May 6, 2022
Dear Pastor, Members, and Friends of Mount Bethel United Methodist Church:
Thank you for your accomplishment of paying 100 percent apportionments in 2021! The past year brought disruption and uncertainty as we continued to navigate the pandemic. You have been good stewards who persevered and in trust, honored this commitment!
As you know, apportionments are used to support crucial ministries across our conference, nation, and world as United Methodists. Your church, along with 53 others in our River Valley District, kept this covenant. Thank you for your faithfulness! Please share and celebrate the enclosed Certificate of Appreciation recognizing your excellence in giving.
In the United Methodist church, apportioned funds are what enable United Methodists to do ministry together. You have supported the connectional staff members who provide the leadership throughout the state and throughout our denomination. Apportionments help provide health insurance to retired clergy. They help start new faith communities and enable churches to engage in ministry turnarounds. Your faithful intentional and sacrificial giving allows the benevolence and mission projects of the General Church and Annual Conference to continue in life-changing ways. Your giving indeed, transforms the world!
Your gifts as a congregation are a vital expression of the scriptural imperatives to grow in love of God and neighbor, reach new people for Christ, and help heal a broken world. Together, God is using us to bless our world in Christ’s name.
With a joyful and grateful heart, Cynthia D. Williams, District Superintendent
Dear Pastor, Members, and Friends of Mount Bethel United Methodist Church:
Thank you for your accomplishment of paying 100 percent apportionments in 2021! The past year brought disruption and uncertainty as we continued to navigate the pandemic. You have been good stewards who persevered and in trust, honored this commitment!
As you know, apportionments are used to support crucial ministries across our conference, nation, and world as United Methodists. Your church, along with 53 others in our River Valley District, kept this covenant. Thank you for your faithfulness! Please share and celebrate the enclosed Certificate of Appreciation recognizing your excellence in giving.
In the United Methodist church, apportioned funds are what enable United Methodists to do ministry together. You have supported the connectional staff members who provide the leadership throughout the state and throughout our denomination. Apportionments help provide health insurance to retired clergy. They help start new faith communities and enable churches to engage in ministry turnarounds. Your faithful intentional and sacrificial giving allows the benevolence and mission projects of the General Church and Annual Conference to continue in life-changing ways. Your giving indeed, transforms the world!
Your gifts as a congregation are a vital expression of the scriptural imperatives to grow in love of God and neighbor, reach new people for Christ, and help heal a broken world. Together, God is using us to bless our world in Christ’s name.
With a joyful and grateful heart, Cynthia D. Williams, District Superintendent
Our 2022 Easter Garden
J & K Alich in memory of family who are with Jesus
M & George Anich’s in memory of parents & honor of grandchildren
D & A Ashley remembering loved ones
S Draine honoring loved ones
Eck family in memory of Eck & Bellow family members
Gregg family in memory of Linda Stinemates,
Joe & John Gregg
J Larson in memory of Ron Larson
B Mahovlich In honor of daughters Katie & Becky
M Mikyla in memory of John Mikyla
J Nelson in memory of Wayne & Brian Nelson
A Roberts in memory of Don Roberts
Tabbert’s in memory of Kim Tabbert, Mel Tabbert & Curt Kroening
W Walsey in memory of Mary Lou Walsey
J & K Alich in memory of family who are with Jesus
M & George Anich’s in memory of parents & honor of grandchildren
D & A Ashley remembering loved ones
S Draine honoring loved ones
Eck family in memory of Eck & Bellow family members
Gregg family in memory of Linda Stinemates,
Joe & John Gregg
J Larson in memory of Ron Larson
B Mahovlich In honor of daughters Katie & Becky
M Mikyla in memory of John Mikyla
J Nelson in memory of Wayne & Brian Nelson
A Roberts in memory of Don Roberts
Tabbert’s in memory of Kim Tabbert, Mel Tabbert & Curt Kroening
W Walsey in memory of Mary Lou Walsey
🌴 April 10th 10a. 🌴Palm Sunday Worship in person & livestream
April 14th 6p. Maundy Thursday Worship & 🍞🍷 Communion
April 17th 10a. Easter Worship in person & livestream 🐣
Our Easter offerings will be designated to UMCOR-Ukraine
April 14th 6p. Maundy Thursday Worship & 🍞🍷 Communion
April 17th 10a. Easter Worship in person & livestream 🐣
Our Easter offerings will be designated to UMCOR-Ukraine
Lent 2022 Lenten Sermon Series ~
The Journey of the Cross: The Meaning of the Cross for the Kingdom of God and holy living
Lenten Bible Study every Wednesday at 4pm
~ in person & Zoom meeting in Fellowship hall.
The study will focus on The Journey of the Cross. We will explore the meaning of the cross and how it is the door to the Kingdom of God.
“I Am A Christian” by Maya Angelou
When I say … “I am a Christian” I’m not shouting “I’m clean livin’.” I’m whispering “I was lost, now I’m found and forgiven.”
When I say … “I am a Christian” I don’t speak of this with pride. I’m confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.
When I say … “I am a Christian” I’m not trying to be strong. I’m professing that I’m weak and need His strength to carry on.
When I say … “I am a Christian” I’m not bragging of success. I’m admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess.
When I say … “I am a Christian” I’m not claiming to be perfect, my flaws are far too visible but, God believes I am worth it.
When I say … “I am a Christian” I still feel the sting of pain. I have my share of heartaches so I call upon His name.
When I say … “I am a Christian” I’m not holier than thou, I’m just a simple sinner who received God’s good grace, somehow.
March to April 10th was the Minnesota FoodShare March Campaign for Neighbors Inc Food Shelf.
We actively participated in “neighbors helping neighbors” for Neighbors, Inc. food shelf to help feed our neighbors in need with a $720 donation. The Mt Bethel's Mission fund matched Generous Giving for the FoodShare March Campaign to Neighbors Inc Food Shelf up to $500.
Neighbors Inc reports that $$$ donations go further due to access to food banks and discount purchasing programs, allowing food shelves to purchase items most needed in their community.
We actively participated in “neighbors helping neighbors” for Neighbors, Inc. food shelf to help feed our neighbors in need with a $720 donation. The Mt Bethel's Mission fund matched Generous Giving for the FoodShare March Campaign to Neighbors Inc Food Shelf up to $500.
Neighbors Inc reports that $$$ donations go further due to access to food banks and discount purchasing programs, allowing food shelves to purchase items most needed in their community.
March 2022 we made ready For UMCOR Sunday ~ March 27, the humanitarian relief and development arm of The United Methodist Church. The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) equips churches and individuals for ministry with people in need. UMCOR responds to U.S. and international disasters, addresses diseases and poverty, assists refugees and immigrants, provides clean water, and works to reduce hunger. UMCOR would be unable to do this work without our support. Absolutely 100 percent of our gifts to UMCOR projects support mission and ministry. No overhead costs are allocated from gifts to projects. Who supports UMCOR’s overhead cost? Us, You, We. Our sustaining gifts on UMCOR Sunday, lay the foundation for UMCOR to share God’s love with communities everywhere. For more than eighty years, United Methodists have faithfully given to UMCOR Sunday (formerly One Great Hour of Sharing). Thank you! Mt Bethel's Mission fund matched all giving up to $500 for UMCOR Sunday. Additionally, we offer 🙏 of peace and security for Ukraine 🇺🇦. UMCOR is in communication with partners in the region and actively coordinating a humanitarian response in Ukraine and surrounding areas. Global Ministries, UMCOR-Ukraine. The Mt Bethel Mission fund matched giving to UMCOR-Ukraine up to $500. Givers were asked to mark gift UMCOR-Ukraine OR UMCOR Sunday. UMCOR giving undesignated was split 50:50 SUNDAY & UKRAINE.
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🙏 Our Conversations at the Crossroads - Mt Bethel Church Discernment Prayer
Oh God, we come before you asking for your help and guidance as we move forward in serving You. Help us to be open to new ideas and listen for Your guidance. Help us to know, to understand, where or what You want our service to be. Thank you Lord, for being with us as we travel this road. In Jesus Name we pray. Amen |
Conversations at the Crossroads - Small Church Discernment Process. most recent communications listed first.
- 3/19/2022 Ad Board meeting with Paul Woolverton a time of conversation and learning the details of Mt Bethel Church Discernment process. Above prayer for Mt Bethel's next steps.... seeking God's guidance.
- 3/10/2022 Pastor Dave's email to Ad Board into of Paul Woolverton, meeting time & Detailed outline of Conversations at the Crossroads - Small Church Discernment Process
- Timeline - Outline Conversations at the Crossroads - Spring 2022
- Pastor Dave’s email to Ad Board leadership March 5, 2022 summary of conversation with Susan Nienaber. and introducing Rev. Paul Woolverton to be our consultant.
- Ad Board Chair, Mark Z message: Pastor David Johnston to be our transition Pastor. March 3, 2022
We ordered Easter flowers in Honor or in Memory of a loved ones,
Options; White Easter Lily or Grow & Show Bulb garden.
The plant(s) you purchase are yours to take home after Easter morning worship service.
Options; White Easter Lily or Grow & Show Bulb garden.
The plant(s) you purchase are yours to take home after Easter morning worship service.
3/3/2022
D.S. Cynthia Williams met with our Staff Pastor Parish Relations Team on Tuesday, March 1 to talk through the future of Mt Bethel Church and the transition to a new pastor. Conclusion, Pastor David Johnston will continue on as pastor of Mt Bethel Church and help facilitate Conversations at the Crossroads planning process. Read more here.
Mark Zahn, Ad Board Chair
D.S. Cynthia Williams met with our Staff Pastor Parish Relations Team on Tuesday, March 1 to talk through the future of Mt Bethel Church and the transition to a new pastor. Conclusion, Pastor David Johnston will continue on as pastor of Mt Bethel Church and help facilitate Conversations at the Crossroads planning process. Read more here.
Mark Zahn, Ad Board Chair
Lent 2022 Lenten Sermon Series ~
The Journey of the Cross: The Meaning of the Cross for the Kingdom of God and holy living
March 2, 2022 7pm Ash Wednesday Worship
Beginning March 9, Lenten Bible Study every Wednesday at 4pm
~ in person & Zoom meeting in Pastor David’s office.
The study will focus on The Journey of the Cross. We will explore the meaning of the cross and how it is the door to the Kingdom of God.
The Journey of the Cross: The Meaning of the Cross for the Kingdom of God and holy living
March 2, 2022 7pm Ash Wednesday Worship
Beginning March 9, Lenten Bible Study every Wednesday at 4pm
~ in person & Zoom meeting in Pastor David’s office.
The study will focus on The Journey of the Cross. We will explore the meaning of the cross and how it is the door to the Kingdom of God.
Dear Friends:
During winter 2022 I have been preaching a sermon series at Mt Bethel Church of Inver Grove Heights entitled, The Journey of Love. This series of messages is taken from my studies and reflections for my Doctor of Ministry dissertation for United Seminary of St. Paul. The theme of my sermon series is The Endless Love of God for All and the biblical basis for post-mortem salvation.
Would you kindly take a few minutes to fill out this survey and give me your honest feedback on my sermon series? Your feedback is very important as it will help me to refine my dissertation and to make the necessary changes to make it more understandable, clear and concise. You can leave your name at the bottom of the survey or remain anonymous according to your personal preference. Now to 3/3/22. Thank you for your help!
Pastor David Johnston Sermon series main points: The Journey of Love. God's endless love scripture outline
God is still speaking truth today
God’s endless love for all people
God’s endless forgiveness for all people
God’s justice for all people
God’s endless love and grace for all people and the opportunity for repentance, belief and salvation even postmortem (after death)
The messages of this sermon series are based upon the teachings of the Bible
During winter 2022 I have been preaching a sermon series at Mt Bethel Church of Inver Grove Heights entitled, The Journey of Love. This series of messages is taken from my studies and reflections for my Doctor of Ministry dissertation for United Seminary of St. Paul. The theme of my sermon series is The Endless Love of God for All and the biblical basis for post-mortem salvation.
Would you kindly take a few minutes to fill out this survey and give me your honest feedback on my sermon series? Your feedback is very important as it will help me to refine my dissertation and to make the necessary changes to make it more understandable, clear and concise. You can leave your name at the bottom of the survey or remain anonymous according to your personal preference. Now to 3/3/22. Thank you for your help!
Pastor David Johnston Sermon series main points: The Journey of Love. God's endless love scripture outline
God is still speaking truth today
God’s endless love for all people
God’s endless forgiveness for all people
God’s justice for all people
God’s endless love and grace for all people and the opportunity for repentance, belief and salvation even postmortem (after death)
The messages of this sermon series are based upon the teachings of the Bible
February 9, 2022
Dear Friends of Mt Bethel Church:
I believe that God is leading me to resign as the pastor of Mt Bethel Church as of June 30, 2022. I have informed our D.S. Cynthia Williams of my intentions. She will be in contact with Dan Glenn and the SPPR Team concerning the new pastoral appointment for Mt Bethel Church.
I’d like to thank the leadership and the congregation for the opportunity to serve as the pastor of Mt Bethel Church over the last four years. Also, I’d like to thank Bishop David Bard and D.S. Cynthia Williams for the opportunity to serve in the MN UMC over the last seven years. It has been a tremendous privilege.
In His Love, Pastor David Johnston
Mt Bethel Church Inver Grove Heights, MN
Dear Friends of Mt Bethel Church:
I believe that God is leading me to resign as the pastor of Mt Bethel Church as of June 30, 2022. I have informed our D.S. Cynthia Williams of my intentions. She will be in contact with Dan Glenn and the SPPR Team concerning the new pastoral appointment for Mt Bethel Church.
I’d like to thank the leadership and the congregation for the opportunity to serve as the pastor of Mt Bethel Church over the last four years. Also, I’d like to thank Bishop David Bard and D.S. Cynthia Williams for the opportunity to serve in the MN UMC over the last seven years. It has been a tremendous privilege.
In His Love, Pastor David Johnston
Mt Bethel Church Inver Grove Heights, MN
1/19/2022
"Dear Friends of Mt. Bethel,
We wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for your love and support you gave our family during the time of Don’s passing. Your prayers, cards, calls, memorials and words of encouragement brought us much comfort. We, also, want to thank you for hosting the visitation for Don at Mt. Bethel. We appreciate all you did to help us have a safe gathering that allowed our family to grieve with so many people that he had an impact on. As you know, Don loved this church and the people of Mt. Bethel, and we are thankful that part of his life celebration could take place here. We are humbled by your kindness and servant hearts to make the visitation at Mt. Bethel happen.
With Much Love and Gratitude, Ardi Roberts and family "
"Dear Friends of Mt. Bethel,
We wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for your love and support you gave our family during the time of Don’s passing. Your prayers, cards, calls, memorials and words of encouragement brought us much comfort. We, also, want to thank you for hosting the visitation for Don at Mt. Bethel. We appreciate all you did to help us have a safe gathering that allowed our family to grieve with so many people that he had an impact on. As you know, Don loved this church and the people of Mt. Bethel, and we are thankful that part of his life celebration could take place here. We are humbled by your kindness and servant hearts to make the visitation at Mt. Bethel happen.
With Much Love and Gratitude, Ardi Roberts and family "
January 2022
A generous gift from church members allowed the Trustees to purchase a new 24" two stage, Simplicity snow thrower, with trigger steering and heated hand grips, electric start.
A generous gift from church members allowed the Trustees to purchase a new 24" two stage, Simplicity snow thrower, with trigger steering and heated hand grips, electric start.
January 1, 2022
Members & Friends of Mt Bethel Church.
Mt Bethel Leadership has consulted and concluded there will be onsite Worship at Mt Bethel Church Sunday, Jan 2, 2022 even though the weather forecast is dangerously cold wind chills around -30 degrees. Worship will also be livestreamed. Vulnerable people are encouraged to stay home and watch on Facebook live stream.
Warmly,
Pastor David Johnston
Mark Z Ad Board Chair
Craig B Trustee Chair
Mary A & Joann L Worship Co-Chairs
Members & Friends of Mt Bethel Church.
Mt Bethel Leadership has consulted and concluded there will be onsite Worship at Mt Bethel Church Sunday, Jan 2, 2022 even though the weather forecast is dangerously cold wind chills around -30 degrees. Worship will also be livestreamed. Vulnerable people are encouraged to stay home and watch on Facebook live stream.
Warmly,
Pastor David Johnston
Mark Z Ad Board Chair
Craig B Trustee Chair
Mary A & Joann L Worship Co-Chairs
The 2021 Thanksgiving & Christmas time offerings
were directed to Neighbors Inc Food Shelf and Heifer International. Our offerings were matched by a
MOE/missions grant: up to $500/Neighbors Inc & $500/Heifer Project.
Thank you for your generosity with these projects of the MOE Team that help locally and out in the world.
Heifer Int – Thanksgiving/Christmas offering and MOE Match sent- $490
Neighbor’s -Thanksgiving/Christmas offering and MOE Match sent- $780
UMCOR – Special offering and MOE Match sent- $300
were directed to Neighbors Inc Food Shelf and Heifer International. Our offerings were matched by a
MOE/missions grant: up to $500/Neighbors Inc & $500/Heifer Project.
Thank you for your generosity with these projects of the MOE Team that help locally and out in the world.
Heifer Int – Thanksgiving/Christmas offering and MOE Match sent- $490
Neighbor’s -Thanksgiving/Christmas offering and MOE Match sent- $780
UMCOR – Special offering and MOE Match sent- $300
