We continue to have many families who need food. We welcome donations of cereal and pasta- such as small bags of spaghetti or macaroni. Welcome onboard Sara Edmiston who will be taking over the liaison and reporting to Oregon Food Bank!
Thanks to all our volunteers! You are making a positive difference in someone’s life!
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We continue to need cans of hearty soup with pop tops for BHS homeless students. Please choose varieties that have meat and vegetable. Teenagers need calories more than any other time in their life!
BHS Soups this week, 330 and need 325 more. 131 students to be helped this Spring Break.
DEI Moment!
Diane Imel (Lady Di) is part of the City of Wilsonville's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee. As part of this committee, she has written a thought provoking article that we feel should be shared with as many people as possible. Thank you Lady Di for sharing. Please read and learn.
Do You Know What You Said?
Recently, I was “called out” by one of my dearest friends regarding a misspeak I had made. This misspeak was unintentional and completely without malice and, unfortunately, prior thought. To say I was stunned is an enormous understatement! However, this “blow” was like the key to a locked door…revealing my ignorance and lack of knowledge regarding the acceptable use of descriptors…. adjectives…words!
How can we know what the appropriate language should be? Where can we educate ourselves to the acceptable phraseology of today? This is the challenge that confronts us each day and one that begs to be addressed.
How often have we misused our adjectives and descriptors… “my Asian butcher, my black friend, my disabled neighbor, the gay librarian, my immigrant school mate”? It is important to recognize and correct these unacceptable and often derogatory phrases. And what about the usage of proper pronouns: he/him, she/her, they/them? These are more relevant now than we realize.
Information on this subject can be found through the internet. “Pronouns: A How-To-The Diversity Center”, Preferred Terms for Select Population Groups “and “A Guide to Race and Ethnicity Terminology and Language” are just three of the informational resource sites available.
It is imperative that we continue our efforts of abolishing all discrimination and the proper usage of our words, as well as the eliminations of other barriers, is a must! These goals of diversity, equity and inclusion may be novel to many…often generational in their nature. This stresses the need for introspection regarding our speech and the inherent strength of the words we use. It is human nature to speak in the moment without thoroughly analyzing what we’re saying but it would be to the benefit of all that we weigh the words we use before utterance. By Diane Imel
INVITATION TO AN INTERFAITH EVENT Jan. 29, 2023
You are invited to an Interfaith Event on Sunday, January 29, 3:00-5:00 PM hosted by Bilal Masjid, 4115 S.W. 160th Ave. Beaverton.
The goal of this event is to begin to build a diverse interfaith coalition to expand understanding of various traditions; build community and enjoy one another’s company; encourage respect and unity in the Beaverton area.
The afternoon will include: panelists from diverse faith traditions; small group conversations; choosing actions/activities to build the coalition.
Epiphany Season Worship Series – January 8 – February 19, 2023
The season of Epiphany follows the celebration of Christmas. This is the liturgical season when we celebrate the “manifestations” of the birth of the Messiah. In the baptism of Jesus, and the miracle stories of Jesus for example turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. in other words, this is the season of “ah-ha” moments. The reality of God’s Incarnation in human form, keeps showing up. The Biblical examples of the season of Epiphany are the “wise men” who came from distant countries, the presentation of Jesus at the temple, the
Our creative and imaginative task during this season is to hear these ancient accounts of God’s Incarnation as invitations to see how and where Christ is showing up in our world today.
This Epiphany, Rev. David R-B will offer lectionary preaching from the book of Matthew. David will build the worship series from The Working Preacher online resource. Working preacher is an on-line community of Biblical scholars from seminaries around the U.S. and other clergy who want to hone their preaching skills thus bringing the Good News of God’s love alive TODAY!
Epiphany Season Worship Series – January 8 – February 19, 2023
See last week’s blog post about the John Nilsen Trio performing this Sunday, Jan. 1st.
The season of Epiphany follows the celebration of Christmas. This is the liturgical season when we celebrate the “manifestations” of the birth of the Messiah. In the baptism of Jesus, and the miracle stories of Jesus for example turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. in other words, this is the season of “ah-ha” moments. The reality of God’s Incarnation in human form, keeps showing up. The Biblical examples of the season of Epiphany are the “wise men” who came from distant countries, the presentation of Jesus at the temple, the
Our creative and imaginative task during this season is to hear these ancient accounts of God’s Incarnation as invitations to see how and where Christ is showing up in our world today.
This Epiphany, Rev. David R-B will offer lectionary preaching from the book of Matthew. David will build the worship series from The Working Preacher online resource. Working preacher is an on-line community of Biblical scholars from seminaries around the U.S. and other clergy who want to hone their preaching skills thus bringing the Good News of God’s love alive TODAY!
Christmas Services
Christmas Eve Worship Service 10PM
It is not difficult to imagine this night as “reflecting the sacred.” We gather and sing and light candles and dare to believe that love truly enters the world time and again and anything is possible. What may be more difficult to understand, however, is that this love is ours, not because we’ve been “good” (as if God is Santa Claus), but simply because we are beloved–the firstborn of God. Our very being reflects the sacred. The incarnation of God in human flesh is proof.
We will gather on Christmas eve for a hybrid service of lessons, carols and candle-lighting at 10pm in the sanctuary. There will be special music from the chancel choir. We hope you’ll join us for this beautiful tradition filled with light, love and mystery.
(https://www.facebook.com/BethelBeaverton/) and (https://zoom.us/j/140844207 or by phone at 1-253-215 8782 Meeting ID: 140 844 207)
Christmas Day Service 2022, Dec. 25th - Pre-recorded
We wanted our staff and volunteers to enjoy the Christmas day activities and traditions they value. So we have created a very special Christmas Day service, Christmas Day – Surprisingly Sacred. You can watch any time online either on YouTube, Facebook or on the website. Remember to celebrate the birth of Jesus in the midst of your holiday activities.
In the early church, Sunday was known as the “day of light.” And so it is special when Christmas falls on a Sunday, as it does in 2022. As light dawns on this morning, as the children scramble to the tree to see what has appeared, we remember that the sacred comes in the form of surprise sometimes, just as it did when light and life was known anew in the form of a baby in a humble stable. Can we dare to believe that we can know a surprising calm even in the midst of anxiety because of the in-breaking of this Prince of Peace upon our lives each and every day?
Our Christmas Day 2022 Worship service will become available on Facebook 10:00 AM Christmas Day. View, worship, and share comments with each other as usual. There will be no Zoom meeting. (https://www.facebook.com/BethelBeaverton/) and YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/0A9eFDbNfes
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, Dec. 24th, 10:00pm
We will gather on Christmas eve for a hybrid service of lessons, carols and candle-lighting at 10pm in the sanctuary. There will be special music from the chancel choir. We hope you’ll join us for this beautiful tradition filled with light, love and mystery.
(https://www.facebook.com/BethelBeaverton/) and Zoom (https://zoom.us/j/140844207 or by phone at 1-253-215 8782 Meeting ID: 140 844 207)
Wassail and Fruit Breads
Sunday, December 18th, after worship service, we have a tradition hosted by the past and current members of the choir, to serve Wassail and fruit breads.
We do this in the old style, beautiful settings, glass punch bowls, and a masterful centerpiece. Wassail is an Old English spiced, warm apple drink (made by Diana Marsden). Traditionally, first cup is served by the Lord of the Manor. Our current Lord of the Manor is David Thoma. He was taught by our longstanding Lord of the Manor (the late George Russell)
He brings out of the kitchen a bowl of wassail and sings (a cappella) 'Wassail, Wassail" and invites everyone to the table for refreshments. Please join us on December 18th, to celebrate the good harvest and the coming new year.
Peace & Blessings
Blue Christmas 2023 Service, Dec. 3 rd, 2:00pm
Each year during Advent, Bethel offers a quieter, more meditative worship service. The holidays can be a difficult time for those who are coping with illness, grief, loss, other difficulties and challenges of life.
This time of year, the culture around us seems to demand hearty good cheer at all times. When we are grieving, in pain, trying to make ends meet, and dealing with the continued uncertainty of the pandemic and how to have a safe holiday celebration, we may feel out of step and off balance.
The Blue Christmas Worship Service gives us an opportunity to give voice to our pain and frustration, and the opportunity to allow the Holy Spirit to minister to us through candlelight, music, and, if desired, the ancient practice of anointing with oil. The Blue Christmas Worship Service will take place Sunday, December 3rd at 2 pm as a hybrid service.
For further information, please contact Pastor David at drb@bethelbeaverton.org.
Annual Bethel Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Join us Friday, December 2, 2022, 7PM for our annual Christmas tree decorating. Bring weather resistant ornaments to decorate the tree. We will also sing some fun and familiar Christmas Carols, close with prayer. Then enjoy Christmas cookies, cocoa /coffee in the Fellowship Hall.
"The Gingerbread Bash" Family Advent Activity
Dear Bethel Families,
We hope you and your kids will come celebrate Advent with the “The Gingerbread Bash” Friday, December 2, 5:30 -7:00 pm. This is a Bethel family activity (including kids "of all ages") building “gingerbread house style” nativity scenes! The Faith Development Committee will provide all supplies including graham crackers, candies, cookies and frosting. Busy builders will also enjoy pizza for dinner in the Fellowship Hall at 5:30 PM and share in the story of Advent, get sticky and share the fun!
Please RSVP for us to buy the right amount of pizza and supplies to: Jan Hodge.
After “The Gingerbread Bash” will be the Bethel’s Annual Christmas Tree - Lighting Ceremony at 7:00 PM – with Christmas cookies, cocoa /coffee to follow!
"The Gingerbread Bash" Family Advent Activity
Dear Bethel Families,
We hope you and your kids will come celebrate Advent with the “The Gingerbread Bash” Friday, December 2, 5:30 -7:00 pm. This is a family activity for kids of all ages and parents; building “gingerbread house style” nativity scenes! The Faith Development Committee will provide all supplies including graham crackers, candies, cookies and frosting. Busy builders will also enjoy pizza for dinner in the Fellowship Hall at 5:30 PM and share in the story of Advent, get sticky and share the fun!
Please RSVP for us to buy the right amount of pizza and supplies to: Jan Hodge.
After “The Gingerbread Bash” will be the Bethel’s Annual Christmas Tree - Lighting Ceremony at 7:00 PM – with Christmas cookies, cocoa /coffee to follow!
BHS Homeless Teens!
In a few weeks, we will deliver over 4 tons of food to teens at Beaverton High School experiencing homelessness. We need canned soup that can function as a meal with a protein and vegetables. We have 343 and need 497 more. Please put them in the racks outside of the Chapel.
And please get ready to volunteer the week of Dec. 11. Many hands make light work!
Stewardship 2022 - Rooted in Love
They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season.
This Sunday we will begin our Stewardship Worship Series - Rooted in Love. During this time we will look at the unique contributions Bethel UCC and the wider church make to our community, our country and the world. You'll have the opportunity to explore what "roots" you in our congregation as well as how the "roots" of Bethel make you stronger. You'll have the opportunity to hear testimonials from members of Bethel of how the roots of love that are a part of our community spread seeds of justice and joy. Our hope is that your "roots" will be nourished as you discern what is yours to give to Bethel in the coming year. Stewardship Sunday will be November 13th. We will also have a place available to leave pledges on November 20th as well. Stewardship packets will be mailed the week of October 30th.
Peace & Blessings
Welcome Melanie Madigan our New Music Director
Melanie grew up in Denver and started singing in choirs at her large Lutheran church when she was five. She continued to have a passion for choral music and chose to attend Concordia College, Moorhead, MN. She received a Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance, and had the privilege of singing under and studying choral conducting with Paul J Christiansen, son to the renowned F. Melius Christiansen who founded the St. Olaf Choir.
Melanie has conducted choirs since graduating from college and has held full time Director of Worship positions at St. John’s Lutheran, Denver and Victory Lutheran, Mesa, AZ. As the Choral Conductor for West Hills Universalist Unitarian from 2014 to 2019 she grew the choir membership from 14 to 33 members. She comes to us from First Christan Church where she has been the Director of Worship since 2019. Melanie has been vocal staff for the Portland Symphonic Choir and toured Europe several times as a paid soloist. Her claim to fame as a choral singer is that she performed in the Sistine Chapel–surreal!
Melanie is also Project Coordinator for the Department of Pediatrics at OHSU. She has 3 children, the youngest of whom will graduate from PSU spring of 2023l. They are her crowning joy and she loves spending time with them. Dancing, hiking and theater are her hobbies.
Melanie is so pleased to be joining the staff at Bethel! Building strong choirs and meaningful worship continues to be her passion and vocation.
A Great Learning Opportunity – Saturday, October 29: 9am-3pm
The Respond to Racism committee will host an all-day retreat in the Bethel Fellowship Hall. The purpose of the retreat is to grow in our understanding of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). And to explore together how we might live more fully into our identity as a church where “whoever you are or wherever you are, you are welcome here.”
Our retreat leader will be Carla Gary. Ms. Gary is a consultant who specializes in diversity and inclusion. She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Oregon and a J.D. from the Iowa School of Law. She is currently serving as the consultant for our Central Pacific Conference.
Five years ago the CPC passed a resolution to become an anti-racist conference. Ms. Gary is assisting the conference in their goal to live into the vision of the resolution.
The retreat is designed to educate and equip Bethel’s staff and lay leadership: Board members, committee chairs and members of committees. However, if you would like to attend this learning opportunity and are not currently in a leadership position, please contact the Bethel church office (503-646-1191) or Office Administrator and share your desire to participate. Everyone who wants to benefit from this retreat will be welcomed to attend.
Neighbors in Need Offering
One of the ways the United Church of Christ celebrates and honors World Communion Sunday is with one of our all church offerings called Neighbors in Need. Neighbors in Need (NIN) is a special mission offering of the United Church of Christ that supports ministries of justice and compassion in the United States.
Historically, one-third of the offering supports Council for American Indian Ministry (CAIM). Two-thirds are used by Justice and Witness Ministries to provide grants to UCC churches and organizations as well as supporting a variety of justice initiatives, advocacy efforts, and direct service projects.
For example, a UCC congregation in South Carolina is building a tiny house for an LBGTQI+ person who finds themselves without a safe place to live because their families deny them their humanity and kick them out. https://www.ucc.org/a-tiny-house-aims-to-provide-big-solutions-for-south-carolina-lgbtq-community/
We will be receiving the Neighbors In Need offerings All of October. If you would like to help, please mail a check to Bethel UCC with NIN in the memo line or visit our website: https://giving.ncsservices.org/App/Giving/bethelucc
Bethel Changing to “Masks Optional”
The Phase Forward Committee has reviewed the survey results, accompanied by current Covid data. We have concluded that for now, masks will be optional for Bethel's Sunday Service Events. Concerns about interaction with the public, singing, and health are real for a number of Bethel people and we expect some will continue to wear masks. We honor and respect people’s decision to wear a mask or not, for whatever reason.
We will have a few rows of social distanced seating available, for those who would feel more comfortable with more space around them. Phase Forward will continue to monitor county Covid data and evaluate our “mask optional” stance, as cases may rise as winter approaches. Thank you for your understanding and support as we work through our options to keep Bethel safe and moving forward.
The Phase Forward Committee has reviewed the survey results, accompanied by current Covid data. We have concluded that for now, masks will be optional at Bethel events. Concerns about interaction with the public, singing, and health are real for a number of Bethel people and we expect some will continue to wear masks. We honor and respect people’s decision to wear a mask or not, for whatever reason.
We will have a few rows of social distanced seating available, for those who would feel more comfortable with more space around them. Phase Forward will continue to monitor county Covid data and evaluate our “mask optional” stance, as cases may rise as winter approaches. Thank you for your understanding and support as we work through our options to keep Bethel safe and moving forward.
All-Church Rummage Sale
Every year Bethel has a HUGE rummage sale that is our biggest fundraising event for the year. One year our proceeds paid off the AC/Heat system in the Fellowship Hall. This year the proceeds will be going to make some badly needed repairs to Bethel’s roof. The sale is an opportunity to clean out your drawers, closets, and garage. It is a place where our Bethel neighbors come to buy affordable clothing and household items. Our leftovers go to many different non-profits. Please join us on Oct. 7th & 8th, 9 AM – 3 PM. It’s great fun, and you might find things for yourself.
Bethel Welcomes Interim Director of Music Ministry
We are excited to welcome Amanda (Mandy) Hofmann-Smith as our interim Director of Music Ministry. Mandy is well known to our congregation as the wife of our former music director, and as a talented musician who has contributed to our music program over Owen’s tenure.
Mandy will be providing leadership with our chancel choir and our worship band. Also, she will encourage and support soloists or ensembles who may want to share their gifts with the congregation. Mandy and Pastor David will be collaborating to integrate music offerings that support the worship theme of the day.
Mandy’s first official Sunday was September 11th. We have a contract with her through the month of October. She has graciously agreed to extend her time with us through the Advent and Christmas season if we need additional time to search for a permanent Director of Music Ministry.
If you haven’t already, please share a warm welcome with Mandy.