The Star July 2017 Bethlehem Lutheran Church A community gathered so God’s message is

scattered.

Wahoo, Nebraska

Ph#402-443-3160

Pastor Bob Hayden-rbhhayden@reagan.com -

ph # 402-672-1345

Church office hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:00 - 4:30 p.m.

Church web site: bethlehemlutheranwahoo.org

Church email: wahoo.bethlehem@gmail.com

Dear Members and Friends of Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Wahoo…

In the past five or six weeks, our area has been subject to two violent storms

producing wind speeds approaching and surpassing 100 MPH. On both occasions, I was

at our home in Valley, the first on May 16th and the last one June 16

th. The first time,

there were three of us in the house and the last time as part of a pre-Father’s Day

gathering, our entire family was gathered when the storms hit.

As the television warnings came and the storm sirens blew, we scattered into

action covering cars with blankets, bringing potted plants indoors, securing outdoor

furniture as best we could, scurrying for flashlights. Even when hearing the warning of the

approaching storm, the reality of the storm doesn’t register until you are in the midst of it.

On both occasions, just before the full force of the wind descended upon us, an eerie

quiet was replaced by a dust cloud, leaves, lightning, and thunder.

The full force of the 100 mph winds was spellbinding as we stood in our garage,

the doors open with cars snugged up bumper to bumper seeking some kind of coverage.

The sheer sound of the roar of the wind, the cracking of tree limbs, the horizontal rain fall,

and the wondering of what was going to happen next filled our thoughts. Repeated

warnings of ‘move to the center of the house; get away from the windows; where are the

little ones and the dog; echoed through the house.

The severity of the storm seemed to last for hours when in reality, the worst of it

was ten minutes or less. For me, I have never been fearful, especially when I am

convinced the family is as safe as can be. I am drawn more to the wonder of it all and the

sheer power of the storm. I find myself thinking philosophically and theologically

wondering, yes, just wondering if at such times God is sending us a message reminding

us of what real power is and from where it comes. “The wind blows where it wishes and

you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is

everyone who is born of the Spirit.”—John 3:8

After the storm passes, in our neighborhood at least and I strongly believe that in

nearly every neighborhood, the curious come out from their bunkers to survey the

damage. Having seen sparks fly from power poles, our neighborhood came out from the

dark houses into the darkened outdoors standing in shared awe of twisted trees, debris,

and streets blocked by fallen limbs. There is no panic, there is no lamenting, there is

however sincere questions of personal welfare… “Are you folks all right? Do you need

help? Are there power lines down in your yard? Did anyone check to see how so and so

“And suddenly there came from heaven a noise like a violent rushing wind, and it filled the house in which they were sitting.” -Acts 2:2

In the immediate aftermath of a storm like this and after securing the safety of our

households, we are out there collectively checking on the welfare of others. Neighbors we

may not have spoken to in weeks suddenly become our concern and our long- lost

friends. We gather in the streets our yards surveying damage and looking to see if

anything can or needs to be done immediately to limit further damage or problems.

Cell phones go into full use, checking on family and friends in other places. Some

attempt to drive or walk to check on others. The people of God are on full alert, looking to

help and warn others of potential dangers.

Early the next morning, chain saws interrupt the singing of the birds; small armies

of people busy at work clearing the debris not only in their own yards, but helping

neighbors as well. There is something about adversity that brings people together doing

things we should be doing for each other every day of the year.

The goodness that is in each of us comes pouring out and we think nothing of our

time or getting paid to help someone else. “The rain fell, and the floods came, and the

winds blew and slammed against the house; and yet it did not fall, for it had been founded

on the rock.” -Matthew 7:26

Standing on the rock of Jesus Christ, gathered together, we are solid, we are as

Jesus taught us, “Immersed in goodness, faith, and love.” Even at Bethlehem, many

came forward to help clean up a downed tree next to the Scout House. Some came as

early as the call went out, others brought heavy equipment, saws, trailers, pickups, strong

backs, and great attitudes. In no time at all, a big project was cleaned up, repairs

planned, and joyous fellowship throughout.

People of Bethlehem, people of God, perhaps storms are blessings in disguise

sometimes. Perhaps storms teach us to be prepared, to be alert, to make sure our loved

ones are safe, to reach out to our neighbors, to do the work that needs to be done.

Perhaps storms remind us how important we are to each other. Perhaps storms remind

us that no matter how severe the storms of life may be, that if we stand on the Rock of

Jesus Christ, we will prevail.

Truly hoping that the wind storms are over for now, may we take and show that

same concern in the aftermath of the storms to our families, to our friends, to our neigh-

bors, to the strangers who live among us and we with them. May we faithfully believe that

Jesus Christ shelters us from whatever storms may come our way.

Blessings and Gratitude…Pastor Bob

Being Talked About This Summer

Through the month of June at various working committee meetings, your pastor

has posed the question of the possibility of considering an on-going Wednesday

mid-week worship service. This is a consideration that cannot quickly be decided upon

as there are far-ranging aspects and nuances and logistics.

The reason for even considering this possible addition in our worship schedule is

the real fact that so many families find it difficult to worship on Sunday mornings due to

a whole host of reasons.

Before any of us say, ‘sure, let’s give it a try,’ there are many things to consider.

Such as: does this fracture our worship community…that is how do we remain a close

congregation if many worship mid-week and not on Sunday? What does this do to our

Sunday School? Do we offer some kind of youth education mid-week? If not when will

those children learn about God if they are not in Sunday School? Do we have enough

different teachers, teachers who are not currently teaching Sunday School, to step

forward to provide youth education mid-week? How would we ‘fit-in’ confirmation class,

high school ministry, choir and all the rest if there is worship service? What would this

type of service be like? Would there be Holy Communion? Right away, I will tell you, I

don’t see this service being a repeat of what is done on Sunday. Who would serve as

usher, lector, altar guild, musicians, etc.? If our total attendance for three services

remains basically the same as for two, is that the best use of so much extra time, effort,

expense, and energy?

As I said, there is much, much to consider. We are considering sending out an

opinion poll as to this question. Input is vital; prayerful consideration even more vital.

Again, this is nothing to rush into; it will require a lot of extra work from a lot of people.

If you have thoughts and opinions, let our Mutual Ministry Committee, Worship & Music,

Church Council, Sunday School teachers, and of course pastor know. Again, this is

something for us to consider, carefully consider.

Not to overwhelm you, but another issue being discussed is what are the duties,

privileges, expectations, hopes, and goals of Bethlehem membership. How would you

describe or how do you understand the meaning of membership at Bethlehem? Is most

of our membership on the same page when it comes to membership?

My hope in all this is not to irritate you, but ask us all to consider these very real

issues so that we may at the very least have healthy and productive discussion about

the future and health of our congregation and members. Stated expectations after

discussion I feel at least, will help to clarify our roles as faithful members of Bethlehem.

Day Camp 2017

July 10—14th!

Registration forms available in the office.

Day Camp is for children who have completed 1st—6th grade

Cost is $35 per child or $40 per family.

If you would be able to provide housing for the counselors from Carol Joy Holling this week, please let the office know. Thank you!

Vacation Bible School 2017

July 10th – 13th 9 – 11:30 AM

For all children who have completed 1 year of Sunday School up to and including kindergarten.

Come join us for amazing crafts, games and delicious snacks, a fun Bible adventure and

incredible music!

The week will conclude with an Ice Cream Social and small program on

Thursday, July 13th.

Register by stopping in the church office. A donation of $10 per child is suggested to help

cover supply costs.

Please contact Lori Mortensen at lorimortz1@gmail.com

if you would like to volunteer to help!

July Birthdays: Cooper Hancock 7/1 Michelle Koranda 7/2 Brennen Nelson 7/2 Katie Nelson 7/2 Jon Peterson 7/2 Renee Stewart 7/2 Tammy Larsen 7/3 Braedenn Olson 7/3 Glenda Ferguson 7/4 Jalynn Larsen 7/4 Brian Lubker 7/4 Mary Miller 7/5 Rick Williams 7/5 Tiana Strait 7/6 Mary McKay 7/7 Joshua Christian 7/8 Ann Egr 7/8 Cherry Semrad 7/8 Samantha Sutton 7/8 Cadie Mattson 7/9 Elsie Obert 7/10 Ron Cooney 7/11 Owen Shull 7/11 Ellie Schwartz 7/12 Ed Banks 7/12 Charles Obert 7/12 Michelle Vybiral 7/12 Emma Bartek 7/13 Neil Urban 7/14 Troy Syverson 7/15

Markael Zeleny 7/16 Alexander Borchers 7/16 Patsy Hulse 7/16 Emery Lausterer 7/16 Morgan Oden 7/16 Stacey Schneider 7/18 Corky Forbes 7/18 Amanda Schwartz 7/18 Teagan Watts 7/18 Wesley Langemeier 7/19 Trevin Luben 7/19 Grady Nelson 7/19 Josh Price 7/19 Michelle Swanson 7/20 Elijale Zeleny 7/20 Ryan Brocknoff 7/21 Barbara Fisher 7/21 Carissa Koranda 7/21 James Peterson 7/21 Jacey Sutton 7/22 Colter Mattson 7/22 Rosie Rosengren 7/22 April Watts 7/23 Beverly Lindstrom 7/23 Josh Borchers 7/24 Kelly Cordes 7/24 Chaleigh Mattson 7/24 Steve Gerdts 7/25 Tori Stratman 7/26 Mason Wambold 7/27 Sarah Iversen 7/28 Marshall Buch 7/29 Kenningston Schmidt 7/29 Laura Barry 7/30 Katrina Christen 7/30 Hillary Christian 7/31 Sandra Peters 7/31 Chloe Strait 7/31

Happy Birthday!

July Anniversaries Randy and Erin Egr 7/10 Jamie and Kim Schnakenberg 7/10 Rod and Kelli Mattson 7/11 Zach and Kelly Meyer 7/15 Chad and Tricia Fox 7/22 Craig and Lindsey Langemeier 7/23

If you do not see your birthday or anniversary, please let Amy know in the office at 402-443-3160 or email at wahoo.bethlehem@gmail.com so we can correct our database. Thank you!

500th Anniversary Commemoration Planning

A meeting was held on June 15th in which several members attended. We talked about opportunities for education, fellowship, reaching out to others in our community, including our Catholic friends and of course lots of FUN to commemorate this great event! Please join us at the next meeting, July 11th at 7 PM and watch for more information to come!

Refrigerator Needed: If anyone has a refrigerator that they aren't using and would like to donate we need a different one for flower use. It needs to be frost free and not a side-by-side. Thanks!

Sunday Monday Tuesday

2 9:30 AM Worship 10:30 AM Fellowship

3 6:30 PM Boy Scouts

4

9 9:30 AM Worship 10:30 AM Fellowship 6:00 PM Men’s Group

10

6:30 PM Boy Scouts 7:00 AM Worship and Music

11 9:00 AM Quilting Old OB 7:00 PM Reformation Planning

16 9:30 AM Worship 10:30 AM Fellowship

17 9:00 AM WIC 6:30 PM Boy Scouts

18

23 9:30 AM Worship 10:30 AM Council Meeting 9:30 AM Worship 10:30 AM Fellowship

24 6:30 PM Boy Scouts

31

25 9:00 Quilting Old OB *Newsletter article deadline

July 2017

Day Camp

Vacation Bible School

Mark your calendars! Sunday, August 27th we will have an appreciation / fundraising dinner to fund shipping the quilts

for Lutheran World Relief. Watch the bulletin / STAR for more details!

Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1

5

6 9:00 AM Bible Study 7:00 PM AA Meeting

7

8

12

13 9:00 AM Bible Study 7:00 PM AA Meeting

Ice Cream Social! 5:30-7:00 PM

14 Krazy Quilters

15

19 12:00 PM ACT Mtg

20 9:00 AM Bible Study

1:30 PM MGM

2:00 PM Bethlehem Women

7:00 PM AA Meeting

21

22

26

27

9:00 AM Bible Study 7:00 PM AA Meeting

28 29

July 2017

Luther’s Lessons

"Here I stand"

It started on All Saints' Eve, 1517, when Luther publicly objected to the way preacher Johann Tetzel was selling indulgences. These were documents prepared by the church and bought by individuals either for themselves or on behalf of the dead that would release them from punishment due to their sins. As Tetzel preached, "Once the coin into the coffer clings, a soul from purgatory heavenward springs!"

Luther questioned the church's trafficking in indulgences and called for a public debate of 95 theses he had written. Instead, his 95 Theses spread across Germany as a call to reform, and the issue quickly became not indulgences but the authority of the church: Did the pope have the right to issue indulgences? Events quickly accelerated. At a public debate in Leipzig in 1519, when Luther declared that "a simple layman armed with the Scriptures" was superior to both pope and councils without them, he was threatened with excommunication.

Luther replied to the threat with his three most important treatises: The Address to the Christian Nobility, The Babylonian Captivity of the Church, and On the Freedom of a Christian. In the first, he argued that all Christians were priests, and he urged rulers to take up the cause of church reform. In the second, he reduced the seven sacraments to two (baptism and the Lord's Supper). In the third, he told Christians they were free from the law (especially church laws) but bound in love to their neighbors.

In 1521 he was called to an assembly at Worms, Germany, to appear before Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor. Luther arrived prepared for another debate; he quickly discovered it was a trial at which he was asked to recant his views.

Luther replied, "Unless I can be instructed and convinced with evidence from the Holy Scriptures or with open, clear, and distinct grounds of reasoning ... then I cannot and will not recant, because it is neither safe nor wise to act against conscience." Then he added, "Here I stand. I can do no other. God help me! Amen."

By the time an imperial edict calling Luther "a convicted heretic" was issued, he had escaped to Wartburg Castle, where he hid for ten months.

Source: http://www.christianitytoday.com/history/people/theologians/martin-luther.html

Bethlehem Women: Nine ladies met June 15, 2017 at 2 pm in the Fellowship

Hall for Bethlehem Women and Bible Study.

Arlene Johnson opened the meeting with prayer followed

by the Business meeting. Secretary, Treasurer, Projects

and Sunshine reports were given and approved.

We celebrated three birthdays in June; Pastor Bob,

Marcia Pearson and Darlene Hanson.

New Business included announcement of the Carol Joy

Holling Quilt Auction on July 29th from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

The next Bloodmobile is June 21st and Marilyn Volin and

Helen Hansen volunteered to donate cookies.

Marcia Pearson talked to us about her position on the newly formed Stewardship

Committee. She will be the contact person with our organization.

Arlene thanked Diane Reece for leading our lesson and Deloris Smith for serving.

Mary McKay announced that our appreciation Sunday luncheon will be August 27th. We

received our offerings and closed the Business meeting with prayer.

Diane led us in the first of a three session Bible Study entitled “All Anew Ready or not

-Say Goodbye to Nice” which included passages from Revelation, I Samuel, I Kings and

2nd

Corinthians. This is the same Bible Study that they will be having at the Triennial

Gathering in July.

Deloris Smith furnished a delicious strawberry dessert.

FOR YOUR CALENDAR:

Tuesday, July 11th 9 am Quilting in the Old Basement

Thursday, July 20th 2 pm Bethlehem Women

Lesson leader: Arlene Johnson,

Hostess: Marilyn Klinzman

Tuesday, July 25th 9 am Quilting in the Old Basement

Saturday, July 29th 9 am to 5 pm C J H Quilt Auction

June 11, 2017 Church Council Meeting - Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Wahoo Members Present: Mike Christen, Luke Simons, Chad Fox, Missy Abbott, Ryan Ideus (President), Jovan Lausterer and Pastor Bob Hayden. Members Excused: Kim Schnakenberg, Tiana Strait and Michelle Koranda. Guests Present: None.

CALL TO ORDER- The meeting was called to order by President Ideus at 11:02 a.m. after a motion by Simons, second by Christen and unanimous vote to appoint Lausterer as Secretary pro tempore for the meeting. MAY MINUTES- May of 2017 council meeting minutes were not presented for consideration at this time. MAY FINANCIAL REPORT- May of 2017 financial reports were presented by the President for council consideration. Discussion ensued regarding the fact that offerings remain behind what was budgeted for general offerings and that additional efforts should be made in 2017 to help bridge the gap between offerings and expenditures. Motion to approve as presented by Lausterer and seconded by Simons. Motion unanimously approved: 6 Yeas, 0 Nays, 0 Abstentions. PASTOR’S PROGRESS REPORT- Pastor Hayden presented his May progress report to the council. Motion to approve by Lausterer and seconded by Abbott to approve the Pastor’s Report. Motion unanimously approved: 6 Yeas, 0 Nays, 0 Abstentions.

COMMITTEE LIAISON REPORTS WORSHIP AND MUSIC COMMITTEE REPORT- Abbott reported that considerable discussion is taking place regarding the need for better processes relating to preparing for services as well as the fact that the old computer needs to be replaced. Further discussion will take place at Monday night’s committee meeting. MUTUAL MINISTRY COMMITTEE REPORT- Fox reported that the group is delving into the issue of “what it should mean to be considered an active member” of our church. PROPERTY COMMITTEE REPORT- Simons reported that they are continuing to work on various projects around the church the most pressing of which relate to concrete and drainage work on the south and east sides of the church. STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT- Lausterer presented copies of the committee minutes. The most notable item for discussion was the fact that Pearson would be addressing WELCA to see if they are interested in taking the lead on the third priority from the worship survey (mission), that the committee is recommending earmarking the second half rent payment for savings which was the second priority from the worship survey and that next year the council should take out all income and expenses from the farm property from the annual budget with those monies to be utilized for special capital improvements considering that was the top survey item. It was further noted that Deyo’s paid leave was extended several weeks following a special electronic meeting of the council but that Deyo is now back to work and doing well.

OLD BUSINESS

CHARTER INSTALL- There were several small complications that resulted from the Charter Install, however, Pastor reported that these kinks have been worked out and that our internet service is now much quicker. BYLAW REVIEW- Lausterer and Ideus agreed they will attempt to sit down and go over the existing By-Laws and outline possible revisions to the same.

The council agreed that all other old business items have been addressed and resolved and therefore can be taken off the agenda going forward.

NEW BUSINESS ALTERNATIVE WORSHIP SERVICE INITIAL DISCUSSION- Pastor reported that there has been increased interest in an alternative service (i.e. Wednesday or Saturday evening) and that additional consideration of the logistics, need, impacts, etc. need to be further considered. The council agreed that the matter should continue to be investigated by the Mutual Ministry, Evangelism and Stewardship committees whom should report back to the council regarding their thoughts. No action is necessary at this time and the matter shall be referred to hereafter as old business. WEDDING APPLICATION- Simons reported that a displaced local couple has requested to use the church for an upcoming wedding. Simons is in the wedding and will serve as the facility coordinator for the wedding. Motion to approve charging a special $500 fee to the couple by Lausterer and seconded by Abbott. Motion unanimously approved: 6 Yeas, 0 Nays, 0 Abstentions. BALL FIELD BANNER- Ideus reported that the Wahoo Parks and Recreation Director contacted the church regarding the dilapidated sign the church has down at the ballpark. Motion to approve spending up to $300 on a new sign from Mead Signs by Lausterer and seconded by Abbott. Motion unanimously approved: 6 Yeas, 0 Nays, 0 Abstentions. MOBILE/ON-LINE GIVING- Lausterer presented materials from our current provider, Vanco, regarding free and paid options for improving our mobile and on-line giving options. The council felt it would be appropriate to send each giving unit in the congregation a statement of giving along with: (i) information regarding the new EFT giving options; and (ii) an explanation of what increase would be necessary per giving unit to bridge the gap between regular giving and our operating budget. Lausterer was thereafter directed to work with Vanco to install all services offered by Vanco which do not require either installment fees or monthly charges (understanding that there are transactional processing fees we already pay and will continue to pay). VALUATION CHANGES- Ideus reported that the property tax valuation for the dryland farm increased by approximately $7,000 whereas the irrigated tract went up by nearly $41,000. The council agreed there is no basis for a valuation protest but is mindful that the 2018 dryland cash rent may need to be increased to account for the taxes. No action necessary and the matter should be removed from the agenda going forward. INSURANCE BENEFITS- Pastor reported that he feels it would be appropriate for the council to consider providing the church secretary position with some sort of insurance benefit in order to remain competitive for the position. After discussion a motion was made to pay a $100 per month insurance stipend (rather than to offer insurance) to the church secretary position beginning in June by Abbott and seconded by Fox. Motion unanimously approved: 6 Yeas, 0 Nays, 0 Abstentions. NEXT MEETING- The next church council meeting is scheduled for Sunday, July 23, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. ADJOURNMENT- The meeting was adjourned by the President at 12:38 p.m. followed by a joint prayer.

SECRETARY PRO TEMPORE Jovan W. Lausterer

Spread the word! We will also have a stand in Lincoln on July 3rd and 4th. It will be in the Walmart parking lot at 2500

Jamie Lane (NW Side of 27th & Yankee Hall Road)

Bethlehem’s Blessings

Thank you to everyone who came and helped with the tree clean up! A special thank you to Luke Simons and Ken Houfek for cutting up the tree the day before and to Tom Zeleny for coming back and fixing the fence! We enjoyed having many guests who came for the Luther Fest Reunion. It was wonderful to see such a great turn out!

It is in blessing others that we are blessed with a precious blessing of our own~

GET YOUR FIREWORKS FROM BETHLEHEM LUTHERAN YOUTH

LOCATED AT GOTTCHALK’S ATHLETICS June 25th - July 4th

Please bring this coupon in for 10% off your purchase!

Additional coupon available at tntfireworks.com (we will price match other coupons for exact items)

BLY Street Ministry Project- Blessing Bags As the Bethlehem Lutheran Youth Group prepares for our Mission Trip to Kansas City we need

your help to fulfill our street ministry project! We learned last summer that there are many

residents in Kansas City who live in extreme poverty and are living on the streets. To help, we

will be creating Blessing Bags filled with items to help meet some basic needs of these folks.

We need your help to make our Blessing Bags possible!

Items needed include:

Chapstick/Lip Balm

Lotion (travel size)

Toothbrushes

Toothpaste (small or mini size)

Bandaids

Deodorant

Wet Wipes (travel size packs)

Combs

Feminine Hygiene Products (preferably pads)

Cereal Bars/Chewy Granola Bars

High Protein Snacks (beef jerky sticks, peanut butter to-go, and protein bars)

Snack Cups (applesauce, pudding, vegetables, fruit)

Mints (bags of Lifesavers work great!)

Socks (their feet are their main transportation)

Please NO hand sanitizer, mouthwash, or hard granola bars.

Please Drop off your donations at Bethlehem Lutheran Church office

or C and C Caffe, Wahoo. Donations accepted through July 4th!

Thank you in advance for helping us change the lives of others! God’s Work. Our Hands.

July Acolyte Schedule: July 2nd 9:30 AM - Mason Koranda and Cooper Hancock July 9th 9:30 AM - Samantha Sutton and Cadie Mattson July 16th 9:30 AM - Cooper and Harper Hancock July 23rd 9:30 AM - Samantha Sutton July 30th 9:30 AM - Mason Koranda Jack Mortensen

Bethlehem Lutheran Church 504 West 8th St.

Wahoo, Nebraska 68066 402-443-3160

Newsletter mailed 6/28/2017

Nonprofit Org. Permit No. 23

U.S. Postage PAID Wahoo, NE 68066

Return Service Requested

Let Us Know Your Email Address! If you would prefer “THE STAR” via email let us know. Also, having an email address can help us update people faster and without postage costs. Simply email the church office at: wahoo.bethlehem@gmail.com and give us your email.

Our Members at the Care Centers: South Haven: Eunice Brodahl and Robert Peterson

Care Center: Jenny Iversen Saunders House: Tom Lindau & Stanley Dokulil

Please let us know: If you are going to the hospital or having a procedure done please give the office a call to let us know. HIPA rules prevent hospitals from calling us.

* Deadline for submitting articles for the July Newsletter is June 25th.