This page showcases numerous programs, benefits, functions and
projects sponsored by members or groups of members at Church, which are typically outside the immediate focus of our
Ministries and the Bethlehem Women of the ELCA. The goal is to bring these efforts together in one place so that we all
may be better informed and those who desire to express their interest in joining, participating or volunteering may
view the wide range of members ongoing activities and efforts. It is with earnest desire and passion that this page
will serve the congregation's desire to become involved on any level of participation.
Bethlehem Cares Fund: In these times of financial uncertainty, we
have a fund to help those in need of groceries, medical bills etc. Contact Rose or Pastor Laura at the Church office.
T.A.C.O. ~ Third Avenue Charitable Organization See the Church
calendar for your next opportunity. Church members volunteer to serve in the First
Lutheran Church's soup kitchen, downtown at 3rd and Ash, at 3:30 PM. No cooking involved -- all that's
needed is a friendly face and willing hands. Questions or need a ride? Call Lori Cook at 760 918-2401.
Hope to see you there! Matthew 25:3
TACO update page.
Bethlehem Advocacy Group
(BAG) The goal of the new Bethlehem Advocacy Committee (BAC) is to advocate for social justice within the congregation.
We take our directive from the words of the ELCA Constitution: to participate in God’s mission to meet human needs,
study social issues and trends, advocating dignity and justice for all people. Our vision is to alleviate
poverty locally and abroad. This April we are supporting Jubilee and Lifestraw project. Coordinator:
Gail Winterbourne bcpresch@blcenc.org
Jubilee was formed in the late 1990’s by people of faith and conscience who felt compelled to address the growing international
debt crisis. Bethlehem Lutheran Church is a flagship congregation of Jubilee. In 2008 we have an opportunity to
break the chains of debt and change the lives of millions. The Jubilee Act is the single most important piece of debt legislation
and one of the most widely supported anti-poverty bills in Congress. Together, right now, we can make history. Contact your
Congressman to support the Jubilee Act or come by the Jubilee table to sign a postcard which will be hand delivered to your
Congressman.
The Center for Global Awareness fosters understanding of peoples and cultures throughout our world.
Program Director: Diane Nichols globalawareness3@hotmail.com For
April, The Center for Global Awareness will focus on one aspect of poverty, access to clean water. You can help ensure that children have an
opportunity to drink clean water by donating to Lifestraw, a personal and portable plastic filtered straw, designed
to turn most surface water into drinking water. Lifestraw kills disease-causing microorganisms that spread
cholera, diarrhea, dysentery and typhoid. Please take a donation envelope from the Giving Tree and save the life of a child with each $4 purchase.
Military Support
As a congregation, we wish to continue to offer support to help and appreciate those who are serving in
active duty military and their families.