Stewardship at Bethlehem
The essential goal of the stewardship ministry at Bethlehem is to help focus our hearts and our lives on the things that really matter. By growing in our faith, helping others, and being good stewards of the abundance that God has given us, we can focus on the richness of being rather than the richness of having.
As part of building our relationship with God, each year we ask you to give a gift of gratitude for God's blessings. Your annual giving strengthens our church and allows us to be part of a community of faith that makes a difference in people's lives.
For more information about Stewardship at Bethlehem please contact Chris Haugen at 612-312-3402 or chaugen@bethlehem-church.org.
Have you seen the new Giving Kiosk located in Bethlehem's Gallery?
The Giving Kiosk is located in the Gallery next to the courtyard doors. The kiosk can be used to make donations and/or payments to Bethlehem with the swipe of your major credit/debit card (Visa/Mastercard/Discover cards accepted). Access to your Bethlehem account can be initiated by either entering your primary phone number or, if we do not have a phone number on file, by creating a new account by entering information requested via the kiosk prompts.
Chris Farrell Coming to Bethlehem
Tuesday, January 29, 7:00 pm
in the Bethlehem Sanctuary
Chris Farrell is Economics Editor for Marketplace Money, American Public Media nationally syndicated public radio personal finance program. An award winning journalist, Chris is a regular contributor to Marketplace Morning Report and chief economics correspondent for American Public Media's documentary unit, American Radio Works and Minnesota Public Radio.
Chris will speak on Generosity in a Recovering Economy. He will take audience questions. No charge for this exciting opportunity. Bring your friends. Come early to get a good seat!
Year End Giving
As always, we thank you for your continued commitment to and support of Bethlehem. If you are considering a year-end gift to church, here are some ways to give:
· Stock: A gift of stock can be deducted from your income tax at fair market value and will allow you to avoid capital gains tax.
· Simply Giving and Auto Give with your local Bank: This may be a good time to consider electronic giving either through Simply Giving or auto give/bill pay through your local Bank. These are both convenient ways to give because there’s no need to write checks or bring cash to church, and Bethlehem receives your contribution even if you are unable to attend. In addition, debit/credit cards have been added to the Simply Giving option if you would prefer to give to Bethlehem via this method.
If you have any questions, please contact Chris at 612.312.3402 or chaugen@bethlehem-church.org. Please note that year end gifts must be postmarked or received in the church office by Monday, December 31st and that stock gifts take a few extra days to process. Additionally, please use a 2012 giving envelope or indicate in the memo line of your check that your gift is for 2012. Any gifts in a 2013 envelope will be considered gifts for the New Year!
Designating Your Thrivent Choice Dollars
Starting in 2010 you can designate Bethlehem as the recipient of your Thrivent Choice Dollars, a program for Thrivent members. Those eligible for "Choice Dollars" can help direct Thrivent Financial's charitable dollars to nonprofit organizations and congregations. If you are a Thrivent member and would like to direct your "Choice Dollars" please visit https://www.thrivent.com/thriventchoice/ or email Thrivent at mail@thrivent.com.