December 2011 Newsletter.pdf

Bethlehem Baptist Church
Family Discipleship Department

December 2011 News & Calendar
Vol. 6                                 No. 12
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Fighter Verses, Set 1:
Start memorizing the verse on this date:
December 4      1 John 1:8–9
December 11    Psalm 23:1–2                
December 18    Psalm 23:3–4
December 25    Psalm 23:5–6
  
Fighter Verses
Visit the new www.fighterverses.com to find tips for memorizing the Bethlehem Fighter Verses.

Fighter Verse Resource Information
Downtown or South Site, please contact Betty Dodge (612-338-7653 x490); North families, please contact Ruth Gulbranson (612-455-0800 x808).

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A Legacy of Misery or Bliss
David Michael, Pastor for Parenting & Family Discipleship

On and off over the past couple of years I have been digitizing a box full of old Michael family photographs dating back to the late 1800’s. I remember looking at many of these photographs in my childhood, but I never studied them like I have since starting this project. While scanning, cropping, labeling and dating, this text from Psalm 103 has often come to mind.

“As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more.” Psalm 103:15-16

From photograph to photograph I observed relatives as babies who grew up, married, had children, grew-old and were then marked by their gravestones in Union Dale Cemetery.

Throughout this project I have wondered what legacy I have inherited from these men and women.

“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”  Mark 8:36

Judging by the pictures and from what I know of the family history, it seems that my Michael forefathers were consistently upright citizens, industrious, good with their hands, willing to do hard things and—unregenerate.

“But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain.”
1 Corinthians 15:10

By the amazing grace of God, the legacy of unbelief was broken shortly before I was born when my father (and mother) were introduced to the Gospel and trusted Christ. My mom and dad did not hide the Gospel but faithfully made known to their children “the glorious deeds of the LORD, and his might, and the wonders that he has done” (Psalm 78:4).

“…..visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children's children, to the third and the fourth generation." Exodus 34:7

In 1877 a study was published by researcher Richard Dugdale entitled The Jukes: A Study in Crime, Pauperism, Disease, and Heredity1. “Max Jukes” is the name Dugdale assigned to the “patriarch” of the 1,026 descendants he studied. Max was described as “a hard drinking, jolly and companionable man averse to steady toil who married a girl of similar character.” From this union, 300 died prematurely; 310 died as paupers, 100 were sent to prison for an average of 13 years each, 190 were public prostitutes, 100 were drunkards, and 7 were murderers. By 1877, Dugdale notes that this family cost the state of New York $1.2 million which is about $24 million in today’s dollars.

“Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in his commandments! His offspring will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.” Psalm 112:1-2

In 1900, another researcher, A.E. Winship, studied 1,400 descendants of Jonathan and Sarah Edwards who were given the first of their eleven children in 1728. Winship compared his findings on the Edwards family with Dugdale’s study of the Jukes family and published "Jukes-Edwards A Study in Education and Heredity.2 From the union of Jonathan and Sarah came 13 college presidents, 65 professors, 100 lawyers, a dean of an outstanding law school, 30 judges, 66 physicians, 80 holders of public office, 3 U.S. senators, mayors of three large cities, governors of three states, a Vice President of the United States, a controller of the United States Treasury…..

"Members of the family wrote 135 books and edited 18 journals and periodicals. They entered the ministry in platoons and sent 100 missionaries overseas, as well as stocking many mission boards with lay trustees... The line continues to be vigorous, intelligent, enlivening to society.”3

Certainly the transforming power of God through Jesus Christ is not tied to a family legacy. God is free to save and not save whoever he pleases. But neither is legacy irrelevant to how God is often pleased to make his glory and Gospel known. He means for us as parents and as a church to faithfully commend his works and declare his mighty acts to the next generations (Psalm 145:4). As a rule, parents who are faithful to this calling often leave a legacy of blessing to those coming after them and, similarly, unfaithful parents who keep their children from Gospel influence often leave a legacy of misery.

In a book written for young men, 19th century British pastor John Angel James, wrote:

“Some woman’s destiny for life will hang upon you, and the happiness of a family, perhaps a numerous one; and then upon their conduct will depend, by an onward succession, the destiny of others to descend from them. You will thus commence a dark or a bright line of human existence, which will run onward through all future generations, and be still going forward when the last trump shall sound.  Misery or bliss, at the distance of centuries, or at the very antipodes, may be traced back to you.”4
 
A legacy of misery or bliss is influenced by our passions. Our children and their children after them are more likely to treasure what we treasure, delight in what we delight in and have passion for our passions. This is why we aim “to spread a passion for (not merely a knowledge of) the supremacy of God….” This is also why Moses instructed Israel that the “words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children….” Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Unless these words are on our hearts; unless we treasure Christ and delight in His word; unless we have a passion for His supremacy in all things for the joy of all peoples; we will be less likely to talk about these glories when we sit in our house, when we walk on the way, when we lie down, when we rise (Deuteronomy 6:7) and when we eat or drink or whatever we do (2 Corinthians 10:31). If God is not glorious in our eyes it is unlikely that we will impart a glorious legacy of faith to our descendants.

If this makes sense, then let’s consider how we are living our lives before our children at home and at church. May God grant us the grace as parents and pastors and children’s workers to impart passion for Him along with knowledge of Him and leave for the generations coming behind us a legacy of fear and delight in the Lord for all the days of their lives and then forever and ever.
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1 "’The Jukes’: A Study in Crime, Pauperism, Disease, and Heredity : Also Further Studies of Criminals." Internet Archive: Digital Library of Free Books, Movies, Music & Wayback Machine. Web. 28 Nov. 2011.
2 "Jukes-Edwards A Study in Education and Heredity / Winship, A. E." Infomotions. Web. 28 Nov. 2011.
3 "SGCB | MARRIAGE TO A DIFFICULT MAN: The Uncommon Union of Jonathan & Sarah Edwards." http://solid-ground-books.com Solid Christian Books for the Whole Family. Web. 28 Nov. 2011. <http://www.solid-ground-books.com/detail_90.asp?flag=1>.
4 James, John Angell, Addresses to Young Men: A Young Man’s Friend and Guide, Morgan, PA: Soli Deo Gloria Publications, 1995.  Originally published in 1860, p.32.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
DECEMBER
10 Sat, DT Sr High Parent-Equipping Seminar
18 Sun, Union Gospel Mission Outreach
21, 28 Wed, No Kids Connection (Christmas Break)
25 Sun, No Sunday School (Christmas Break)
JANUARY 2012
1 Sun, No Sunday School (New Years Break)
4 Wed, Fighter Verse Kick-off
14 Sat, Foundation Builders 1
18 Wed, Youth Baptism Mentor Orientation Session, North
21 Sat, Youth Baptism Mentor Orientation Session, Downtown
24 Tue, Youth Baptism Mentor Orientation Session, South
25 Wed, Youth Baptism Mentor Orientation Session, Downtown
26 Thu, Mid-Year Refresh for Family Discipleship Volunteers  LINK
28 Sat, Sr High Fathers Prayer Breakfast
28 Sat, Youth Baptism Mentor Orientation Session, North  
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WALL DISPLAY NEW LOCATIONS
Family Discipleship brochures or resources can now be found in the following locations:
North: by the nurseries in Hallway B, near the reception desk at the north end of Hallway A, and in Hallway D;
Downtown: by the nurseries, (lower level, under the sanctuary), and on 2nd & 3rd floors next to the elevator;
South: at the information desk.
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Advent Resources
Celebrating CHRISTmas
With the increasingly difficult struggle that families have to keep Christ central in Christmas, Noel Piper has put together a booklet, Celebrating CHRISTmas, that is full of ideas to help your family focus on what is most central this Advent season. Copies of the booklet are available at all campuses or can be downloaded here.

Advent Calendar Devotional
In the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season, it is easy to subtly lose the true meaning of Christmas and the reason we celebrate. Meditating each day on the grace and sovereign plan of God in sending His Son incarnate could help your family navigate this season with a focus on Christ. The linked Advent Calendar Devotional is one means of helping your family ponder the Christmas story daily. Each day of advent, a scripture passage telling a portion of the Christmas story is highlighted as your family fashions a calendar of events leading to the birth of Christ and culminating in His identity as the Lamb of God. Let us rejoice together in the birth of our Savior this Advent season.
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DT Sr High Parent-Equipping Seminar with Pastor Kempton Turner
What: "Helping Your Children Discern God's Will For Their Lives
Who:  All parents of Sr. High students on the Downtown campus (please bring your sr. high children as well!)
When:  Saturday, December 10th from 9am–12pm
Where:  Downtown Campus, Room 114
Note: Snacks and refreshments will be provided. There will also be a time of Q & A.
RSVP: by Monday, December 5 if you plan to attend. Click here to fill out the RSVP form, or email Emily Weller.
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Did you miss the 2011 Family Discipleship Fall Volunteer Training?
Or do you need encouragement in your ministry to children or youth?
Audio and video recordings as well as other resources are now available on our website at http://www.hopeingod.org/document/family-discipleship-volunteer-training-2011
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2012 Fighter Verse Kick-Off
Campus & Location: Downtown, Sanctuary
Wednesday, January 4, 2012 - 6:15pm - 8:30pm
All-Church Connection at the Downtown Campus*
Celebrate the 2012 Fighter Verse Kick-Off.
Join us as we begin 2012 with a kick-off for the brand new Fighter Verses, Set 2.  The evening will include a time of worship led by the Fighter Verse Song Quartet, skits, a message by Dr. Jason Meyer, free resources to help you memorize God’s Word, as well as discounts at the Bethlehem Bookstore on Fighter Verse resources. Don’t miss out!
*No Connection events will take place at the North Campus or the South Site on January 4; all are invited to join us Downtown for this All-Church Connection.
This All-Church Connection offers two dinner seating times. Reservations are required (with the Downtown Campus Receptionist at 612-338-7653 by Friday, December 30, at 5:00pm).
1st Seating is 4:30–5:15pm
2nd Seating is 5:15–6:00pm
For more information about the Kick-Off, contact Betty Dodge (612-338-7653 x490).
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Is there a young person in your family that is interested in baptism?
Learn how Bethlehem works with families on this important step by coming to a
Youth Baptism Mentor Training
Downtown Campus:
•    Saturday, January 21, 8:00–9:30am
•    Wednesday, January 25, 6:45–8:15pm
South 501 Bldg:
•    Tuesday, January 24, 6:30–8:00pm
North Campus:
•    Wednesday, January 18, 6:45–8:15pm
•    Saturday, January 28, 8:00–9:30am
The Youth Baptism Mentor Training is designed to help prepare mentors (most often parents) for their significant role in the youth baptism preparation process. This session will provide an opportunity for mentors to get acquainted with each other and to be equipped to prepare the candidate for baptism. For more information, see the brochure. To sign up for a session, contact Lori Myers at 612-338-7653 x480. Note: Youth candidates should not attend this session.
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Volunteer Help Needed
Nursery Downtown
At least 6 more volunteers or, if necessary, paid workers, are needed each week to adequately staff the Wed night Connection Nurseries. Please prayerfully consider this opportunity to serve. Call Lisa Burk (612-338-7653, x495) if interested. If you are not already a cleared nursery volunteer, fill out the online volunteer application, or pick up an application in the wall displays.
Nursery North
Workers are needed at all services (Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday and MOMS). Call Carmen Tomaszewski (612-455-0800, x807) if interested. If you are not already a cleared nursery volunteer, fill out the online volunteer application, or pick up an application in the wall displays.
Kiosk Check-In
•    Prior to each service
•    Flexible scheduling
•    30 –45 minutes per scheduled time
Contact Amy Katterson to learn more.
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Parents Learning Together
This year, every campus has a parenting class either on Sunday morning or Wednesday evening. Consider being a part of this community on your campus and receive a better understanding of parenting and the encouragement we all need.

Downtown–Room 318; Wednesdays, 6:50pm
Leaders: Dick and Julie Dahl
Focus: Parenting 101—An overview of parenting principles with an emphasis on parenting in the early years

North–D504; Sundays, 10:45am
Leaders: Vince and Kathy Johnson; Tim and Gretchen Held
Focus: To equip parents to understand the challenges and opportunities of the teenage years and to provide instruction in biblical peacemaking

South–Choir Room A133; Sundays, 10:45am
Leaders: Brian and Cindy Eaton; Chris and Barb Johnson
Focus: Grace-based parenting, biblical manhood and womanhood, parenting the angry teen, and helping our teens develop the right set of values.
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Union Gospel Mission (UGM) Outreach
3rd Sunday of the month, 3:30pm (meet at Downtown Campus Kitchen to prepare food)
4:15pm (depart Downtown Campus for UGM in St Paul)
Next Meeting: December 18
Young adults, youth, and their parents are invited to join us for outreach of sharing food, friendly conversation, and the gospel to clients at UGM. Note: Must wear closed-toed shoes and socks to help prepare food. For more information contact Emily Weller (612-338-7653 x484).
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READ ON . . .
Featured parenting resources recommended by Sally Michael, Minister for Resources and Program Development:

Looking for practical insights for young men? Pick up Created for Work by Bob Schultz. With titles like “Dirt,” “Exit Strategy,” “The Plumb Line,” “Keeping Your Word,” and “The Donut Race,” this practical book is compiled of 3 page entries which teach young boys the attitudes and disciplines of working. The stories can easily be read before bed time as a wonderful discussion springboard to great conversation with your son. (Note: Bob Schultz is author of Boyhood and Beyond.)

Practical Happiness by Bob Schultz
“Behind their brave and independent exteriors young men are searching for answers. Without counsel how can they find the path that leads to inner joy and lasting contentment?”

Bob Schultz provides such counsel in his book Practical Happiness. This book is full of short, captivating stories intentionally teaching young men that a life of contentment can only be found in seeking the heart of God. With titles like “Deep-Sea Diving,” “Scaffold Wrestling,” “Discouragement on Willamette Pass,” “Sick and Tired of Family Devotions,” “Where’s the End Zone,” and “Outwitting a Weak Mind,” these intriguing stories will interest your son while teaching him valuable life lessons and attitudes.
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If you haven’t yet filled out your Family Registration Form, please fill it out online or pick up a paper copy in the Family Discipleship wall displays. With one form you can register your children (Nursery through Sr High) for 2011–12 programming, and let us know of address changes, allergies, and special needs. Plus, you can sign up to get a barcode key fob to check in your family at a self check-in kiosk!
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SAVE THE DATE
2012 Winter Retreat
February 3-5, 2012
For 7-12 Grade Students
Look for Registration Details Sent to you later this month.

Baccalaureate Service and Open House for Bethlehem graduating seniors
Friday, June 8, 2012, 7pm
Downtown Campus
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Family Discipleship Staff:  612-338-7653

Ministry Staff- Pastors, Ministers, & Interns
Bud Burk, Pastor for Child & Youth Discipleship, Downtown & South
Ben Collins, Intern for Youth Discipleship, North
Aaron Davitch, Director for Adult Ministries and Child/Youth Discipleship, South
Ian Gerstl, Intern for Disability Ministry, North
Joyce Heinrich, Minister for Early Childhood
Lance Kramer, Intern for Young Adult Discipleship, North
Jeff Lacine, Coordinator for Young Adult Discipleship, South
Gil McConnell, Pastor for Child & Youth Discipleship, North
David Michael, Pastor for Parenting & Family Discipleship
Sally Michael, Minister for Resources and Program Development
Jon Nowlin, Pastor for Young Adult (Senior High) Discipleship, North
Kempton Turner, Pastor for Young Adult (Senior High) Discipleship, Downtown
Daniel Viezbicke, Intern for Young Adult Discipleship, Downtown

Ministry Staff-Coordinators
Lisa Burk, Coordinator for Early Childhood, Downtown
Betty Dodge, Coordinator for Family Life
Brenda Fischer, Coordinator for Disability Ministry
Connie Oman, Coordinator for Training & Classroom Support
Carmen Tomaszewski, Coordinator for Early Childhood, North
Bonnie Williams, Lead Childcare Coordinator, South

Ministry Support Staff
Ruth Chavis, Ministry Assistant for Family Discipleship, South
Kevin Dau, Ministry Assistant for Family Discipleship
Ruth Gulbranson, Ministry Assistant for Family Discipleship, North
Madeleine Miller, Ministry Assistant for Family Discipleship
Lori Myers, Family Discipleship Administrator
Julie Norris, Ministry Assistant for Family Discipleship
Suzy Plocher, Ministry Assistant for Family Discipleship
Emily Weller, Ministry Assistant for Family Discipleship, Sr. High (Young Adults)

Childcare Coordinators
Valencia Day, Sunday Worship Downtown
Tiffany Dykstra, Bible Studies Downtown
Yvette Hatch, Saturday Worship Downtown
Susan Lundquist, Wednesday Connection South
Amanda McAlpine, Wednesday Connection Downtown
Claire Olson, Saturday Worship North
Jessica Pluim, Sunday Worship North
Kari Raia, Sunday Worship Downtown
Maggie Sporleder, MOMS & Bible Studies North
Kathy Stokes, MOMS Downtown
Brenda Stoltz, Bible Studies South
Carmen Tomaszewski, Sunday Worship North, Coordinator for Early Childhood, North
Sarah Vogel, Sunday Worship South
Bonnie Williams, Sunday Worship South, Lead Child Care Coordinator, MOMS South
Karleen Witt, Wednesday Connection North