Ready Writing and 2nd place in Science. Christopher participated in Calculator and the results have not yet been released.
On Dec 23rd BLC youth went caroling to different church's members houses and the nursing homes. Also, the same day, they had a fun trip to the Studio-Movie-Grill in Tyler as a Christmas celebration.
Do you have any after Christmas clean up that needs done? Project “Rent a Youth” is going on until May. Fill out the application included in the newsletter or see Yanneth Harris for more information.
The Youth are collecting used cell phones and ink cartridges. Some of these phones are send to the 911 Cell Phone Bank, a company that turns retired cell phones into emergency 911 phones to benefit senior citizens and victims of abuse nationwide . We would like to encourage our BLC community to support this program and to involve your coworkers, family members, etc. to participate as well.

WE WANT TO RECOGNIZE THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF OUR TALENTED KIDS! Please submit pictures and write-ups to Yanneth Harris or the church office.

RENT - A -YOUTH
PROJECT / FUNDRAISER
Do you have some snow shoveling (well, maybe not this year) yard work or spring cleaning that needs to be done?
How about technology mentoring, child care, painting, planting, raking, mowing, window washing, decorating Christmas trees, putting up Christmas decorations or help getting ready for a garage sale? You name it, we have someone who can do it! BLC Youth group are ready, willing and able to do any and all odd jobs.
This project provides an opportunity for middle and high school students, (grades 6 through 12), to assist older adults in completing routine light-duty household chores. However the goal of the Rent-A-Youth project is not only to get an important job done, or to assist young people in acquiring a valuable sense of responsibility and self -confidence, but also to foster fellowship between older adults and the youth in our church.
If you have a job that you’d like to have done, please fill out this form and drop it by the office or give to Yanneth Harris. This fundraiser will be operating From November thru May
Please specify the type of work, how many people you want, how long you think it will take, and when you would like to have it done (please give at least 1 week notice, but the further ahead the better.)
Rent-A-Youth Coordinator: Yanneth Harris email: yatoruiz@yahoo.com
____________________________________________________________________________________ Rent-A-Youth Worker Request
Name: __________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________________
Phone Number: __________________________________________
Description of job: ______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
Number of workers needed: __________
Tentative Project Start Date: ____________________ Confirmed Project Start Date___________________
Tentative Project Completion Date: _______________ Confirmed Project Completion Date: _____________
Workers assigned to this project: ________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
Youth Director Name/Signature: _________________________/_________________________
Parent Name/Signature: _________________________/________

How are Christians to honor God’s gift of life in a world of constantly-changing medical technology, physician-assisted suicide laws, and health insurance and financial constraints? The upcoming Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS) Texas District Circuit #14 Retreat will attempt to offer some answers under the theme “Aging and Dying Well IN Christ Jesus: End-of-Earthly-Life Issues and Ministry”. All are welcome to attend and participate in the discussion.
The retreat will be held Saturday, February 4, 2017, from 9:00 a.m. to about 3:00 p.m., at Bethlehem Ev. Lutheran Church in Palestine, Texas. The speaker will be The Rev. Dr. Robert W. Weise, Professor Emeritus of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri. The Rev. Dr. Weise has degrees in education, zoology, and theology and holds the only position of its kind among Lutheran seminaries in North America, focusing on the relationship between theology and the life sciences.
The Rev. Dr. Weise has titled the day’s four sessions as follows: “Aging IN Christ: A Life of Fruitful Labor and Service”, “Dying Well IN Christ Jesus: The Tension”, “Physician-Assisted Suicide: Not A Picking and Choosing”, and “Always to Care and Take Care: Bearing the Burden”. He anticipates using case studies to introduce each theme and addressing practical questions that clergy and laity alike face as they deal with family-members’ and their own aging and deaths.
The Circuit #14 retreats are always informative and well worth the time. Registration is $20 per person and includes abundant refreshments and a delightful and hearty lunch. Advance registration through your local congregation is preferred, with a deadline of Saturday, January 28, in order to give those preparing the food (the Bethlehem LWML) the best possible idea of how many will attend, but registrations will also be taken at the door, usually beginning at 8:30 a.m. More information is available from your local pastor or the Circuit #14 Visitor, the Rev. Dennis J. Bragdon, by phone (979-966-2242) or email (djb78945@gmail.com).
Circuit #14 of the Texas District of the LCMS is comprised of twelve East Texas LCMS congregations, with worship sites as far north as Hawkins-Holly Lake, as far East as Nacogdoches, as far south as Lufkin, and as far west as Corsicana.
The retreat’s banner graphic was adapted from an uncredited image found online. Thanks go to Carla Adsit for composing the graphic.

Rev. Dr. Robert W. Weise

Epiphany

Epi – fa - WHAT???
On January 6, we will enter the EPIPHANY season in the Church Year. What is Epiphany?
A. History
After Easter, Epiphany is the oldest season of the Church year. Epiphany was observed as early as the second Century in Asia Minor and Egypt. The festival fell and still falls on January 6. In its origin, both the birth and baptism of Jesus were celebrated at the same time.
The date of Epiphany (January 6) was chosen because it was the winter solstice, a pagan festival celebrating the birthday of the sun god. In 331 B.C. the solstice was moved to December 25, but January 6 continued to be observed. Christians substituted Epiphany for the solstice. The emphasis was upon the rebirth of light. In keeping with this theme, the first lesson for Epiphany Day is appropriate: “Arise, shine; for your light has come.” (Isaiah 60:1)
The festival was divided when December 25 was chosen as the birthday of Jesus. The Eastern Church continued to celebrate Epiphany in terms of the baptism of Jesus while the Western Church associated Epiphany with the visit of the Magi.
The Baptism of Jesus was more crucial in the Eastern Church because of the Gnostic heresy claiming that Jesus did not become the Son of God until His baptism. On the other hand, to associate Epiphany with the Magi is appropriate, for the Magi did not get to Bethlehem for a year after Jesus’ birth (probably). By this time the holy family was in a house rather than in a stable. Consequently, the Magi could not have been a part of the manger scene which is popular in nativity scenes today.
B. The Name of Epiphany.
In the church year, Epiphany is a major Festival, similar to Christmas, Easter, and Pentecost. In spite of this, most churches ignore January 6 as the Day of Epiphany because it usually falls on a weekday, and our secular interests have pushed it aside.
The name “Epiphany” means “manifestation” or “revelation.” As light reveals (manifests) itself in the darkness, God reveals Himself in Jesus, and the glory of God is seen in Jesus. In the course of history Epiphany was known by other names: Feast of the Manifestation, Feast of Lights, Feast of the Appearing of Christ, Feast of the Three Kings, and the Twelfth Day.
C. The Color of the Season.
Color is used in the church year to denote the mood and meaning of the season. White is used for 3 Sundays in the Epiphany Season: Epiphany Day, the Baptism of our Lord (First Sunday after the Epiphany), and Transfiguration (The Last Sunday of the Epiphany). White is used for these days because of their festival nature … these are days of celebration. White expresses light, glory, victory, and celebration.
Green is used on Sundays other than the above three. Green is the color of growth. During Epiphany we are to grow to a fuller realization of the nature of Christ as the Son of God. Sunday after Sunday there is growth in God’s revealing his glory in Jesus.
D. Epiphany & The Church
1. Epiphany is a time to Worship
Of the Christ-child, the Magi said, “We have seen His star in the east and have come to worship Him.” Epiphany is a time of worship because it focuses our attention on the glory of God revealed in Jesus. When people see Jesus as God’s Son, they instinctively fall down to worship Him as Lord.
2. Epiphany is a time to Witness
The season’s emphasis on “Light” reminds us that God sent the Light so that all might see the light and know the truth and the way to God. Epiphany reminds the church of her primary reason for existence … her real “mission” – namely, to take the Light of Christ into a world darkened by sin and unbelief. We are light-bearers, witnesses who reflect the Light of Christ in our circles of influence.
3. Epiphany is a time to Win
Not only does Epiphany remind us of our obligation to witness as individuals, it also rekindles our rededication to the cause of World Missions. The Light of Christ is to shine not only in our neighborhoods, but through us to the salvation of the world.

After Easter, Epiphany is the oldest season of the Church year.

Stewardship

Celebrating New Years is a celebration of the past and the future. We take stock of the past with thanksgiving and sometimes even relief (that it’s over), and we look to the future in the hope and anticipation and perhaps even worry of what it holds.
The point is that New Year’s celebrations remind us of who we are as opposed to who we would like to be; what we have done in comparison to what we want to do. It reminds us of our accomplishments, but mostly it reminds us of our failures. What we’ve lost. Who we’ve lost.
New Years is our own version of Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol. And we all play Scrooge. We are visited by the ghosts of our pasts, presents, and futures.
St. Paul writes: “The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. As it is written, ‘He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever.’ He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way for all your generosity, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God” (2 Cor 9:6–15).
St. Paul tells us that the Lord of all will both supply and increase what you need to give to the church for its work in and for the world. He tells us that this work that God is doing in us will enrich and bless us in every way and through this it will produce thanksgiving to God. With this in mind, here is some practical advice to help you take stock of your giving of years past, which will help you to change what needs to be changed, improved, or done away with altogether.
First, attend the Divine Service to receive God’s gifts of forgiveness, life, and salvation. If you’ve not been faithful in attending worship to hear the preaching of God’s Word, to receive forgiveness, and feast of the rich food of our Lord’s body and blood for the eternal benefit of your body and soul, then repent and come to receive the gifts God freely gives. God doesn’t want your money. He wants you—all of you (Matt 22:20–22).
Second, pray for the Lord’s help. Your right as a Christian is to speak with your Father, the King of all creation, freely through His Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. Go to the throne of grace and ask for strength and wisdom to follow His bidding faithfully (John 15:1–16).
Third, consider what the Church is and what the Church does. The Church is a mercy place. It inhales the mercy of the Father by the death, resurrection, and ascension of His Son through the preaching of the Gospel and the Sacraments. It exhales this mercy in love toward the neighbor. You are a member of the Church, of God’s family. Thus, you are not only a recipient of God’s mercy, but a bearer of that mercy for the life of the world. You spread that mercy in showing mercy through the generous giving of your income to support the work of the Church in and for the world, as the Israelites did in the Old Testament (Lev 27:1–34).
Fourth, take stock of your current giving in light of the New Testament’s teaching on supporting the work of the Church. Are you giving of your first fruits, taking it out of your paycheck first, or does God get what’s left over? Are you giving voluntarily and cheerfully? Are you giving proportionally and generously? The Old Testament required a tithe, ten percent. The New Testament gives freedom to be generous, to give more for the Church’s work. Are you relying on God’s promise to provide and increase what you need to do His work? If your answer is no to any of these, repent. If God gave you His only Son, will He not provide for you all things, even physical things? Trust Him, His Word, and heed it.
So, don’t let your past define your future. Rather, commit for the year a generous proportion of your income, which is God’s gift to you for this body and life.

Is The Church Listening?

Mainline Protestantism's continuing numerical decline signals a spiritual crisis of huge proportions in our society.

What Are 'Boomer' dropouts telling us?
Try this mental survey:
Think of family, friends, neighbors and co-workers ages 50-69 … the so-called “baby boomer” generation. ask yourself how many of that group regularly attend church. Now count how many who once participated in church don't attend any more.
If your answers are typical, it probably is no surprise to you that the second number is larger than the first.
What you may not realize is this: Your mathematics isn't wrong. Few of the this age group say they plan to ever again attend church.
Those are among the sobering findings of a recent survey of mainline Protestant Christian "boomers" by the Lilly Foundation.
Two other key findings:
Many surveyed said they are not turned off by religion but are just indifferent to churches that do not stand out from mainstream American culture.
Lack of commitment to organized religion among mainline Protestant "boomers" has little to do with reasons often cited: the appeal of fundamentalist churches or disillusionment with denominational stances on social issues.
"The church just doesn't 'do' anything for them" explained one researcher. Rather, another observer suggested, baby boomers are seeking to make sense of evil, suffering and injustice but find little help in mainline churches.
We see both bad news and good news in such findings.
It's clearly bad news to receive yet more evidence of widespread disenchantment with the church of Jesus Christ, particularly among former church members .
Not only do they appear to be lost to the church, but, by extension, so might be their children, who likely won't attend Sunday school or church if their parents don't.
The good news in the recent Lilly survey is less obvious: The broad reasons given by baby boomers for not attending church point to the very things that we as Christians are equipped to do best – or at least should be.
Those include offering an alternative, via an invitation to follow and serve Christ, to the shallowness and emptiness of the prevailing culture.
If we in the church are uncertain about the latter reality, we need to wake up. Vast numbers of people find society's sexual hype, "me"-centeredness and focus on material things to be a soul-killing path to nowhere, a spiritual dead-end.
To such people, the Christian vision of a "more excellent way" – including God's forgiveness of sin and challenge to love and serve others – is welcome good news indeed!
Viewed against that background, the significance of the recent Lilly survey should be clear: Mainline Protestantism's continuing numerical decline signals a spiritual crisis of huge proportions in our society.
The crisis portends not only the specter of a lost institution. It includes the present reality of lost souls – including members of our own church family! – who have looked to us for bread but received a stone.
Hence the urgent need for a more probing survey: What might God be telling us through the indifference to church of large members of baby boomers? How should we respond?
National Christian Reporter

New Years’ Resolutions????????

AS WE MOVE TOWARD A NEW YEAR … 2017 … like many, you may be setting some important resolutions and goals for yourself and your family. As you think about the magnificent gift God is setting before you:
12 terrific months;
52 exciting weeks;
365 tremendous days;
8,760 fantastic hours.
Do not overlook those resolutions that honor God and become an expression of personal faith and commitment to Him.
Remember the importance of Worship and Holy Communion attendance; the significance of group Bible Study on Sunday mornings; and the fellowship and service opportunities through lay-ministry of the church; and the outstanding opportunities we have to graciously invite another friend or family to join us in faith and fellowship at Bethlehem. Make these matters a part of your 2017 New Years resolutions. God will bless the intentions of your faith!

God’s Share First

Surely to give with the expectation that we will become rich for our own selfish purposes is blasphemous. Those who practice percentage giving and tithing witness, first, great spiritual and second, that all of life, including financial, social, personal, family, business, physical, mental - in short - the whole of life is blessed. God promised that those who give according to His guidance will know His abundance (Malachi 3:10). Jesus said that we will receive as we give (Luke 6:38).
Bethlehem Ev. Lutheran Church urges members to serious consideration of their giving habits for the good of the kingdom and for the good of the soul.

REMEMBERING IN PRAYER
“In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)
HEALTH NEEDS
MEMBERS:
George Nelson - recovering from a stroke
Pastor Roy Southard - treatment for cancer
Carson Taylor - seizures
FRIENDS:
Gary Enders - [Donna Hughes’ brother]
Melvin Fogle - [Jo Ann Tugwell’s brother-in-law]
Brice Harrington - [Mary Unk’s grandson]
Bill & Ava Hogan - [Milton Hogan’s parents]
Helen Hooper - [Marjorie Smith’s friend]
Steve & Katie Lund - [former members] - ongoing health concerns
Janet MacKenzie - recovery from surgery
Clarence Mindrup - [Patti Lestig’s father] - cancer treatment
Joan Mosley - [Hughes’ friend]
Gaile Nivens - [Alicia Hutton’s aunt]
Debbie Noonan - [friend of Marcy Hogan] - ongoing health concerns
Lorie Owens - [Julie Schoppe sister & Ken Koehler’s daughter] - lung disease
Bonita Randall - [Neva Shugart Broad’s niece] - ongoing health concerns
Hazel Reed - [daughter of Battalion Chief Nathan Reed] - blood disorder
Emma Kate Rosier - [Lee Rosier’s great-granddaughter]
Floyd Ruhnke - [Marjorie Smith’s cousin] - health concerns
Bob Schneider - [Lana Bowden & Tim Lawson’s uncle] - running test, possible cancer
Phyllis Shafferkoetter - [Mary Unk’s sister] - blood clots in lungs and leg
Randy Stover- [Tugwell’s friend] - recovery from triple bypass surgery
Tim Walther - [Melanie Jackson’s brother] - stroke
Michelle Warren - [Mike Smith’s niece] - recovery from auto accident
Orville & Cookie Wilbanks - [friends of the Hughes’]
Gene & Patsy Worsham - [Tim’s parents] - ongoing health concerns
HOMEBOUND:
Opal Garber, Benjamin Garcia [Robert Garcia’s brother], Nicki Hightower, Dorothy Jackson, Martha Kaudelka, Neva Kosted, Ardelle Samford, Dean Sands, Johnnie Weaver, Connie Wunderlich
COMFORT: Donna Hughes—at the death of her brother Dave Enders, Olivia Wendell and siblings - [friend of Harris’]-at the loss of their mother
THOSE SERVING IN OUR NATION’S ARMED FORCES:
Members Kyle Lawson and Kyle Shepherd, as well as Robert Garcia [Juanita’s son], Jason Payne [Kay Wickliffe’s son] and Jeremy Stafford [Marcy Hogan’s nephew]
OTHER: Roy and Connie Eppeland - hunting accident
Please inform the Pastor and the Church Office regarding the status of submitted prayers so we may be timely and up-to-date in petitions to our gracious God.

Church Council Meeting - December 13, 2016

Gil called the meeting to order. Pastor opened with devotion and prayer. Minutes were read. **Motion by James, 2nd by Steve to accept. Motion carried.
REPORTS
VP- Gil reported that Albert is working with different person to get plaques installed.
Financial Secretary- Lea reported November income $16,813, expenses $13,948; excess $21,375. CEF balance $65,491 and CEF report. Additional will be sent to CEF this month.
Treasurer- Lea gave account balances, income report and budget report for November and year-to-date. **Motion by Melanie, 2nd by Jerry to accept financial reports, motion carried.
Elders- James reported November average attendance was 76, no membership changes.
Christian Education- Melanie reported average of 8 students in Sunday School, working on Christmas Service.
Evangelism- Jerry reported planning Veterans Appreciation Day; 3rd church sign is ready, will be put up on Highway 155 soon. Will order more Gospel of John; working with LWML to make hospitality bags. November Adopt-A-Highway went well, next may be April 8th. Exploring how we can assist with local Disaster Relief; discussing taking VBS to apartment. Discussion about Chili Friday.
Stewardship- Steve prepared summary of improvements over the last 15 years, mentioned energy audit. Will discuss in January. Energy savings look good.
Property- Jim changed air filters, changed out lights behind organ; workday went well, put first coat of paint on trim. Will plan another when weather more favorable. Roof leaks in places.
Social Concerns- Megan reported holiday dinner was great, fed about 50 on cold rainy day. Advent meals going good, youth served baked potatoes, chili on Wednesday. Confirmation May 7th, will work with families on meal/reception.
Youth- Yanneth reported very good visit at nursing home. Planning fun time in Tyler December 23rd, then caroling and visit nursing home, everyone invited. They are coloring cards to give out. Rent-A-Youth going ok, have some projects. Some proceeds will go toward Higher Things. Recycling ink cartridges and cell phones.
Pastor- very pleased at attendance at Advent Services; Christmas Eve 7 pm, Christmas Day 10:15. Sanctity of Life January 15th maybe take door offering for Living Alternatives of Palestine. Long Epiphany season, plan to work toward bringing members back. Mike & Shelia Flynn to be received by Adult Confirmation. Jan. 19th next Circuit Pastors Meeting. Circuit 14 Retreat February 4th, Dr Robert W Weise speaker. Kiwanis Club and Brookshire’s helping package Christmas dinners. Recipient of Chili Friday proceeds?
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Gil reported sound system completed, still tweaking to get sound right.
NEW BUSINESS
**Motion by Lea, 2nd by James to give proceeds of Chili Friday to Hope Station. Motion carried.
Megan agreed to coordinate Chili Friday.
Pastor asked that we keep Aaron Jackson in prayers as he will be attending Concordia, Seward pursuing career in church work. As a congregation we can help him.
**Motion by Lea, 2nd by James to adjourn. Motion carried. Pastor closed meeting with benediction.
Present: Gil Daughtrey, Jim Broad Jerry Hartenberger, Yanneth Harris, Megan Taylor, Steve Unk, Lea Rosier, Donna Hughes, Melanie Jackson, James Taylor, Pastor Adler.

“THE LUTHERAN HOUR RADIO MINISTRY”
The Lutheran Hour can be heard on the radio Saturday at:
6:30 AM on 91.9 FM KAVX Lufkin, TX
Sunday at:10:30 AM on 97.5 FM KTTB Tyler, TX
Sunday at 12:30 PM on 91.5 FM KHCB Madisonville, TX
Online at www.lutheranhour.org

DATE: January 1, 2017
TITLE: "Right on Time, Just When We Need His Grace"
TEXT: Galatians 4:4-7
SPEAKER: Rev. Gregory Seltz
It's the right time to repent, turn to God, ask for His help, and trust in the risen Savior, Jesus Christ.
DATE: January 8, 2017
TITLE: "God's Real Promise of Righteousness and Justice"
TEXT: Isaiah 42:1-9
SPEAKER: Rev. Gregory Seltz
Jesus brings us righteousness and justice to restore bruised reeds and reignite faintly burning wicks.
DATE: January 15, 2017
TITLE: "Looking For God? Look to the Lamb"
TEXT: John 1:29-42
SPEAKER: Rev. Gregory Seltz
Jesus' love, suffering, sacrifice, and triumph are all expressed in that most precious of titles: the Lamb of God.
DATE: January 22, 2017
TITLE: "The Word of the Cross - Power for Life"
TEXT: 1 Corinthians 1:10-18
SPEAKER: Rev. Gregory Seltz
To the world, Jesus seemed to be a loser. He suffered what all would consider defeat in order to win new life for you.
DATE: January 29, 2017
TITLE: "Our Foolishness, His Faithfulness"
TEXT: 1 Corinthians 1:18-31
SPEAKER: Emeritus Rev. Dr. Ken Klaus
Many consider Christ's cross to be just so much foolishness. That is the worst foolishness of all.

January 2 - J. K. Wilhelm Loehe, Pastor
Although he never left Germany, Johann Konrad Wilhelm Loehe, born in Fuerth in 1808, had a profound impact on the development of Lutheranism in North America. Serving as pastor in the Bavarian village of Neuendettelsau, he recognized the need for workers in developing lands and assisted in training emergency helpers to be sent as missionary pastors to North America, Brazil, and Australia. A number of the men he sent to the United States became founders of The Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod. Through his financial support, a theological school was established in Fort Wayne, Ind., and a teachers' institute in Saginaw, Mich. Loehe was known for his confessional integrity and his interest in liturgy and catechetics. His devotion to works of Christian charity led to the establishment of a deaconess training house and homes for the aged.
January 10 - Basil the Great of Caesarea, Gregory of Nazianzus, Gregory of Nyssa
Basil and the two Gregorys, collectively known as the Cappadocian Fathers, were leaders of Christian orthodoxy in Asia Minor (modern Turkey) in the later fourth century. Basil and Gregory of Nyssa were brothers; Gregory of Nazianzus was their friend. All three were influential in shaping the theology ratified by the Council of Constantinople of 381, which is expressed in the Nicene Creed. Their defense of the doctrines of the Holy Spirit and Holy Trinity, together with their contributions to the liturgy of the Eastern Church, make them among the most influential Christian teachers and theologians of their time.
January 20 - Sarah
Sarah was the wife (and half-sister) of the Hebrew patriarch Abraham (Gen. 11:29; 20:12). In obedience to divine command (Gen. 12:1), she made the long and arduous journey west, along with her husband and his relatives, from Ur of the Chaldees to Haran and then finally to the land of Canaan. She remained childless until old age. Then, in keeping with God's long-standing promise, she gave birth to a son and heir of the covenant (Gen. 21: 1-3). She is remembered and honored as the wife of Abraham and the mother of Isaac, the second of the three patriarchs. She is also favorably noted for her hospitality to strangers (Gen. 18:1-8). Following her death at the age of 127, she was laid to rest in the Cave of Machpelah (Gen. 49:13), where her husband was later buried.
January 27 - John Chrysostom, Preacher
Given the added name of Chrysostom, which means "golden-mouthed" in Greek, Saint John was a dominant force in the fourth-century Christian church. Born in Antioch around the year 347, John was instructed in the Christian faith by his pious mother, Anthusa. After serving in a number of Christian offices, including acolyte and lector, John was ordained a presbyter and given preaching responsibilities. His simple but direct messages found an audience well beyond his home town. In 398, John Chrysostom was made Patriarch of Constantinople. His determination to reform the church, court, and city there brought him into conflict with established authorities. Eventually, he was exiled from his adopted city. Although removed from his parishes and people, he continued writing and preaching until the time of his death in 407. It is reported that his final words were: "Glory be to God for all things. Amen."

BETHLEHEM STAR j
WHAT LUTHERANS BELIEVE...
Lutherans place their faith in the Triune God - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - who has made us, redeemed us, and empowers us for Christian living.
We believe Jesus Christ is the divine Son of God, who came to earth as a man, suffered and died in our place to win for us forgiveness of sin, and who rose again to life, assuring us that we, too, can live with Him eternally.
We teach that we come to stand in right relation- ship with God not through our own goodness or righteousness, but through our faith in Jesus as Savior. Faith alone receives the full promises of God.
We believe that the two Sacraments, Baptism and the Lord's Supper, were instituted by Christ and offers forgiveness of sin to all who receive them in faith.
Concerning Baptism, we teach that infants should also be baptized, since they, too, are sinful and need God's grace. God can work faith in them, even though they are too young to intellectually grasp the Gospel.
We believe that the body and blood of Jesus are truly present in the Lord's Supper through miraculous means, and that only Christians who share our belief should commune with us.
We believe that God speaks to the world through His Word in the Bible.
We believe that God loves every person and intends for all a life of dignity and meaning.
We assert the vital importance of the Christian congregation as the community of believers in which the Gospel is preached and the Sacraments rightly administered.

Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church
The Lutheran Church -- Missouri Synod
1515 South Loop 256
Palestine, Texas 75801-5857
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JANUARY 2017