Bethlehem June News

I have recently returned from the Pacifica Synod Assembly, and so I am mindful of the scope of the church’s compassion and care, and the breadth of her voice. More than 300 of us gathered at Gloria Dei Lutheran in Dana Point to share our stories, to discern the work of the Holy Spirit in our day, and to follow in the way of the cross. It’s easy to forget that we are not alone in this work. Much of our days are spent with what is on my to-do list, what must I accomplish today. Forgetting that we are part of something wider, deeper and stronger. Part of something that is inclusive of all the gifts we possess.

It is not up to you to hold up the world — though in these heavy days, it often feels that way. Yet here is the freedom in which we live. It is up to God to hold us and keep us, to comfort and save us, and to carry this world in the arms of grace. It is up to all of us to do nothing more, than to bring our simple gifts — to come together, to work together, to lift up hope and healing together, for the sake of our neighbors and for the sake of the world.

Ellen called me recently. I had only met her once before. She asked to meet with me about caring for immigrant families. I was intrigued. She arrived, and said she had heard Bethlehem was a congregation with connections to the immigrant community. I was honored, and a little startled, to learn that we are becoming the congregation in the area known for this compassionate work. Her friend Jeremy came as well. He works in international social service. We spoke about how we might partner together in helping families in need. While the three of us were getting to know each other, an older gentleman walked into the church looking for help. Byron and his wife were headed back to Arizona after a family funeral and needed gas money. I gave him what I had in cash. It wasn’t much. Ellen reached into her purse and did the same. Jeremy offered to Venmo him some money. Byron said, “I’m an old man sir, and I don’t understand technology much, but my wife has Venmo, let me speak to her.” He returned in a moment with her phone in hand. I know people scam churches often, but I have gained instincts over the years, and his need felt very real.

Byron left us with his profound thanks. As the three of us waved him off, I was struck by God’s providence. They had come to discuss future ministry, and God had engaged us in immediate ministry. How like God, to gather us for a purpose beyond our knowing. So it is, in this common work we share. Strangers or friends, not one of us has enough on our own, for the work before us, but together we have all we need. Together, we can help people find their way home.

Now is the time to join in the wide circle of us who walk as yet by faith. We do not hold the world up by ourselves, nor should we, but we are part of God’s movement for the healing of the world. Pentecost is in just a few days. Would that everyone could hear of the love of God, each in their own language, each in their own way. The following prayer to be shared on Pentecost Day:

“Living God, we pray for the church. Inspire us with the touch of your Spirit, that we might find the courage to proclaim the good news in every language, to every person, and in every circumstance. Make us instruments of your peace in the midst of conflict, and messengers of your mercy to all who are downtrodden and discouraged. Lord in your mercy, . . .

In God’s infinite mercy, may you hear of the love of God for you in the language of your heart. May that love find you, heal you, take its place in you and carry you in these days. What a blessing it is to carry this Word together.

Together on the journey, Pastor Laura

June Worship Schedule

Sunday Worship

June 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd & 29th - 9:00 and 10:30 am

Worship usually takes place in the sanctuary for both services, and there is the option to sit outside in the eco-narthex as well. The livestream usually takes place during the 10:30 am Sunday service or as indicated.

Music Ministry

The Spring concert "Our Community of Music" will be presented on Sunday, June 8th at 4 pm in the sanctuary. Join us for an afternoon of music featuring the many ensembles and soloists from our congregation. A free will offering will be taken for the music department. There will be a livestream link of the performance available on the day of the concert.

Vacation Bible School Band - June 23 -27 and June 29 - This year's VBS theme is called "Just Like Me'. We have a live band with guitar, bass, drum, piano, singers, and dancers who will be teaching six new songs about character and self awareness during the week. The band plays each weekday morning from 9-9:30 a.m and again from 11:30 -noon. VBS songs are added to the following Sunday morning services ( 6/29) . Right now we have 4 instrumentalists, 4 singers and 3 dancers. If you might want to join us, please contact monagoetsch@gmail.com. We have 2 rehearsals left - June 9 @ 1 p.m. and June 22 after church. (11:30 a.m.) .

Summer Soloists and Ensembles/ Thank you to all groups! - During the summer, all of our choirs take a break. However, we will continue to provide special music for all services with duets, small ensembles and soloists. If you might be interested in sharing your talents or have a returning son/daughter who might like to perform on a Sunday morning, please contact monagoetsch@gmail.com. The regular schedule will begin again in mid-September. Thank you to all who share their talents through music during the school year!

Bethlehem Serves - September 21, 2025

Mark your calendar for Bethlehem's annual Day of Service on Sunday, September 21st. We have a short worship service about 9 a.m. and then participate in service projects onsite or at various locations in our community. Last year we had 13 projects that included working in the gardens at Ocean Knoll School, Car Wash, Hygiene Kits for Showers of Blessings, School Bags, First Responders Care Baskets and many more. The morning ends with an all church picnic on the lawn about 11:30 a.m. Mona Goetsch and Jana Hegg will be contacting people to lead the various groups.

Children's Ministry

Learning Circles:

June 1st - Paul and Silas; Acts 16:16-40
June 8th - Summer Popcorn Party!

Learning Circles will take a break for the summer. Activities and snacks will be available for children in the narthex throughout the summer. If you need help or resources for your children during worship time, please let us know.

We still have space for Vacation Bible School 2025!

Just Like Me!

June 23rd to 27th

9:00 am to noon daily.

Hosted by Bethlehem Lutheran Church

and St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.

Just Like Me! VBS 2025 Registration

Our theme this year is in the garden and we will be transforming the church campus into a garden sanctuary for our week of VBS. If you have potted plants that you would like to share with us for the week, we would love to borrow them. You can drop them off at church on either Saturday, June 21st or Sunday, June 22nd. We will take good care of them and return them to you on Sunday, June 29th.

Also, if you are available to help with last minute prep and set-up, plan on joining us on the morning of Saturday, June 21st at 9:00 am. If you are available to help in either of these ways, please let us know.

Contact Jana Hegg at childrensministry@blcenc.org

Youth Ministry

Summer Days at the Beach - The youth group will begin meeting at the beach on Wednesday, June 18that 4:30. This is a relaxing time to check in, play Spike Ball, cool off in the water, or just soak up some sun with friends. At 6 pm we walk to Cali Cream to get ice cream or other treats. Bring your beach gear and some money for ice cream. Students can be picked up at Cali Cream at 6:30 pm.

Beach dates are: June 18, June 25, July 2, July 9, July 30 and August 6 from 4:30-6:30 pm.

Summer Sunday Nights - Starting on July 6th, youth group moves to Sunday evenings. We will get together from 6:30-8pm. Summer nights will have a new theme each week. Check out the schedule below and mark your summer calendars!

July 6– Game Night at St. Andrew’s
July 13 – Capture the Flag Night at Bethlehem
NO Sunday Meetings July 20
July 27 – Trivia competitions with prizes at St. Andrew’s

(More dates will be announced in the next newsletter.)

Maui Participants Reminders - The Maui Group will go to Laser Tag on June 11th from 3-7 pm. A pre-trip meeting to discuss final travel details will be held on Zoom, Sunday, June 22nd at 5pm. Watch your emails for required waivers and other travel information.

Golf Tournament

Our Annual BLC Golf Tournament will be held on Sunday, June 22nd starting at 1pm at Lomas Santa Fe Executive Golf Course, 1580 Sun Valley Rd, Solana Beach. Price per golfer is $60, which includes green fee and cart.

Deadline to sign up is June 9th. Golfers can sign up on-line by clicking here.

Adventure Ministry (BAM)

Beach Day - Join Bethlehem Adventure Ministry (BAM) for a day at the beach!

Saturday, July 12, 2025

All day

Moonlight Beach

The westernmost end

of Encinitas Blvd.

(Click here for a map)

We will arrive early to save a firepit. Look for us!
Plenty of parking, restrooms, rentals, and food to purchase.
Bring your sand toys, boogie boards, and surfboards.
Bring your own food or purchase at the beach.
Don't forget your hat, rash guard, flipflop, chair, towel, and lots of sunscreen.
All are welcome!

We are going camping! - Friday, September 5th through Sunday, September 7th.

We will be tent camping at the El Prado group campground near the town of Mount Laguna. Our site is the Big Sage campsite. Parking will be limited to 15 vehicles so we will be requiring signups in advance. Maximum vehicle length of 45 feet.

We will share a potluck dinner on Saturday night. Last year we had a Mexican themed meal, this year (thanks to a suggestion from Alisa Wolf) we will have a Mediterranean themed meal – hummus, pita bread, tabouleh salad, tzatziki sauce, shawarma, falafel. The rest of the meals will be your responsibility. There’s a fire pit and several picnic tables at the site. There is also a pit toilet at the site. Showers and flush toilets are available in the larger campground. We can go hiking, biking (e-bikes are not allowed on the trails but can be used on the paved roads), play games, or just relax.

Signup early to reserve your spot here.

Questions? Contact Dennis Astroth

Stewardship Stream

Whether you’re planning your first charitable gift or updating an existing estate plan, this season brings fresh opportunities to align your giving with what matters most to you. In this issue of the ELCA Foundation’s Insights, you can learn practical tips for every life stage, insights on maintaining up-to-date estate documents, and guidance on giving smarter through tools like stock gifts and IRAs. These resources are designed to help you make confident, value-driven decisions — both now and for the future.

Have questions? Need more information? Contact Lisa Higginbotham, our Regional Gift Planner from the ELCA Foundation, at Lisa.Higginbotham@elca.org. Wherever you are in your giving journey, she’s here to support you with tools, expertise and a shared commitment to growing ministry together.

Stephen Ministry

Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

Galatians 6:2

This month five members of our congregation will complete the Stephen Ministry Training Class after 20 weeks of studying, classes, and practice. Please pray for these exceptional individuals as they extend their new caring skills to the church, their families, and the community. Those continuing on to become Stephen Ministers will be commissioned on Sunday, June 15th.

If you are going through a difficult time in your life and would like the care of a Stephen Minister please speak with Pr Laura, Pr Sam, or one of our Stephen Leaders: Suzi Westmoreland, Molly Hall, or Laure Reynolds.

Dear Lord, as our newest Stephen Ministry trainees complete their studies, be with them in all that they do. Help them not to be anxious or fearful but to call upon you for strength, always remembering that their ministry is your ministry. Be with their care receivers as they open their doors and begin to walk the road to recovery. Bless these relationships that they may be a place of your love and healing. Amen

Bethlehem Serves

Mark your calendar for Bethlehem's annual Day of Service on Sunday, September 21st. We have a short worship service about 9 am and then participate in service projects onsite or at various locations in our community. Last year we had 13 projects that included working in the gardens at Ocean Knoll School, Car Wash, Hygiene Kits for Showers of Blessings, School Bags, First Responders Care Baskets and many more. The morning ends with an all church picnic on the lawn about 11:30 am Mona Goetsch and Jana Hegg will be contacting people to lead the various groups.

Food Drive

THANK YOU for supporting St. Andrews Food Pantry. We collected about 50 bags of groceries during our Lenten food drive and raised $2000 to send directly to St. Andrews to purchase necessary food items. The pantry is distributing groceries every Thursday to about 220 families. Thank you for all that you do!

Prayer Chain

Are you or someone that you know and love in need of prayer? The BLC Prayer Chain is a virtual space where we can share prayer concerns with one another, hold each other in prayer, and support one another during times of need. You can share your prayer requests by clicking here. On that same page you can also sign up to receive prayer requests when they are sent out, so that we might hold one another in prayer, light, and love.

Volunteers Needed for Sat. Breakfast at St. Andrews

Volunteers Needed! Saturday Breakfast at St. Andrews - Our mission to feed the hungry a hot breakfast each Saturday is starting back up again, and the kitchen at St. Andrew’s is now open for business. Bethlehem will be preparing breakfast on the 4th Saturday of each month. We need 6 volunteers to crack and scramble 6 doz. eggs, cook 60 hash browns, 13 lbs. of bacon, make 80 pancakes and serve up plates with a smile! Click below to volunteer!

Opportunities to Engage

Qigong/Tai chi -The weekly Qigong/Tai chi practices at our church is available by Zoom. You are able to join online from your computer on Wednesdays at 6 pm. Also, Chacha is having a Friday at 9 am practice by Zoom.

These practices are moving meditation practices that focus on relaxation, breath, and visualization while carrying out gentle movements. Everyone is welcome, no previous experience is necessary. If you are interested in joining please e-mail Chacha at chachapinillap@gmail.com. Please let her know which of the practices or if you would like to be invited to both practices. She will send an e-mail invitation with the zoom link.

Scraps and Prayers - This ministry sews quilts for people in need of comfort and care. We meet each Wednesday morning from 9am-11am in the Multi-Use Room. We need your help sewing and tying quilts. No experience necessary! Stop by for an hour or stay for the whole morning; we'd love to share our scraps and prayers with you. For more information, contact Bobby Allen at roberta798@aol.com or Laure Reynolds at laurereyn@roadrunner.com.

Pastor Sam's Sermon Blog

Did you miss one of Pastor Sam's sermons? Want to double check if he actually said what you think he did? Accidentally fall asleep and want to go back and read the section you missed? Check out all of Pastor Sam's sermons on his blog at: https://sinningboldlywithsam.wordpress.com/

Global Mission "Global Links" E-Newsletter

Rooted and built in Jesus! This is the core of our work as the ELCA walks with more than 80 companion churches in other countries to participate in God's reconciling mission through proclamation and service. Participating in these relationships, ELCA members see how people's lives are touched by the gospel, how their lives are transformed and renewed, and how their communities live in hope. If you would like to receive the ELCA Global Mission e-newsletter "Global Links", please click on the following link to subscribe: https://community.elca.org/elca-email-subscriptions

Bethlehem Cares Fund

Bethlehem Cares Fund: For members of Bethlehem, we have a fund to assist you with temporary financial needs such as medical, home, family or personal needs.Contact Pastor Laura, Pastor Sam, Rose Moldenhauer or Molly Hall. If you are able to contribute to the fund please mark your gift to BLC with the notation Bethlehem Cares.

Newsletters Available on Our Website

Have you missed one of our monthly e-newsletters? Have you wished you could open up that newsletter again to get that bit of information you were looking for? Well, now you can. On our Newsletter Archive page there are links available to view current and past newsletters.

Bethlehem Lutheran Church

www.blcenc.org