Bethany Lutheran Church 8 South Lincoln Street, Batavia, IL 60510 - 630.879.3444
Bethany Messenger
From Pastor Scott
My first two weeks here at Bethany have been quite
active and very enjoyable. Everyone in the office is so
helpful and the spirit of cooperation and teamwork is
most evident. And talk about an awesome coffee hour-
wow! I am a person that struggles a little when writing about myself,
but I will give it a go.
I have had an eclectic work life and vocational life over the years. I’ve
worked in the steel and construction industries, was an engineer for
NASA, as well as a professional free-lance writer. When I entered the
ministry, I believe all of these experiences prepared me for relating to
people from all walks of life. Prior to becoming a Chaplain, I was senior
pastor of a church in the Northwest suburbs for five years. Chaplaincy
enabled me to become a good listener; to truly hear what people
were saying; the words behind the words if you will. I have enjoyed my
ministry positions and I am thrilled to be back in the church setting
once again.
My primary function here at Bethany is to provide guidance in calling
your next pastor. It has been a blessing that I am currently chair of the
call committee at my home church and have learned many things
that I can pass along to Bethany. I will share these “lessons learned”
with the council so that the church’s ministry profile reflects the
characteristics of your next called pastor that the congregation
desires.
In my short time here, I have found Bethany to be a church that really
has their act together. The next called pastor will not only be a blessing
to Bethany, but Bethany will be a blessing to that pastor. Although I
will not be a participant with the call committee, I will do everything I
can to provide guidance so that Bethany gets the best possible
pastor. I ask that the congregation pray that the Holy Spirit be a major
component in this process.
Thank you for the warm welcome I have received!
God bless,
Pastor Scott
Our Mission Called and empowered by
God’s grace in Christ Jesus,
we WORSHIP God,
Grow in FAITH, and
REACH OUT to others
Inside This Issue
From Pastor Scott Page 1
From Beth Page 2
Worship God Page 3
Grow in Faith Page 3
From Our Parish Nurse Page 4
Reach Out to Others Page 4
In Our Prayers Page 7
Upcoming Events Page 9
Important Stuff Page 10
In the Community Page 12
Save the Date Page 13
Council Highlights Page 14
Synod Assembly News Page 14
Pictures Page 16
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From Beth
For everyone’s enjoyment once again the poem from June 9th worship service:
Lutherans at worship
are more likely to roll their eyes,
than roll down the aisles.
We have Christmas and Easter
down cold,
but are fuzzy about Pentecost,
thinking it has something to do with
paying five times what something cost.
We’re pretty sure the understanding
between differing peoples on Pentecost
was to prepare Norwegians, Swedes, and Germans
for the day they would be in one church.
Lutherans can sing
“Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee”
without cracking a smile.
We shout at sports events
and whisper the Apostles’ Creed.
We believe Jesus is the Savior of the World
and our own personal Savior,
we just think it’s too personal to discuss.
Most of us have been evangelized
at some point in our lives
by a lutefisk zealot,
but never converted.
Lutheran scientists are working on vaccines
to ease the side effects
from learning new hymns and liturgies.
We eagerly encourage change
for other churches
and will consider it for ourselves,
unless it has something to do with removing pew
cushions,
changing the sanctuary carpet color,
or doing away with Sunday coffee hour.
We think every believer should be a tither,
especially Baptists.
Lutherans don’t take every word
in the Bible literally,
and do not memorize “proof texts,”
unless such helps us prove a point.
We require four years beyond college
to become pastors;
teaching them Greek, Hebrew,
and complicated theology;
all so they can speak to those
whose Christian learning stopped
at confirmation.
we can’t explain Holy communion
and we like it that way.
We are quick to help those in need,
while slow to admit
we need help ourselves.
Lutherans have a tried and
true motto,
“When the going gets tough,
form a committee.”
Yes, we can laugh at ourselves
because we can imagine
God laughing at us.
Although we may not always look
like the Pentecost Church,
we are what God’s got,
and that’s all
the Holy Spirit needs.
There my sisters and brothers,
is the miracle of Pentecost!
By Rev. Arlyn Tolzmann
Supply Pastor, June 9, 2019
Warm Blessings, Beth
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Worship God
July Lessons
Pentecost 4: July 7th
Isaiah 66:10-14
Psalm 66:1-9
Galatians 6:[1-6] 7-16
Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
Pentecost 5: July 14th
Deuteronomy 30:9-14
Psalm 25:1-10
Colossians 1:1-14
Luke 10:25-37
Pentecost 6: July 21th
Genesis 18:1-10a
Psalm 15
Colossians 1:15-28
Luke 10:38-42
Pentecost 7: July 28th
Genesis 18:20-32
Psalm 138
Colossians 2:6-15 [16-19]
Luke 11:1-13
Music this Summer
We are looking for people to sing/play for the 9:00am worship services this summer. A piano piece,
a duet with a friend or parent, an instrumental piece – we would love to have you be part of the
worship service. If you need some assistance in selecting a piece, Beth would be glad to help.
This is open to everyone. Please share your gift of music in worship this summer.
Choir du jour, the Men’s Choir, and the Women’s Choir will also be making appearances. Watch
for rehearsal times.
Summer Worship Schedule
The Worship Service Schedules for June, July, August is:
Sunday: (Traditional Service)
9am in the Sanctuary with 10am Coffee Hour in the Fellowship Hall following worship
Midweek Summer Worship: (The service will be informal, with Holy Communion, and will last about 45 minutes.)
Wednesdays, 6pm in the Chapel
Grow in Faith
Bethany Women - Circle Meetings
Hope Circle Monday, July 8th at Noon in Fellowship Hall
Kindness Circle Off for the Summer
Charity Circle Off for the Summer
Join a Circle now! Enjoy fellowship, fun and spiritual growth with other Bethany Women.
Theology on Tap
"Theology On Tap" will continue on Tuesdays at 7:00pm at the Gammon House in Batavia. We hope to lead this
with the current Lectionary readings. It should be a good discussion. See you there!
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From Our Parish Nurse
Healthy Cooking with Fresh Herbs
Fresh and fragrant, green and delicious, this time of year, herbs are filling our gardens, produce bins and local
farmers’ markets. Herbs offer a number of health benefits, along with bountiful flavors when added to our recipes.
Herbs are filled with antioxidants that have powerful disease fighting properties that are anti-inflammatory and
also specific herbs are anti-microbial.
Herbs are low in calories and have all the flavor and aroma that can keep us from eating too much fat, salt or
sugar. Here are a few that can easily be incorporated into your meals.
1. Basil: Sweet and mild basil, like many herbs, boasts antioxidants and essential oils. Delicious in caprese
salad, between juicy tomatoes and fresh mozzarella or whirled into a beautiful pesto, perfect for tossing
with pasta or drizzled over grilled fish or veggies.
2. Chives: Chives have a delicate onion flavor and like onions, they contain allicin which has been linked to
heart health. Snip and sprinkle on chicken, fish or scrambled eggs.
3. Cilantro: Perfect for tacos, fajitas, guacamole or any veggie dish that needs added pizzazz.
4. Dill: This delicate herb is a perfect companion for fish but also is delicious in scrambled eggs, goat cheese
or in a yogurt dip with fresh veggies.
5. Mint: This has essential oils that soothe and aid digestion. Fresh mint leaves fixed with lemon zest is the
perfect complement to a glass of tea.
6. Oregano: This is one of the hallmarks of all Italian, Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. Also pulse oregano,
lemons and capers to make a zesty marinade for grilled chicken, fish, eggplant or zucchini.
7. Parsley: Dark green and spikey parsley leaves contain amazingly high levels of vitamins C & K. Try adding
to salads for a wonderful addition. Also serve it with grilled chicken, lamb or hummus.
8. Rosemary: This herb is excellent for reducing inflammation and improving memory. My favorite way to use
this is a rub for chicken or ribs.
9. Sage: This one has many of the same benefits as rosemary and partners well with turkey, pork or winter
squash.
10. Thyme: Tops the list of herbs that are high in minerals, and packs a surprising amount of calcium and iron.
Great with roasted chicken or sautéed with mushrooms.
Fresh herbs are perishable, so the best thing to do is plant them in a small garden area or try container gardening
where you have access to them for all your meals. Also 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs equals 1 teaspoon dried
herbs. “Train children in the right way, and when old, they will not stray” Proverbs 22:6.
For any questions, assistance or resources to improve your health, contact me either by leaving me a message
at the parish office at 630-879-3444 or E-mail me at [email protected].
Peace,
Mary Stola RN, Faith Community Nurse
Reach Out to Others
School Supplies for LSSI and CHIP IN Students in need
Please help LSSI (Lutheran Social Services Illinois) help foster children in the Chicagoland by contributing
school supplies.
We are also collecting school supplies for the Batavia students in need through CHIP IN (Community
Helpers Impacting Children in Need).
If you can, buy an extra box of crayons or a notebook when you are shopping for school supplies.
Collection bin under the Resource Table through July 31st. Lists will be available on the Resource Table.
We thank you for your prayers and support of these children.
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Bethany Lutheran Church 8 South Lincoln Street, Batavia, IL 60510 - 630.879.3444
Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity
Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity is again building a home in Aurora
Scheduled to be completed in November
We at Bethany would like to donate a washer and dryer for the home
Our goal is to collect $1,500
Help to “buy a piece” (of the washer and dryer) by donating
Any amount of donation is acceptable
Envelopes for your donation are on the Resource Table
Questions: Contact a member of the Reach Team
Bethany is a participant of 2019 Faith Build Church
A MESSAGE FROM FOX VALLEY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity needs your help on a very important matter and it won’t cost you a penny. We are
looking for 5 more families that are currently renting or living with relatives that do not qualify with a bank for a
mortgage to buy their own home. These must be working low to moderate income families that only earn 30 - 80% of
the average median income.
We need your help because ALL of our Habitat families will tell you that they were not going to apply because they
were positive they would not be accepted. However, we specialize in families that banks won’t accept. Many families
are living in substandard apartments, moving frequently to find a better place to live, and many spend over half of
their income on rent. With Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity they can own a beautiful affordable home that never
exceeds 30% of their income. Give them a copy of this letter. Encourage them to apply. Often their mortgage
payment including principal, interest, taxes and insurance is LESS than the cost to rent.
Please help us find families that need our hand-up to transform their lives through affordable housing. It will make you
feel great and since we are a Christian housing ministry, we will all praise God for what He has done.
Please go to our website at www.foxvalleyhabitat.org to get more information or to have anyone apply.
Mutual Ground
Mutual Ground serves survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault through many
avenues including but not limited to shelter, legal advocacy, counseling, prevention
education in schools, and medical advocacy.
Throughout the year, we are continually looking for some items to help our clients as they
transition to a safe environment.
Here is our current list of needs for our clients:
Bath Towels
Hair Conditioner
Body Wash
Lotion
Paper Towels
Toilet Paper
Razors
Cleaning Supplies
Deodorant
African American Hair Products
For a more detailed list visit
www.mutualground.org
THANK YOU to those who have already GENEROUSLY contributed.
There will continue to be a bin available in the Lower Narthex for donations.
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Can You Help Feed Those in Need? - Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry Serving
Our Bethany family provides volunteers to staff the Batavia Food Pantry on the second Friday of each month.
Can you help? Haven’t done it before? No problem. New volunteers always welcome!
Friday, July12th
9:45am-Noon
Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry, 100 Flinn St., Batavia
Sign up on the yellow sheet if you plan to attend. Call the Church Office or Kathy Richmond
(630-429-3574 or email [email protected] if this is your first time volunteering or if you have questions.
Donated items may be dropped off at the shopping cart in the Lower Narthex. You may also visit their website:
bataviafoodpantry.org.
$1 donation buys $8 food from the Northern Illinois Food Bank, Money donations are always appreciated.
CURRENT NEEDS
Cereal
Fruit Juice
Tuna Fish
Canned Chili
Pancake Mix
Syrup
Plain Pasta
Macaroni and Cheese
White Rice
Condensed Soup (vegetable, chicken
noodle)
Ready to Eat Soups (all types)
Ramen Noodles
Ketchup and Mustard
Salad Dressing (Ranch and Italian)
Packaged Potatoes (Mashed, Scalloped)
Bars of Bath Soap
Kitchen Garbage Bag (13 gallon)
Ziploc Bags – all sizes
Paper Napkins
Aluminum Foil
Laundry Detergent
Paper Towels
Baby Food – all stages
Baby Formula
Applesauce
Salt & Pepper
Sugar
Cooking oil
Tomato Paste
Spaghetti Sauce (jar)
Canned Beans (Garbanzo, Black, Kidney)
Canned Fruit (all types)
Peanut Butter
Strawberry and Grape Jelly
Canned Tuna
Canned Chicken
Body wash
Disposable Razors
Deodorant/Antiperspirant
Toothpaste and toothbrushes (medium)
Diapers (all sizes)
Feminine Products (pads/tampons)
Bethany Community Supper
Friday, July 26th, 5:00-7:00pm
Menu: Tacos, Mexican Rice, and Black Beans
Sundae Bar, children’s menu and “To Go” are available
Can you help? Sign up in Fellowship Hall.
Want to just eat? Sign up on the yellow sheet if you are planning to attend.
Blood pressure screenings will be available.
Wanted:
Desserts to go with a scoop of ice cream, homemade or store-bought
Your donations of travel sized personal hygiene products such as soap, lotion, toothbrushes, toothpaste, baby
wipes, laundry detergent, deodorant, etc.
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Bethany Lutheran Church 8 South Lincoln Street, Batavia, IL 60510 - 630.879.3444
These items will be made available to attendees of the Community Supper
Jar and canned olives, pickles and baked goods are requested donations
If you are able to provide a donation, please bring them to the kitchen, labeled “Community Supper”
We served 185 meals in June.
Thank you for your prayers, your donations, and your help toward Bethany Community Supper
Bethany Youth Mission Trip
We have ten youth and two adults going to the Twin Cities from July 7-12. They will be doing a variety of mission
work tasks with Youthworks. Please pray for them as they serve those in need in a large urban setting.
Aidan
Thomas
Ryan
Parker
Owen
Ashlyn
Fiona
Reilly
Joslyn
Molly
Dale , Chaperone
Marty Chaperone
In Our Prayers
During the last month we prayed for those who are part of the life of Bethany
who struggle with illness and other concerns, especially:
Keith
Charlene
Doug
Billy
Peter
Dee Dee
Glenn
Bob
George
Ellen
Please pray for those in care facilities, especially:
Dorothy ...................... Harry J. Ekstam, Holmstad, Batavia
John ............................ Harry J. Ekstam, Holmstad, Batavia
Nancy ........................ Michealson Health Center, Batavia
Maxine ....................... Jennings Terrace, Aurora
Marilyn ........................ Park Manor, Holmstad, Batavia
Roz ............................... Bria Health Services, Geneva
Pam ............................ Heritage Woods, Batavia
Karl .............................. Brighton Gardens, St. Charles
Peter ........................... Michaelson Health Center, Batavia
Bette ........................... Bria Health Services, Geneva
Walt ............................ Park Manor, Holmstad, Batavia
Mildred ...................... The Reserve, Geneva
Joan ........................... Michealsen Health Center, Batavia
Pat ............................... Heritage Woods, Batavia
Shirley ......................... Town Center, Holmstad, Batavia
Irma ............................ Harry J. Ekstam, Holmstad, Batavia
Joyce ......................... GreenFields of Geneva, Geneva
Mariann ..................... Heritage Woods, Batavia
Marion ........................ Plum Landing, Aurora
Please pray for those homebound, especially:
Lois E, Helen, Jack
Please pray for those in military service, especially:
Xander
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Last month we prayed for our family and friends, especially:
Chuck ......................... Friend of Maureen
Dorothy ...................... Mother of Diane
Ken .............................. Friend of Carol & Larry
Andy ........................... Friend of Carol & Larry
Don ............................. Uncle of Diane
Derrick ........................ Friend of Christina
Rachel ........................ Friend of Tom & Dee
Mary ............................ Daughter of Nita
Matt ............................ Friend of Andy & Kim
Joe .............................. Friend of Kathy
Bob .............................. Father of Bob
Connie ....................... Daughter of Nancy
Stacy ........................... Sister of Rick
Dolores ....................... Mother of Charlene
Olivia Grace .............. Great niece of Carol
Teri ............................... Sister of Sue & Bob
Tony ............................ Brother-in-Law of Sue & Bob
Kathy .......................... Friend of Sue Novy
Diane .......................... Friend of Ed Schalk
Kathryn ....................... Friend of Luke & Diane
Shirley ......................... Friend of Billy & Darlene
Jo ................................. Friend of Lois
Taye ............................ Friend of Beth & Kathi
Kirsten .......................... Friend of Lynne
Kelly .............................. Granddaughter of Eva
Healing for a family member John & Sherry
Bill ................................. Friend of Luke & Diane
Melissa ......................... Friend of Luke & Diane
Kyle .............................. Family of Luke & Diane
Larry ............................. Brother-in-Law of Bill
Wally ............................ Lynne’s daughter Teri’s Father-in-
law
Birthdays This Month
July 1 Madison
2 Cindy
2 Thomas
2 Talene
3 John ggins
3 Molly
3 Adeline
4 Trevor
7 Savannah
8 Bob
8 Karen
9 Alyssa
10 Carson
11 Alice
11 Kaitlyn
12 Collette
14 Karen
15 Leslie
15 Callum
15 Bianca
15 Pauline
17 Elizabeth
18 John
20 Lynn
21 Annaka
21 Emily
22 Christine
23 James
24 Walt
24 Rich
25 Hannah
26 Lois
26 Brittany
26 Malissa
27 Tom
27 Carleigh
30 Werner
30 Adele
31 Connie
31 Fiona
31 Nate
Anniversaries This Month
July 1 Sue & Lee
1 Maureen & Scotty
1 Danise & Bruce mons 2 Ann & James
9 Ann & Greg
10 Norma & Roger
13 Tracy & Matt
14 Shanna & Pete
19 Connie & Don
19 Ann & Fred
22 Jenny & Chris
24 Julie & Dale
24 Becky & Nick
27 Katie & Matt
30 Kari & Ed McQuillan
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Bethany Lutheran Church 8 South Lincoln Street, Batavia, IL 60510 - 630.879.3444
Upcoming Events
Singles Supper Club
• Singles Supper Club will be meeting July 14th and going to Port Edwards in Algonquin
• We will meet at church and depart at 3:00pm and take the church van or carpool
Sewing Sisters
Like to sew but for some reason you never get to it? How about sewing with a group of friends? Saturday, July
27th from 12:30am – 1:00pm the Sewing Sisters will meet in the Sewing Room in the Ministry Center, M111. Come
join us.
Have a Bean Coffee – 3rd Sunday of Every Month
Available for $10 a bag: whole beans, ground, and K-cups all in both decaf and regular
Tea is also available
Second Chance coffee, provides jobs for those who have been incarcerated and need work
to get back on their feet
Cards are available to meet those who are working for the company and how these jobs help
them move ahead
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Thursday, July 25th
1:00pm
Panera, downtown Batavia
Bring your needles and join the fellowship and fun
Cougars Family Night
We will be scheduling a Family Night at a Cougar’s Game for this summer.
Watch for the date and time in the Sunday Messenger Update
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Important Stuff
Why Go Lutheran: A Website for ELCA Colleges & Universities
ELCA colleges and universities have a helpful website – for students and parents as they embark on the college
search process. On the site families can:
Learn more about the value of the Lutheran college experience
Read about the distinctive features of a Lutheran liberal arts education
Complete one simple form to request college information from individual institutions
http://whygolutheran.org/
2019-20 Flower Calendar!
Would you like to donate flowers for the altar in honor of someone, to celebrate a
special occasion, or perhaps in memory of a loved one?
Sign-up chart posted on the Bulletin Board in the Fellowship Hall, or call the Church Office
(630-879-3444) if you are interested
Please indicate your name and the occasion celebrated or the individual to be honored
or remembered
Flowers may be taken home after worship on the date of donation
Sign up to Serve at Coffee/ Fellowship Hour on Sundays, it’s EASY!
Our Sunday Coffee Hour depends on our volunteers!
Call the Church Office for more information
Sign-up sheet is posted in Fellowship Hall
***We are also accepting donations of cookies and pastries that freeze well. The items
will be used for coffee hour when needed. Call or e-mail the Church Office for more
information, 630-879-3444, [email protected])
Seeking Sunday School Teacher Teams
Please consider serving on a Sunday School Teacher Team for the 2019-2020
school year at Bethany Lutheran Church. We are implementing a Teacher Team
approach, to share the responsibilities (and entertainment!) of teaching. A
background in education is not a pre-requisite, but having fun is!
Sunday School Teacher Team positions may include grades Kindergarten through
5th grade, based on your particular interest. Teachers can help in designing new
curriculum, or use curriculum that has been used before. Let’s talk!
Background checks will be conducted on all teachers.
Contact any member of the Children and Family Ministry Team or Beth if you are interested (Karen Bunting, Jori
Toles, or Katie Carter, or email [email protected]).
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Bethany Lutheran Church 8 South Lincoln Street, Batavia, IL 60510 - 630.879.3444
Nursery Volunteers Needed
One of the best things Bethany has been able to offer to our young families is
nursery care during the worship service
If you or someone you know would be interested in helping fill this need, or
want to know what is involved, please give the office a call, contact Beth, or
indicate your interest on the yellow sheet so we can contact you
The Nursery will need an Adult volunteer each Sunday. Without a volunteer the
Nursery room will be open but unstaffed
If you are willing to help, please contact the Church Office
Recycled Eyeglasses
In many areas, people are unable to work or even be involved in routine activities because of
vision problems. Eyeglasses are not readily available or are simply unaffordable.
Our Reach Team collects old eyeglasses and sends them to the Lions/Lioness Club for distribution
to those in need.
Please put your cast-off glasses and sunglasses (no loose lenses or empty frames)
in the special box on the Coat Rack next to the Church Office.
Thank you to all who filled the box over the past several years!
Headed for College or ?:
We’d love to stay in touch with all of Bethany’s high school/college graduates, so please send
us your/their new e-mail address and snail-mail address to [email protected], or write
them on the yellow sheet when you are in church. The Sunday School Youth would like to send
care packages in the near future.
News from Rwanda – Rev. Janelle Nuebauer
Bethany supports Pastor Janelle Nuebauer who is a missionary in Rwanda. Currently, a part of Pr. Janelle’s 18-19
team is a Batavia local Claire Heronemus.
Check out the latest on YAGM Rwanda Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/yagmrwanda/)
See the Fellowship Hall Bulletin Board for a printed copy of the latest newsletter from Pastor Janelle as she
she shares her experiences in Rwanda.
What does YAGM stand for? It stands for Young Adults in Global Mission, an ELCA mission program open to
young adults ages 21-29. It is a year long journey in international service in varous countries across the globe.
Current YAGM country programs include:
Argentina/Uruguay, Australia, Cambodia, Central Europe, Jerusalem/West Bank, Madagascar, Mexico,
Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, and United Kingdom.
If you are interest visit www.elca.org for more information. Applications for the program open on December 1st
of each year and are due by February 15th. Service begins in August of the same year.
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Become a Bethany History Buff
Have you ever wondered how far back Bethany’s roots go?
Bethany’s roots go back to St. Charles where the Society of Scandinavian Lutheran Church in St. Charles
was officially started on January 21, 1853.
In the Community
Vacation Bible School
Theme is “Beyond the Gold”
Monday through Friday, July 15th - July 19th
9:00am-12:15pm
Boys and Girls, ages 4 – 12, enjoy our very popular sports camp every summer!
Choose from the following activities:
o Basketball
o Soccer
o Cheerleading
o Arts & Crafts
o Team 45 (4 & 5 year olds)
Featuring Christian coaches, quality sports instruction, positive role models, daily Bible times,
skits and fun!
Every Camper Receives: A camp T-shirt, daily take home bible studies, and daily snacks
Register on-line: www.bethanybatavia.org, Registration fee is $35
VBS Volunteers needed!!!
Come hang out with some awesome kids? We need you!
Call the church office (630.879.3444) to sign up or for more information.
(Do not have to be available every day)
Vacation Bible School – Snack Donations
VBS snack donation collection has begun
Bin located under the Resource Source table in the Lower Narthex
Possible snack ideas (nut free): Gold Fish, Animal Crackers, Pretzels, Fruit Snacks, Granola Bars,
Fresh Fruit (ex. Grapes, Apples, Bananas) etc…
Elderday Update
We have been informed that Elderday will resume operations with a soft opening on August 5th here at Bethany.
There will be a Grand Opening on September 2nd. Michael Cobb is the new Executive Director and he comes
with experience and enthusiasm.
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Bethany Lutheran Church 8 South Lincoln Street, Batavia, IL 60510 - 630.879.3444
Be a Literacy Volunteer!
Help adults learn English! Tutor training will be held
Tuesdays and Thursdays (July 16, 18, 23, and 25)
6:30pm to 9:00pm
At the St. Charles Library
For more information or to register call/text 630.584.4428 or visit www.lvfv.org
Great Western Freedom 4, Lazarus House Charity Run
Thursday, July 4th
8:00am
LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, St. Charles
4-mile Competitive Run, 2 Mile Scenic Walk, Kids Dash
Registration is open for runners and walkers who wish to participate in the 2019 July 4th Great Western Freedom
4 to benefit Lazarus House. Last year about 350 patriotic participants started their holiday out at LeRoy Oakes
Forest Preserve running, walking, or dashing to help their neighbors in need.
Participants can collect pledges to increase their giving however it is not required. Forms are available with a
link from the registration web page. www.lazarushouse.net
All proceeds benefit Lazarus House, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit Emergency Shelter, Center for Transitional Living,
and Outreach Program for men, women, and children who are homeless or in crisis from Batavia, Geneva, St.
Charles, or western rural Kane County.
Additional information can be found online at www.lazarushouse.net or by calling Darlene at 630-587-2144.
Save the Date
Bethany Women’s Luncheon
Sunday, July 28th
12:00pm – 2:00pm, Fellowship Hall
Salad Luncheon with a program to follow
The program will be given by Anthony Tortoriello, a photographer who has traveled extensively, but is
now back in the area to be closer to his mother who is at Heritage Woods. His photography program is
a visual slideshow showcasing the beauty of the area and of God's creation that surrounds us. He will
also talk a bit about how he is here caring for his elderly Mother with dementia and how he uses
photography to help balance out the stress involved with being a caregiver.
Hope to see you there!
21st Annual Hunger Scramble Golf Outing
You're invited to the 21st Annual Hunger Scramble Golf Outing presented by West Suburban Bank! Join us at
Cantigny Golf Club on August 27 for a full day of golf, food and drinks and networking! This fun, scramble-style
outing features on-course tastings, giveaways and scenic views. Stay for the 19th Hole Reception at the
Clubhouse, where you'll enjoy food, an open bar, a silent auction and raffle prizes. Your support will help
provide groceries for our hungry neighbors in Northern Illinois. Contact Kate Thomas with any questions
([email protected] or 630-443-6910 ext. 117).
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Craft Fair for Mutual Ground
Do you make crafts? – quilts, paintings, woodworking, sewing, knitting, crocheting…?
We will have a Craft Fair on Saturday, November 2nd
The proceeds of the table rental and the sale of Bethany items will go to Mutual
Ground
We need people willing to donate their crafts or to rent a table to sell their items.
We will also need people to:
o Help with set up
o Prepare food
o Donate baked goods
o Taking tickets at the raffle table
o Greeting people at the door
o Other duties as assigned
o There will be something for everyone
We are beginning the planning, but if you have questions or donations, please
contact Beth or Jonelle Mickelson
Council Highlights
Approved congregation survey to gather information for the Call Committee
Set Council installation for July 14th
Approved Pastor Scott’s housing allowance
Elected Council Officers
o President – Rick McKiness
o Vice-President – Lynn Dreymiller
o Secretary – Doug Clark
o Treasurer – Steve Mickelson
Discussed Liaison Assignments which will be decided on next month
Synod Assembly News
Report on the 32nd Annual Assembly Metropolitan Chicago Synod, ELCA
Meeting in assembly from June 7 to 8, 2019, at the Tinley Park Convention Center, Tinley Park,
Illinois, the synod elected a new bishop to serve for the next six years. Bishop-elect Curry was
elected on the fifth ballot, with 258 votes. The Rev. Heidi Torgerson, director for mission personnel
and leadership formation, ELCA Global Mission, received 226 votes. The bishop-elect has served
as pastor of Shekinah Chapel Lutheran Church in Riverdale, Illinois, since 2013. He served as
mission developer of Shekinah from 2007 to 2012. He is replacing Bishop Wayne N. Miller, who is retiring August 31,
2019, after two terms.
After the first ecclesiastical ballot for bishop, Bishop Miller gave his report in which he looked at the strengths,
weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the synod moving forward. He closed his report by thanking the
assembly for the privilege of serving as bishop for the past 12 years. A reception in Bishop Miller’s honor was held
Friday night of the assembly. Following the Bishop’s Report, the assembly heard the ELCA Report from Bishop-
elect Kevin Strickland, who chaired the ballot for bishop and served as the ELCA Churchwide Office
Representative, and Vice President Terry Henderson presented the Sunergos Award to former Vice President
Nanette Dahlke.
Over the two days of plenaries, the assembly heard reports from the synod officers and from partner ministries
including: Portico Benefit Services, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, the ELCA Credit Union, ELCA Campus
Ministry, and Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service. In addition, participants heard eight mission moments,
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Bethany Lutheran Church 8 South Lincoln Street, Batavia, IL 60510 - 630.879.3444
coordinated by the synod’s Mission Interpreter Network, telling the story of congregations and partner ministries
making a difference in their local communities, nationally, and around the world. Opportunities to attend
workshops and hearings were held in two sessions on Friday afternoon.
After devotions on Saturday morning, the budget was approved as presented, and two resolutions and one
memorial were debated and adopted. The memorial MEM. 01-19 On Supporting the Adoption of the
Recommended Proposed Social Statement Faith, Sexism, and Justice: A Lutheran Call to Action was adopted as
presented, and the resolution RES. 01-19 On Supporting the Adoption of the Recommended Proposed Social
Statement Faith, Sexism, and Justice: A Lutheran Call to Action, was also adopted as presented. RES. 02-19 On
Dealing with Depression and Intentional Death (or Suicide) in Our Churches was adopted as amended.
Elections to synod council and the committees on discipline and consultation were all by acclamation as all
names ran unopposed. The bolded names are conference nominees. Names with an asterisk are for People of
Color/Language Other. The Conference Key is: C = Central; N = North; NE = Northeast; NrW = Near West; NW =
Northwest; S = South; SW = South West; W = West.
Elected to the synod council were: Jennifer De Leon * (C); Rev. Jason Glombicki (C) Rodger Jones Jr. * (C); Rev.
Tim Linstrom (N); Dcn. Tracy Katschke (N); Rev. Erik Christensen (NE); Rev. JoAnn Post (NE); Rev. Eric Worringer (NE);
Pam Willey (NW); Charles Willett Jr. * (SW); Rev. Joe Yucha (W); Rev. Amy Aimonette (W); and Rebecca Payne
(NE, Young Adult).
Elected to the Committee on Discipline were: Rev. Gwendolyn Miller * (S); Rev. Keith Fry (NE); Rev. John Freidheim
(NrW); and Patricia Harper * (S).
Elected to the Committee on Consultation were: Nanette Dahlke (N); Rev. Thomas Gaulke (NE); Rev. Julie Boleyn
(NrW); Rev. Terry Baeder (SW), and Rev. Steven Srock (W).
After a closing prayer and the Order for the Closing of an Assembly, the day ended with a Celebration of the
Holy Eucharist to which all were invited. The offering of $3,005 was sent to Lutheran Immigration and Refugee
Service.
Photographs, election results, and final resolutions, are available at www.mcselca.org/assembly.
Anyone interested in reading Bishop Miller’s report it is available at the following and there is a copy posted on
the bulletin board in Fellowship Hall.
http://www.mcselca.org/Bishop_Report_Text_2019.pdf
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Pictures
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Bethany Lutheran Church 8 South Lincoln Street, Batavia, IL 60510 - 630.879.3444
Synod Assembly 2019
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Thank You
Thank You
Thank you for your generous gifts to the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry and Clothes Closet.
The staff at Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry and Clothes Closet
**See the Bulletin Board in the Fellowship Hall for Thank You Letters**
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Bethany Lutheran Church 8 South Lincoln Street, Batavia, IL 60510 - 630.879.3444
Staff & Council
Church Staff:
Interim Pastor .....................................................Rev. Scott Castello
Visitation Pastor* ............................................... Rev. Steven Ritter
Director of Music/Pastoral Associate ............. Beth Lawniczak
Administrative Assistant* ................................... Kathi Gorlewski
Administrative Assistant* ............................... Darlene Hutchens
Administrative Assistant* .................................. Lura Dreymilller
Financial Secretary* .............................................. Maureen Scollon
Organist* ................................................................................ Alan Spear
Parish Nurse* ....................................................................... Mary Stola
Nursery Attendant* ....................................................................... Open
(* Part-time)
Congregation Council:
Charlene Boehm ..................................................................President
Rick McKiness....................................... Vice-President/Property
Lynn Dreymiller ........................... Secretary/Worship & Music
Steve Mickelson ............................................... Treasurer/Finance
Charley Andersen .................................................... Memorial Gifts
Kelli Coonrod ............................................................................... Youth
Molly Cox .............................................................. Children & Family
Andrea Gustafson.................................................................... Service
Carie Holzl ....................................................................... Stewardship
Marty Offutt-Gruber ...................................................... Evangelism
Laura Peterson ................................................... Adult Discipleship
Doug Clark ............................................................................. Personnel
Website: www.bethanybatavia.org
View recent sermons, Sunday’s Update/weekly news, The Messenger
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/BethanyBatavia/
Share your Bethany events, post your pictures, and see what’s new
Worship Broadcast BATV Cable Channel: Bethany's worship services are broadcast on BATV Cable channel 17 on Mondays 4:30pm & 10:30pm,
Tuesdays at 10:30am/pm, 4:30am/pm and Wednesdays 4:30am & 10:30am. Access programming online at: mybatv.com.
BATV is available on Comcast Channel 17, and on AT&T U-verse Channel 99 across N. Illinois.
Links to Resources and Events
Aurora University Events
alumni.aurora.edu
Elderday Center
www.elderdaycenter.org
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America
www.ELCA.org
Fermilab Public Events
events.fnal.gov
Hesed House
www.hesedhouse.org
Lazarus House
www.lazarushouseonline.com
Living Lutheran
www.livinglutheran.org
Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago
www.lstc.edu/lstc-life/events
Lutheran Social Services of Illinois
www.lssi.org
Metropolitan Chicago Synod ELCA
www.mcsela.org
Mutual Ground
www.mutualground.org
Lutheran Suicide Prevention Ministry
www.lutheransuicideprevention.org
Rev. Janelle Neubauer, ELCA Missionary
http://jsneub.blogspot.com/2017/
www.facebook.com/janelle.neubauer
YAGM Rwanda
www.facebook.com/yagmrwanda/
Bethany Lutheran Church www.bethanybatavia.org
8 South Lincoln Street, Batavia, IL 60510 - 630.879.3444 [email protected]
Office Hours: 9:00am – 4:30pm, Monday - Friday