What do the words “He has risen” mean to you? In Luke (23:50–24:12) there is a beautiful and stunning story about these three words. Before reading on how about you stop reading this and read the verses above.

In the story you just read there were a few different people who cared for Jesus. After Jesus’ death, Joseph and some wom-en wanted to tend to Jesus’ body. They wanted to make sure Jesus got a proper burial. They wanted to make sure his dead body was taken care of. What I want you to notice is that there wasn’t a hope for a resurrection. They had heard Jesus’ words but they had forgotten them. They wanted to prepare his body for the grave! Jesus was dead in their minds. There wasn’t any hope in them; there was a spirit of emptiness. Just look at what it says the women were doing: they were preparing spices and ointments for Jesus’ dead body. I think it is even okay to say a spirit of desperation had come over some of them, because when then they got word that Jesus had risen, it sounded like nonsense to them. They didn’t even get up and run to the tomb like we see Peter do. Jesus was dead!

The story continues that when the women went to the tomb, the stone was moved, the grave was empty, and they went in and Jesus wasn’t there. And while they were there two men (angels) appeared asking, “why are looking for living amongst the dead? He is not here, HE HAS RISEN!”

What do the words “He has risen” mean to you? Think about what they meant to these women! These words brought hope! The women went and took the gospel to the others! He has risen! It changed them right there on the spot! It brought them joy! It brought them excite-ment! Everything Jesus said he would do is happening!

This same hope is what we get to take to the people around us. To some of the people around us it might sound like nonsense, but to others it is what is going to move them like these women were moved!

This Easter be moved! Be moved like these women were moved! Be moved like Peter was moved! He has risen! He is alive! Now go run and tell someone!

—Brandon Pangman, Pastor of Community Life

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CONTENTSAll-Church Announcements 2–3Women’s Ministries 4Homestars 4Touched Twice 5Youth Ministries 6Children’s Ministries 7Bethesda World Missions 8Adult Bible Fellowships 9LIFEgroups 10

Sunday Service Schedule

9:00 am – Traditional 10:30 am – Contemporary 10:45 am – Eleeo (Walker Hall)

Worship Schedule!

refresh!(-ments)Sundays: 10:00–10:40 v Walker Hall (Gym)

Stop in the gym before or after morning worship for delicious coffee, cookies and pleasant conversation.

He Has Risen!April 2012

WWW.BETHESDALUTHERAN.ORG

NEWSBethesdaLutheran Brethren ChurCh

Maundy Thursday Communion Service Ü7:00pm

Good Friday Tenebrae Service Ü 1:00pm

Worship Service (In the Gym)Ü 6:30pm

Movie:“ThePassionoftheChrist” (In the Gym)Ü 8:00pm

EasterMorningWorshipServicesTraditional Ü 7:45amTraditional Ü 9:00amModern,Guitar-driven Ü 9:15amContemporary Ü 10:30amModern,Guitar-driven Ü 10:45am

CelebraTeHiSreSurreCTion!

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All Church Announcements

Nate OldenkampI grew up and attended col-

lege in rural Northwest Iowa where my faith was nurtured by the examples of family, friends, and teachers around me. I cher-ish the time he gives me with my wife Summer and our two sons Jonah and Caleb. Regularly I am reminded that the moments I have with them and the rest of my loved ones is a great gift and calling. Today I continue to encounter God through them, others I meet, and moments of Sabbath in His creation.

Since God’s initial call on my life to serve, I have had opportunities to join His work in youth, camping, and pasto-ral care ministries. Currently I am serving as Spiritual Care Director for Dove Healthcare and Affiliates in the Chippewa Valley. I am a graduate of Bethel Seminary in St. Paul Min-nesota. Presently I am pursing ordination in the CLBA via the colloquy process and am working toward board certification through the Association of Professional Chaplains.

The image of surrender has shaped my faith walk. Through times of tension in life God has shown me the an-cient paths where I can find rest for my soul (Jer 6:16). I count it an honor to be with others as they too search for a place of hope and peace in their lives. I am excited to be a part of the Bethesda church body and anticipate continued opportunities to serve and be filled here.

Zachary SchroerI grew up on the

north side of Eau Claire in a Catholic Christian home. I went to Catholic schools through eighth grade and then went to North High and graduated from there in 2003. While in high school I felt God calling me to serve Him in a church body in full time ministry. I began looking into the priesthood, but was unable to commit to that life at the time. I also began attending UWEC with a Religious Studies major and History minor. Through being involved with the Navigators group on campus, I met my wife, Alissa (Dittner), and was introduced to the Lutheran Brethren.

It was during my freshman year that God began to form the calling on my life as my heart and mind were be-ing turned toward ministry somewhere in Africa. I went on a mission trip to Ghana, Africa for three weeks one summer and was guided by God more to serve Him in the future somewhere in the central Africa region. Alissa too had received His direction, before we had even met each other, to go and serve Him in Africa. Upon becom-ing members at Bethesda, it seemed only right to attend Lutheran Brethren Seminary in Fergus Falls, to begin our training for church ministry and foreign mission.

I began attending LBS in 2007 after I graduated from UWEC with a bachelor’s degree. After one semester at LBS, I came back to Eau Claire and married Alissa in January of 2008. She moved up to Fergus Falls with me and we continued to seek God’s will for our lives. While there we were led to the conclusion that we were to serve God through Lutheran Brethren International Missions in Chad, Africa. We went on a mission trip to Cameroon, Africa in January of 2010 and came back more certain of our understanding of God’s call.

I graduated from LBS in May of 2011, and in June we followed God’s leading and moved back to Eau Claire to serve Him here as we are waiting for the funding to come in for us to be sent to Chad. While here, Alissa has expanded her nursing skills working at Luther Hospi-tal. Along with working at Bethesda, I have been taking French language and Muslim studies courses at UWEC to continue to for Chad. We are both excited about being back in Eau Claire, and we look forward to the time we have here to build our relationships at Bethesda and the Eau Claire community.

Dear Bethesda Family,We are uniquely blessed to have two young ministers among

us who are at important stages in their ministry preparation! Both have unique ministry callings, and both also are in the process of preparing for possible ordination through the Church of the Lutheran Brethren.

Zachary Schroer is a 2011 graduate of our seminary, and has been serving at Bethesda in a voluntary ‘Intern Pastor’ ministry role, while preparing for a future possible call along with his wife Alissa, to be missionaries to Chad. We are excited for the church to get to know Zachary and his gifts and heart for ministry!

Nate Oldenkamp is a graduate of Bethel Seminary, and with his wife Summer, and their two young boys, Jonah and Caleb, have made Bethesda their church home for the past couple years. Nate is called and employed as a chaplain at Dove Healthcare. Nate is also in the process of seeking possible ordination in the Lutheran Brethren.

We are glad and grateful to have both these young families as part of our church family, and for us also to be a place where their gifts are shared and developed. Please join me in welcoming these young men and encouraging them on their journeys.

—Pastor Paul

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All Church Announcements

For those who have suffered a loss or who are going through the difficult time, Easter can be a time of painful loneliness and emptiness. If you are smiling on the outside, but full of pain on the inside and the joy of Easter seems far away, help is available. Our Stephen Ministers are ready to provide confidential, one-to-one, Chris-tian care. They will listen, care, encourage, and pray with and for you. Stephen Ministers have been specially trained to meet your emotional and spiritual needs; male Stephen Ministers are always matched with men, and female Stephen Ministers are matched with women. If you or someone you know is hurting, find out more about Stephen Ministry by talking with: Paul & JoDea Green at (715) 839-9468, Judy Draper at (715) 831-0189, or Pastor Venberg at the church office, (715) 835-5073.

Our Stephen Ministers are there to care!This month we will continue our training:

April 2 — Ministering to those experiencing griefApril 9 — Dealing with depressionApril 16 — Helping suicidal persons get helpApril 23 — Bringing the caring relationship to a closeApril 30 — Supervision, part 1

Stephen Ministry

Does the Joy of Easter Seem Far Away?

Check it Out!Easter Sunday is April 8th! Come into our church li-

brary and look immediately to your left at the display bookshelf full of resources for all ages about why Jesus came into our world. Check out these and other media in Bethesda’s library.

• Faith Lessons: The True Easter Story (DVD) by Ray Vander Laan/That The World May Know series. Travel with Ray to the land of Israel and discover fascinating truths about the events surrounding the death and resurrection of Jesus. (232.9, FAI)

• Jesus Chronicles: Mark’s Story (8 CDs, audio book) by Tim Lahaye and Jerry B. Jenkins. Mark’s Story is a thrilling account that vividly depicts the last day before Jesus’ crucifixion and the danger that early believers faced as they boldly proclaimed Jesus as Lord. (F, LAH)

• Barabbas (book) by Par Lagerkvist. The author presents a possibility in a fictional look at the time after Jesus Christ has been crucified, through the eyes of the man who was to be in his place, Barabbas. (F, LAG)

Salsa(Salt and Light Single Adults)

Connect and Fellowship with other Single Adults(30s–50s+)

This small group is designed to provide Christian fel-lowship and the opportunity to experience community with other Bethesda single adults.

Join us Sunday April 29 @ 12:30–2:30 p.m. at Mount Simon. We’ll have lunch and Frisbee Golf (or enjoying the outdoors if you don’t want to golf). Rain location: Bethes-da Fireside Room. Bring your favorite sub topping (meat, cheese or veggies) and beverage. We will provide the bread and sauce/dressings. Please RSVP to Carin or Mary!

Any questions or to be added to the SALSA email group please contact: Carin at carin-rae@hotmail.com or Mary at mary.robinson@ahss.org

Our Choir will present the classic musical, “I AM” on Palm Sunday, April 1st at 5:00 PM. The Resurrection Cel-ebration was created and arranged by David T Clydesdale and boasts a magnificent tribute to the great I AM thru a variety of new compositions as well as favorites of the past. The choir will be accompanied by our own Katie Thews, piano, and guest organist, Virginia Tubbs. Eight choir mem-bers will be involved in solos and a duet throughout the musical, several in costume.

A freewill offering will be received that will be divided between the Salvation Army and our own Deacon Fund. Child Care will be provided. You are invited to make this festive Celebration a part of your Easter season.

I AM

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HomeStars After a very busy March, April looks to be another fun

filled month for HomeStars. Our monthly meeting on April 10th (12:30–3:00) will feature a presentation on nutrition called “Removing the Interference to God’s Healing Princi-ples”. Our monthly devotional will on perseverance. The day starts (10:30–11:45) with our monthly family activity, featur-ing lots of physical activities focusing on healthy living, fol-lowed by the classes for kids of all ages (12:30–3:10). The field trip planned for April 24th is to the Chippewa Moraine Ice Age State Recreation Area. Also, the middle school activ-ity is planned for April 13th (details will be at our website).

Congratulations to our HomeStars Odyssey of the Mind competitors. We had two teams competing at the state tour-nament in Madison. The Odyssey Angels (3rd–5th graders) solved some of the world’s problems with a humorous skit in-volving an angel freezing time. Hide and Peek (K–2nd grad-ers) used the Bible, a cross, and a candle as props in their skit to reveal the message of Psalm 119:105. Hide and Peek

earned a perfect score! What a wonderful way to glorify the Lord! Thanks to Michelle Johnson and others for all their hard work to make this happen.

If you are homeschooling or considering it, join Home-Stars and take part in all the activities and encouraging fel-lowship. Contact Linda Swenson at 715-834-0713, or check out our website at www.homestars.me.

A Homeschool Support Ministry of Bethesda Lutheran Church

Women’s Ministries

Do you enjoy planning events? The Women’s Ministries Committee is seeking a leader for an event panning subcommittee. Call Women’s Minis-tries chair Mandy Heard at 715-834-5246 or email mandy-heardu@gmail.com to see how you can help.

Do you have a heart for missionaries? Would you or your group be interested in sending birthday cards to missionaries that our church supports? Contact Mandy Heard at 715-834-5246 or email mandyheardu@gmail.com for more information.

Mother * Daugher

Sister * Friend

A Women’s Retreat at Camp Forest Springs An exhilarating weekend of inspiration, laughter, and en-

couragement. Apr 13–15, 2012 (Fri–Sun). Speaker: Jill Briscoe. Jill came to Elmbrook Church in Illinios from England when her husband, Stuart was called as Senior Pastor. She is the author of more than 40 books and is on the teaching staff of Telling the Truth, a worldwide media ministry. These and other involvements take her to every continent teaching and encouraging pastors, missionaries, and church leaders.

Cost: $129/person. For more information and to register: www.campforestsprings.org/specialty/refresh-2012

You are cordially invited to come with your Mother, Daughter, Sister or Friend to the annual Mother-Daughter-Sister-Friend Event on May 12 for a “Daughters of the King” Princess Party at 11:00 a.m. Dress in your formal gowns, tiaras and help us celebrate your life as a princess, the daughter of our Lord. It will be a pot luck salad luncheon with activities for all ages. Save the date!

Ladies! In the next few weeks, please check the church kitchen for missing or forgotten dishes and pans. Anything left behind will be donated to Touched Twice.

Refresh

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Volunteers Are Still Needed!Our Touched Twice Clinic is Saturday, April 21 from

9:00 am until 2:00 pm. Our doors will open at 8:30. We are still in need of Advocates for our clinic. You will be a friend and guide to a guest who attends. You will meet them in Registration and help them fill out their paperwork. You will take them around to their service area of choice. You will make sure they get their free hot meal, and that their needs are met.

You will receive all the information necessary to know how to serve in this vital area at the information night which is Friday, April 20, 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary. You can partner up with a friend or family member too and do

it together. The services we will be offering are: medical, dental, optical, chiropractic, photography, counseling, com-munity resources, oil changes and haircuts. Currently God has blessed us with 218 Advocates. We are in need of about 30 more. Some other areas of need are as follows:• We are in need of one more chiropractor.• We are in need of Gatekeepers. A Gatekeeper is a time

scheduler assigned to a service area.• We need more helpers who are willing to do oil changes.

Last year we had 35 and we only have 15. We are in need of 20 more.

• We need prayer for vouchers for eye glasses. Last year we had vouchers and if we couldn’t fill a prescription with the glasses we have available we were able to give a guest a voucher. Those vouchers were redeemable for free glasses at 3 locations. So far we have been unable to obtain those vouchers.

• We are still accepting gently used clothing to give away. We are especially in need of men’s clothing.

• Set-up and Clean-up!For more information or to volunteer to help please

email Karen Biel at ckbiel@gmail.com or call 715-577-6865

The Hillcrest Academy Concert Band and Jazz Ensem-ble from Fergus Falls, Minnesota, under the direction of Stephen Doering, will be in concert at Bethesda on Friday, April 13, at 7:00 pm.

The concert program this year features both old and new music written for concert band, and the Jazz Ensemble will be performing arrangements in a variety of styles. Sev-eral student soloists will also be featured. There should be something for every musical taste at this concert.

The band will be performing in churches throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York. The public is invited to hear this concert. No admission is charged, and a free-will offer-ing will be taken.

We are looking for families to help house these students on Friday and Saturday night. If you can help, please call Lois Johnson at 715-835-6272 or the church office.

Hillcrest Academy Band ConcertFriday, April 13th at Bethesda

Bethesda Softball Teams Forming Now

Springtime means Softball! It’s time to start forming up our teams for this year’s season. Whether you’re in it for the competition, or just for fun, we have a spot for you. Open-ings include both men and women, ages 16 and older. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people, have some fun, (and win some softball games, of course).

We have three teams — one co-ed team and two all-male teams, one of which was the lead champs from last year!

The deadline for turning in our roster is April 15th. There is a small cost to cover team fees. The regular league season begins in May with once-a-week games, and runs through August. Contact Rob Bandoli, 715-529-0804.

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Youth Ministries

Weekly ScheduleOne23: High School Youth Group: Sundays 7–8:30 pmThe Bridge: Middle School Youth Group: Wednesdays 6:45-8pm (No Bridge on March 21st)

Chad ShifferDirector Youth Ministrieschad@bethesdalutheran.org

Ryan RicoMiddle School Youth Directorryan@bethesdalutheran.org

High School CalendarSunday, April 1 — ONE23: “Dyno-mite!”Friday, April 6 — The Passion of the Christ (Gym 8pm)Sunday, April 8 — Easter Breakfast Fundraiser (Mis-

sion:Haiti)Sunday, April 8 — NO ONE23Sat., April 14 — Fun/Service Day w/ Hillcrest BandSunday, April 19 — ONE23: “Angels and Demons”Sat., April 21 — Touched Twice service eventSunday, April 22 — ONE23: Guest Speaker Damien

GulaSunday April 29 — ONE23: “Heaven and Hell”

Thanks to all who helped plan, organize, execute, and come to the Italian Dinner. Wow, what a fun night that was! Through the dinner, stock sales, and other fundraisers we have raised $15,000, plus with past donations and other funds we are just $12,000 short of our goal of $42,000. Praise God and keep praying for Team Haiti!

M:HMission:Haiti Back again, this is a great way to give of your time

and energy to the betterment of others! This year students need to sign up ahead of time to help in different areas. Needed most are mature students to be Advocates, but there are other places students can be involved too (set up and take down are always very helpful!). Sign up sheets will be available at ONE23 and on the Youth bulletin board.

You can find more information about Touched Twice on our website or on Page 5 of this Newsletter.

You’ve got enough to worry about with Easter meals and gatherings, let us take care of breakfast for you! Come and enjoy a full meal including pancakes, sausage, fresh fruit, bagels, cinnamon rolls, juice and coffee. Serving from 8am to 11am in the Fellowship Hall. This Easter Morning Break-fast is a fundraiser for the summer mission trip to Haiti

Easter Breakfast Fundraiser

TouchedTwice ClinicApril 21st

Camp Transportation Forms

Camp transportation forms are now available on the church website and on the youth bulletin board (across from the restrooms). Church will be providing transporta-tion to Jr. High 2 (July 15–20) and Sr. High 1 (July 1–5). Completed forms should be turned in to Chad. The priority deadline is May 15th; requests submitted after that date will be honored based on room available. If you have any ques-tions please contact Chad or Ryan.

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Children’s Ministries

ProgramsSunday School Bethesda offers two hours of Sunday School, during the 9:00 am and 10:30/45 am services.

Wednesday Night ActivitiesChildren’s Choir: 6:00–6:45pmKids of the Kingdom: (K–3rd Grade) 6:45–8pmBible Explorers: (4th–5th Grade) 6:45–8pm

There will be no Sunday School on Easter. April 18th is the last night of Wednesday Night Activities

Dawn RicoChildren’s Ministries Directordawn@bethesdalutheran.org

Karen RateringChildren’s Ministries Assistantk.ratering@sbcglobal.net

Vacation Bible SchoolVBS is happening June 18–22! We’ll be going to Promise

Island where kids discover God’s lifesaving love! We are so ex-cited to be able to offer a fun-filled week full of singing, games, crafts, Bible stories, snacks and a mission focus all while learning of God’s promises! Not only do many Bethesda children learn all about Jesus during this week but more than half the children that traditionally attend do not attend Bethesda!

In order for this week to be possible, however, we need for you to step up and serve! There are many different areas you can choose from which are listed below. We have job descriptions available which better explain what is involved. If you already know where you’d like to serve please send me an email and I’ll plug you in! Otherwise, we’ll have sign-up sheets out on a table in a couple weeks and you can sign-up then. Please contact me with any questions. 1 Decorating Co-Supervisor 8 Kitchen Helpers 1 Craft Co-Supervisor 4 Craft Room Leaders 12 Craft Room Helpers 10–12 Registration Helpers (Mon. and/or Tues.) 8 Nursery Leaders and Helpers 28 Group Guides (guide a group of children throughout the

morning) 35 Group Guide Helpers 4–6 Skit Actors 6 Music Leaders 8 Greeters (Mon. and Tues. a.m. and Fri. p.m.) 6 Substitutes for Guides and Helpers Many, Many people to help decorate the previous week (June

11–16)

Wednesday Night Activities!

It’s hard to believe that our last night of activities is April 18th. We’ll end the year with our Jesus Celebration for both the KOK and Bible Explorer groups. This is a night where we focus on what Jesus has done for us through song, craft and object lesson. The kids will have an opportunity for some great discussion in their small groups. We’ve enjoyed our time with the kids each Wednesday – it’s been a great year!

Next fall our Wednesday night activities will start up the same week as Sunday school so be listening for information regarding this as September rolls around!

Also, our 5th grade Bible Explorers will have their graduation party on Friday, May 4th, from 6 to 10 p.m. at church. Lots of fun activities are planned as we bid them farewell from Children’s Ministries and send them over to Middle School Ministries!

Bible Camp!It’s not too late to sign your child up for Inspiration Point

Bible Camp! Go to www.ipoint.org for a registration form and more information. We are arranging for transportation (with par-ent drivers) to Pioneer 2 week (for those going into 3rd/4th gr.) which is held June 24th–28th and to Explorer 2 week (those going into 5th/6th gr.) which is held July 8th–13th. You can pick up the transportation request packet from the table by the resource room and return the forms by May 15th if you would like your child to participate in the pre-arranged transportation. Also, if you would like for your child to attend camp and you do not have the means at this time to be able to afford the cost please contact me. We would like to help you out with a camp scholarship. Please con-tact me as soon as possible as the cost of camp goes up after April 2nd and again after May 1st.

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Children’s Ministries

Gronseths: • Pray for John’s and Betsy’s exhaustion and frustration as

they deal with vast cultural differences in building standards, cleanliness, safety, and decorating concepts while the Coffee House renovations are being completed.

• Pray for Mr. Wu, the contractor, who is a believer, and who is trying to provide what John and Betsy want during the renovation process.

• Pray for strength and wisdom as John and Betsy interview and hire staff for the Coffee House, finish the library, plan menus, learn how to make fancy coffee shop drinks, and prepare for the grand opening they hope to have sometime this month.

• Pray that the Lord will prepare Stephen for college life next fall.

• Pray for an apartment or small house in Eau Claire for John and Betsy to rent from June 10th-August 10th.

• Pray that the Lord will provide the remainder of the funds needed for the Coffee House.

Contruccis: • Praise the Lord for Contruccis’ 20 years of service with Mission

Aviation Fellowship! Thanks to those at Bethesda who have steadfastly walked with Kent and Nancy!

• Pray for Kent and Nancy as they prepare to facilitate a workshop entitled ‘Leading From Your Strengths’ for MAF Program Managers from around the world on April 19th. The request came from MAF field leadership, and Kent and Nancy are very excited about this opportunity.

• Pray for Kent as he prepares to lead the Inside-Out Safety Seminar for new MAF staff on May 3rd and 4th.

• Pray for Nancy as she teaches and advises students majoring in Special Education at Azuza Pacific University.

• Praise the Lord that their daughter Sarah will graduate from Eastern University with her Master’s degree in International Development on May 12th. Sarah will then spend a month with Kent, Nancy, and her brother, Jonathan, before returning to Uganda.

Venbergs: • Praise the Lord for restoring Tevi to health! • Pray for Dan as he travels in mid-April to speak at a seminar for

Chadian evangelists. Pray for Rachel and the children while he is away.

• Pray that the family can survive the hot season of the year. • Pray for Gabe, Sylvia, and Tevi as they are in school, and that

Dan and Rachel will make a wise decision about schooling for next year.

• Pray Dan and Malloum as they visit the communities that received the Advent Conspiracy wells.

Wiebes: • Pray for Brent and Sandi’s plans to use various media (e.g., MP3

players, Bible texts and videos to view on cell phones, tracts, and Bible studies) to get the Bola Scriptures to the Bola people.

• Pray for Brent and Sandi’s plans to serve as trainers and consultants for translation work among the last 12 language groups on New Britain Island.

• Pray that God will use His Word to bring many Bola people into His kingdom.

• Pray for increased monthly support ($2,000 more per month is needed), so that the family can return to Papua New Guinea this July.

Wiles: • Pray for the LBIM missionary families in Chad that John and

Kathryn visited in early March, that God’s Word and presence will bring ongoing encouragement and peace.

• Pray for John and Kathryn as they are serving in Switzerland for the next month as substitute pastor and wife at the International Church of Lucerne (ICL). This is enabling the pastor and his wife to spend an extended time in the United States visiting their parents, children, and grandchildren. John says that it is a delight to share the Word every Sunday and at mid-week services with this multi-national congregation!

Bethesda World MissionsPraise and Prayer for Bethesda’s Family Around the World

John and Betsy Gronseth are looking for an apart-ment or small house in Eau Claire to rent from June 10th–August 10th while they are here for Jenny’s wed-ding and to get Stephen prepared for college. Please con-tact the church office and we’ll put you in touch!

Short-term housing needed

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Adult Bible Fellowships

Adult Bible Fellowships (ABFs) are groups that meet in order to help us grow in our relationships to God and with each other. ABFs are committed to deepening our relationships, as well as growing new relationships. Bethesda has a number of ABFs available. Although ABF goals are similar, each group has its own identity.

Sundays • 9:00 amBranches

Room 204c (Fellowship Hall)Ages 30-60

Branches will gather in room 204a to study John Eldredge’s book Beautiful Outlaw. Join us for coffee, treats, friendship and study.Contact: Deb Hubbell at 715-839-0594 or dahshop@yahoo.com

iLessFireside Room, Room 102

Ministry for 18+.iLess is an ABF designed to meet the needs and help in the spiritual growth of young adults in our Bethesda community. Contact: Pastor Brandon at 715-835-5073 or brandon@bethesdalutheran.org

SojournersRoom 305Ages 30–50

Please come and join us as we study John Eldredge’s book Beautiful Outlaw.Contact: Allen or Jeanne Sternke at 715-597-3526 or jeannesternke@yahoo.com

To Be DeterminedRoom 204c

20s–40sWe will kick off this new ABF with a study of John Eldredge’s book Beautiful OutlawContact: Mike and Alissa Amundson, mna95@hotmail.com

Sundays • 10:30 amKingfolk

Room 204c (Fellowship Hall)Retired, or nearing retirement

Join us Sunday mornings for lively discussion and encourage-ment! On April 1, experienced Bible study leader, Larry Ben-net will facilitate a study of scripture. Then on April 15, Sue Derfus will teach on women of the Bible. Contact: Augie Wirkus, 715-831-0460

A.C.T.S.Room 305Ages 20-80

This month: April 1 Kathyrn Duax: Listening for God; April 15 Becky Larson: testimony; April 22 Steve Louden: Ezra; April 29 Sue Derfus: Jonah. Please join us for lively, interac-tive discussions.Contact: Steve Louden: b4ubuy1217@sbcglobal.net, Sheryl Prochnow: sprochnow7477@charter.net,Jodi Flaten: flatenmom@charter.net, Jim Von Hayden: 715-559-5202

Seekers of GodFireside Room, Room 102

Retired, nearing retirementWe are currently studying the prophet Amos, and then will move on to 2 Kings, Chapter 13. All are welcome to join us!Contact: Beth Smith, 715-875-4553, or Dennis and Diane Peterson, 715-839-8648.

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LiFEgroups LEARNFROM GOD’S WORD

APPLYIT TO LIFE

CONNECTWITH ONE ANOTHER

Group Demographic: MenContact Information: Mark Miller, mamaflac@yahoo.com, �1�-���-����Meeting Location: Bethesda, Fireside RoomMeeting Time: Mondays, �:�0 am–�:�� amCurriculum/Description: 1st Peter——————————————————————————————————————Group Name: Solid Rock CaféGroup Demographic: Multigenerational women. Married,

single, divorced, and widowedContact Information: Jane Louden, janelouden1�1�@gmail.com, �1�-���-�0��Meeting Location: Bethesda, Rooms �11 & �1�Meeting Time: Mondays, �:�0 pm–�:00 pmCurriculum/Description: Evangelism – A Way of Life by

Rebecca Pippert & Ruth Sie-mens

——————————————————————————————————————Group Name: Empty NestersContact Information: Brian & Janet Amundson, �1�-���-0��1Meeting Location: Bethesda, Fireside RoomMeeting Time: 1st and �rd Mondays, �:00 pm–�:00 pmCurriculum/Description: Directions from the Word of God by David Rinden——————————————————————————————————————Group Demographic: Open/MixedContact Information: John and Jeanne Lutz, johnlutz@ameritech.net, �1�-��1-0���Meeting Location: ��0� Chasewood LaneMeeting Time: MondaysCurriculum/Description: Beautiful Outlaw (Childcare will be made available)

Group Name: Rachel Circle Bible StudyGroup Demographic: WomenContact Information: Joan Albricht or Louise Koxlien Joan: �1�-��0-0��1 or Louise: �1�-���-����Meeting Location: Bethesda, Fireside RoomMeeting Time: April �rd, 1:00 pmThis month we are continuing with the Life Lessons guide Study of Joshua, lesson #�, “Know God & Know About the Enemy.” You are invited to join us in this interactive journey using the book of Joshua.

Group Name: Solid Rock CaféGroup Demographic: WomenContact Information: Sue Henneman, Pat Murphy, suehennemann@att.net, �1�-���-1��� patree@cvol.net, �1�-���-1�1�Meeting Location: Bethesda, Room �1�BMeeting Time: Tuesdays, �:1� pm–�:�� pmCurriculum/Description: Revelation: Unlocking the Mysteries of the End Times, a 1�-week study that helps us discover the encouraging message of Revelation and apply it to our lives today.——————————————————————————————————————Group Demographic: MenContact Information: David Verhaagh, Jeff Wile, dver-

haagh@hotmail.com, �1�-����1�� wilejeff@gmail.com, �1�-���-����

Meeting Location: Bethesda, Room �0�Meeting Time: Tuesdays, �:�0 pm–�:�0 pmCurriculum/Description: We study different sections of scripture with help, at times, from Max Lucado’s books.

Contact Information: Chad and Elaine Shiffer, chad@bethesdalutheran.orgMeeting Location: Shiffers’ home (��0 W. Fillmore Avenue)Meeting Time: Wednesday AMCurriculum/Description: Beautiful Outlaw(Childcare Available)———————————————————————————————————————Group Name: Busy Women’s StudyContact Information: Brittney Malone, brittney@bethesda-lutheran.orgMeeting Location: Bethesda, Room �1�BMeeting Time: Wednesdays, �:�� pm–�:00 pmCurriculum/Description: The Power of a Positive Woman, by Carol Ladd. (Childcare Available)———————————————————————————————————————Group Name: Genesis in Space and TimeContact Information: Nathan Dietsche, �1�-���-��01Meeting Location: Bethesda, Room �1�Meeting Time: Wednesdays, �:�0 pm–�:�0 pmCurriculum/Description: Answers in Genesis———————————————————————————————————————Group Name: America’s Christian HeritageContact Information: Nathan Dietsche, �1�-���-��01Meeting Location: Bethesda, Room �1�Meeting Time: Wednesdays, �:�0 pm–�:00 pmCurriculum/Description: American Heritage Series

MONDAYS

TUESDAYS

WEDNESDAYS

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Group Name: Common Ground Group Demographic: Singles, Couples with school-age kidsContact Information: Jay & Andrea Anderson, Ross & Michelle Kooiker, �1�-���-����Meeting Location: Bethesda, Room �0�aMeeting Time: Wednesdays, �:00 pm–�:00 pmCurriculum/Description: I and II Thessalonians———————————————————————————————————————Group Name: Wednesday Night Bible StudyContact Information: Pastor Venberg, rodney@bethesda-lutheran.org, �1�-���-�0��Meeting Location: Bethesda, Fireside RoomMeeting Time: Wednesdays, �:00 pm–�:00 pmCurriculum/Description: 1 Timothy

Group Name: Lydia Bible StudyGroup Demographic: WomenContact Information: Grace Bailey, �1�-�1�-����Meeting Location: Bethesda, Fireside Room (10�)Meeting Time: Second Thursdays, 1:00 pmCurriculum: We will resume our study on April 1�th. Please read Chapter 1 in the book “He Still Moves Stones.”———————————————————————————————————————Group Name: Lose It For LifeGroup Demographic: WomenContact Information: Kristin Verhaagh, �1�-���-����Meeting Location: Bethesda, Fireside Room (10�)Meeting Time: Thursdays, �:�0 pmCurriculum: Lose it for Life, by Stephen Arterburn———————————————————————————————————————Group Demographic: Open/MixedContact Information: Jim & Carol Trullinger, jltrullinger@mmm.com, jactrull@charter.net, �1�-���-��1�Meeting Location: ���0 Windsong Ct, EC, WI ���0�Meeting Time: Thursdays, �:�0 pm–�:00 pmCurriculum/Description: Beautiful Outlaw———————————————————————————————————————Group Demographic: WomenContact: Dawn Rico, dawn@bethesdalutheran.orgMeeting Location: Bethesda (Room not yet determined)Meeting Time: Thursdays, �:�0 pm–�:00 pmCurriculum/Description: Beautiful Outlaw———————————————————————————————————————Group Name: Band of BrothersGroup Demographic: MenContact: John Lutz, johnlutz@ameritech.net, �1�-��1-0���Meeting Location: Bethesda Room �0�Meeting Time: �:�0 am–�:�0 amCurriculum/Description: Beautiful Outlaw

Group Demographic: Women in their �0sContact Information: Holly Hermann, holly@bethesdalu-theran.orgMeeting Location: ���� Halsey St.Meeting Time: Thursdays, �:00 pmCurriculum/Description: Boundaries, by Henry Cloud

Group Name: Rise Up!Group Demographic: WomenContact Information: Jackie Vold, mjvold@gmail.com, �1�-���-����Meeting Location: Bethesda, Fireside RoomMeeting Time: Fridays, �:�0 am–�:�� amCurriculum/Description:——————————————————————————————————————Group Name: Circle of FriendsGroup Demographic: WomenContact Information: Mandy Heard, �1�-���-����; Chris Strasburg, �1�-���-0��1Meeting Location: BethesdaMeeting Time: Fridays, �:1� amCurriculum/Description: Directions from the Word of God by David Rinden

Group Name: Shoulder To ShoulderGroup Demographic: Men (emphasis on �0s to �0s)Contact Info: John Flaten, jflaten1���@hotmail.comMeeting Location: Fireside RoomMeeting Time: Saturdays, �:��–�:�� am Curriculum/Description: 1�-week men’s Bible study that examines the lives of the Apostles.

Group Demographic: �0s–�0sContact Info: Paul & Bee Larson, Zachary & Alissa Schro-er, Tim & Laura Jones, paul@bethesdalutheran.orgMeeting Location: 1��0 Red Pine Dr, ECMeeting Time: Sundays �:00 pm–�:�0 pmCurriculum/Description: Beautiful Outlaw

LiFEgroups LEARNFROM GOD’S WORD

APPLYIT TO LIFE

CONNECTWITH ONE ANOTHER

SUNDAYS

THURSDAYS

FRIDAYS

SATURDAYS

1�

BethesdaLutheran Brethren ChurCh

123 W. Hamilton AvenueEau Claire, WI 54701715-835-5073www.bethesdalutheran.org

C3Christ … Community … Cause

A vision for clarifying who we believe God is leading us to become.

Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University class will be starting up again on April 12th at Bethesda.

During this life-changing course, you will learn:• To put together a monthly spending plan that really

works!• The step-by-step process for getting out of debt for

good!• How to set financial goals and really communicate

about money. . . . and much more! Classes will be held every Thursday evening, from

6:30–8:30pm, in Room 201. To enroll, or for more informa-tion, contact Carol Cox at 715-861-4495, or Amelia Baskin at 715-577-4618.

New ClassesStarting April 12

Pastor Appreciation Day is an annual Bethesda event that started back in the nineties when a dozen men gathered at our pastors’ homes and applied some down-to-earth love raking lawns, pruning bushes and washing windows. Today, most men’s events live for a season and then fade away, but PAD continues to go strong. Discover the reason first hand by helping Saturday, April 14th. The time commitment is minimal. Meet at Bethesda at 7:30 a.m. for breakfast, then form two teams and head out to our pastor’s homes. Both teams should finish around 11 a.m. You can sign up for a particular job in the foyer through Easter Sunday, or email me, bruce.strangfeld@gmail.com. Bring a friend & kids are always welcome.

Pastor Appreciation Day