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Make Me a Servant . . .

"But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it....  to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ."  Eph 4:7, 11-12

Serve as an Individual

  • Acolytes
  • Greeters
  • Information Counter
  • New Member Host
   Worship in the Lutheran tradition has a richness and depth that can bring great meaning to those who value symbolism and biblical imagery.  Candles are a wonderful symbol in the church -- usually associated with celebrations.  But candles are also an important symbol of Jesus Christ, who is the light of the world.
   Acolytes help us focus our attention on Christ by lighting the candles in the sanctuary at the beginning of worship services.  They start by lighting their wicks from the Christ Candle --  our light comes from Christ, who invites us to "let your light shine before men."
   Acolytes are young people in grades 5 through 8 who serve in this role as one way of helping them to recognize that they are a vital part of the body of Christ, the church.
   Who was that first welcoming person you met when you came to Bethlehem?  Isn't it great when you come to a new place and someone really cares that you are there?  That is what our Guest Host Ministry tries to accomplish.  More than just a handshake at the door, Guest Hosts are there to really welcome with warmth and depth.  Need to know where the nursery is?  Ask the Host.  Want to know how to get to the balcony?  Ask the host.  Want to be sure to meet the pastor?  Ask the host.  Hosts are eager to learn the names of our guests; eager to make everyone feel special; eager to assist in any way with the needs of our guests.
   Purpose: To provide answers to inquiries regarding worship, child care, building locations, current activities and ministry life of the congregation.
   Volunteers staff the information counter before and after worship services and serve on an occasional basis depending on the number of volunteers available.
   Many of those who become members of Bethlehem Lutheran Church are already connected to others through family or friends.  But many are not.  This ministry seeks to ensure that every new member is welcomed by a friendly and familiar face.
   New Member Hosts can be very creative in their style of developing relationships -- A few phone calls; an invitation to coffee or lunch.  Or perhaps an invitation to a concert of special event.  In any event, its a real blessing to know and recognize a friend when you're new -- especially one who eager to see you as well.
   For more information about becoming, or connecting with, a New Member Host contact Bob Fossum.

 

 

 

Serve in a Group or on a Committee

  • Board of Elders
  • Trustees
  • Altar Guild
   At Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Elders are assigned to communicate with families about events at church and to assist with personal prayers and other spiritual needs.
   During each worship service,  one or more Elders are on duty to handle the details of public worship while the pastor is occupied and to assist in the distribution of Communion.
   The board of Elders also serves as a "spiritual accountability" sounding-board for the pastors and staff.  This ensures that our leaders are faithful to the calling God has given them -- the clear proclamation of the Gospel and the administration of the sacraments according to Christ's institution.
   The Trustees are responsible for a multitude of tasks including  grounds maintenance and landscaping, facilities upkeep including plumbing and electrical troubleshooting and repairs, painting, and small building projects such as shelves.
   Trustees also participate in planning changes in the church facilities such as new and future expansions and assist with execution of property documents.
   All Bethlehem members are eligible to be nominated and elected to a position as Trustee by the congregation.
   Prior to every worship service, members of Bethlehem's Altar Guild prepare the altar area with the necessary linens, paraments, candles and communion ware.  Members likewise assist with the care and maintenance of these articles.
   Each January, members are invited to a fellowship get-together for the purpose of reflecting on the past year of service and to plan the volunteer schedule for the coming year.
   Individuals and family groups are encouraged to serve and training is provided.