Bethlehem Lutheran Church

As the programatic year kicked off in early September I was struck by how the first Wednesday night was more fun than a high school or college reunion.  I had a meeting to attend, but along the way I kept bumping into people I hadn't had a chance to connect with for quite some time.  It was good to catch up with each other.  I arrived at the meeting late (sorry about that), but with an extra bounce in my step.  I was reminded about why my enthusiasm, energy and commitment to this place continues to grow-it is because of the many people in this community who share their stories and are willing to listen to mine.  I value these relationships and at the same time feel valued by them.

When we connect with others we are encouraged and find comfort for life's journey.  We are assured that we do not travel alone. We are reminded that there is strength in numbers!  John Ortberg writes:  "Our need for community with people and the God who made us is to the human spirit what food and air and water are to the human body." Through worship and God's word this community is committed to creating a space in which people are able to experience the Holy.  But sometimes, even when we experience the Holy, it can seem difficult to make meaningful connections with people in a church as big as Bethlehem. That is why even as we grow bigger as a congregation, we are committed to growing smaller at the same time.

There are many and various small groups at Bethlehem that meet at different times and places and for different purposes.  There are knitters and quilters, bikers and book groups and Bible studies.  New groups are being created all the time.  Just a few weeks ago a group called Crosstown started to meet.  This group is a great opportunity for younger adults to connect and to grow together in faith.  Melissa Lock has recently passed the small group ministry baton to Wendy Osman.  So if you're curious about ways to connect in meaningful ways with others at Bethlehem, please contact Wendy, 612.312.3363, wosman@bethlehem-church.org.  Also, please check out the Connecting Point event on October 23, 7:00 pm.  Schedules are often busy or unpredictable so this new ministry makes it easy to connect with others in a small group without having to commit to more than 6 weeks at a time.

There is a line from the musical Les Miserables that says "To love another person is to see the face of God."  Every person you see is an opportunity to come into the presence of God.  God created community.  When we are part of a community, we enter into God's very purpose and plan for us.  In community we discover the joy of being known and of knowing others.  In community we experience the power of what it means to belong.  I am blessed to be a part of this community.  It is a great source of strength for me on my life's journey. I am delighted to know so many interesting people and feel blessed to be known by them.  If you are already feeling very connected to others, remember to thank each other for the blessing of your relationship.  If you are looking to connect in meaningful ways with others...so is everyone else...so ask some questions, do some research and I'm confident you'll find what it is you're looking for.

Blessings to you-

Pastor Mary