October 21 Announcements
Quilt and Kits Blessing: The sanctuary has been beautifully graced with the baby kits, school kits and quilts made with loving hands and generous hearts by the Rachel Circle and other volunteers. The kits and quilts will be sent to Lutheran World Relief to help those in need throughout the world. A time-honored tradition at Bethany, we will be blessing the quilts and kits at both services this weekend, October 23rd and 24th.
Affordable Housing Increased Density Bonus: On Tuesday, October 26 the Bainbridge Island City Council is scheduled to consider the request of Bethany Lutheran Church for an “increased density bonus” in order to pursue its vision for affordable housing on its property. It is critical for the City Council to understand the importance of affordable housing in our community and the opportunity Bethany provides to address it. We urge you to communicate by email with the City Council. In order to provide you background information regarding Bethany’s vision, click here for Talking Points developed by its Affordable Housing Task Force. Please do NOT forward the Talking Points in your communication but tell in your own words why Bethany's request to move forward with its affordable housing initiative should be supported. Emails can be sent to City Council members at For more information on Bethany's Affordable Housing initiative or the upcoming city council meeting visit the Affordable Housing page on our website: http://bethanyofbainbridge.org/affordable-housing/
Reformation Sunday: Wear your best red to worship next weekend (October 30/31) as we celebrate Reformation Sunday. On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther posted his statement of faith, known as the 95 Theses, on the door of Castle Church in Wittenburg, Germany. Today we wear red on Reformation Sunday because it represents the Holy Spirit and that we all have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit through baptism.
Bible Study Groups in November: The Rachel Bible Study group will meet on Tuesday, November 2nd at 10am. The Women’s Bible Study group will meet on Monday, November 8th at 9:30am. The Men’s Bible Study group will meet Tuesday, November 9th and Tuesday, November 23rd at 8:00am.
Endowment Fund Applications: The application period has now ended for Endowment Fund grants. The Endowment Fund committee has met and will be making its recommendation to the Bethany Church Council. Award recipients will be announced once the Council has ratified the recommendations of the committee. The Bethany Mission Endowment Fund was created to support and expand the mission and ministry of Bethany Lutheran Church in ways not possible using the annual operating budget.
Altar Flowers: The altar flowers are given this weekend by Norm and Birgit Davis in honor of Birgit’s sister Kerstin’s 80th birthday.
Prayer Are Extended for: Wayne Richmond as he recovers from an illness and hospitalization, Dave and Gail Christenen's grandson Anders who had successful heart surgery and is now resting at home.