Happy New Year to YOU.
Saturday, December 31, 2022
Tuesday, December 27, 2022
Advent Activities with Kids
Waiting does not come naturally for children. And yet, the Advent season is all about waiting, hope, and anticipation for Jesus’ birth. Special services at your church help families celebrate the coming of Jesus. A wreath of candles placed near the altar commemorate the passing of the four weeks of Advent, and the appearance of purple pastor stoles and church banners reminds us of repentance. To further help children appreciate the meaning behind this season of anticipation, we’ve made a list of Advent ideas to prepare young hearts and minds for Christmas during the Advent season.
Read more, here.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Sunday, December 25, 2022
Wednesday, December 21, 2022
5 ADVENT ACTIVITIES for Catholic Children
In this video I share some advent activities for our beginners, I hope you enjoy!
Sunday, December 18, 2022
See You For Our Christmas Services
Christmas Eve Service
December 24th @ 6:30pm
&
Christmas Morning @ 11:00am
Thursday, December 15, 2022
The Days of Advent Introduction - Brother Francis 17 clip
The Days of Advent - Celebrating the Coming of Our Lord.
Join Brother Francis in this special episode that helps children observe the days of Advent in a way that will be meaningful and fun!
Monday, December 12, 2022
Advent, Week 3
At a time when much of the world is frantically gift shopping, putting up Christmas lawn decorations and anticipating the arrival of Santa Claus, Christians around the world are observing the liturgical season of Advent. From the Latin word for “coming”, Advent is a time of preparation and anticipation for the coming of Christ both in the past in His incarnation as the baby Jesus, but also in the future with His promised second coming as Christ Triumphant. Furthermore, Advent is a time to focus on His present coming to us in the Word and Sacraments.
Read more, here.
Friday, December 9, 2022
‘In All Things’
Some 20,000 Lutheran youth and adults flocked to Houston in July for the 2022 LCMS Youth Gathering.
Photography by Erik M. Lunsford | Fall 2022
On a sunny morning in Houston, around 20,000 LCMS youth and adults heard God’s Word, confessed their sins, received absolution and the Lord’s Supper, and sang together during a Divine Service at Minute Maid Park.
This service was the culmination of the five days of the 2022 LCMS Youth Gathering, held July 9–13 in Houston under the theme “In All Things,” based on Colossians 1:15–20. In a church body of around 1.8 million, Gathering attendees represented more than one out of every 100 LCMS Lutherans, as well as partner churches from 11 other countries.
The week was full of mass events, Bible studies, topical sessions and service projects. Youth groups donated blood, made recordings of books for Concordia Publishing House, and worked with LCMS Recognized Service Organizations like Lutheran Braille Workers and Orphan Grain Train. More than 4,500 participants were deployed to serve throughout the city, and many others built beds for the nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace that were then delivered to children in the Houston area.
Read more, here.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Tuesday, December 6, 2022
November Life Together Digest with Pres. Harrison
In this Life Together Digest, the Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS), visits with the Rev. Dr. Wilhelm Weber in front of the Old Latin School in Wittenberg, Germany.
Weber, the director of the Old Latin School, discusses the joys of being able to house 30 Ukrainian refugees in the building and to hold Divine Services in English and Ukrainian every Sunday, where there is “standing room only” due to the number of Ukrainian Lutherans that attend.
“We’ve got a full house,” says Weber, noting also conferences that have been hosted recently and a spike in post-pandemic tourists.
Saturday, December 3, 2022
Loving and Serving Local Families
Our Savior Lutheran Church in Carol Stream, Ill., serves families in the community through its monthly Breakfast with Baby event.
Photography and story by Erik M. Lunsford | Fall 2022
Before the dew had evaporated on a Saturday morning in May, mothers and their young children were already arriving at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Carol Stream, Ill., outside of Chicago.
Families gathered for the monthly Breakfast with Baby event, an outreach ministry that the church started in October 2019. Despite the pandemic, over 70 families continue to attend.
“We want the whole community to know that Christ has invited them into our home and His home. They are a part of our family and we’re here to take care of them as best we can and not only in Word and Sacrament, but also in physical needs,” said the Rev. Tom Sanders, vacancy pastor at Our Savior.
Inside the church’s gymnasium, tables and racks displayed available children’s clothing, while an area of strollers and toys under a large cross attracted children to one end of the room. Guests waited at the door to register near a sign that read: “God loves you! And so do we!”
Lauren Thomas, a wheelchair-bound mother of two with one more on the way, let daughter Viola ride on her lap with a bag of clothing while son Gideon walked behind, carrying another bag of items. Thomas, who has visited several times, said she’s thankful for the help from the church.
“Breakfast with Baby is a service we’re providing for people who are in need,” said Dawn Janke, one of the coordinators of the event. “We don’t question what that need is. We just know that if they’re coming, they are in need of something.”
Read more, here.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Wednesday, November 30, 2022
Feature ‘Immerse Without Drowning’ : The importance of vicarage on pastoral formation
“It’s not really a question of need,” Vicar Mark Gaschler said. “It’s a question of great joy, of the great opportunity that we have, that God has called men to go out and to bring out His Gospel.” Gaschler, a student at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, was the 32nd vicar to serve at Trinity Lutheran Church in Norman, Okla., under the supervision of the Rev. David Nehrenz, newly elected district president in the LCMS Oklahoma District.
A vicar is a pastor in training. These men are assigned by the Synod’s Council of Presidents, acting as the Board of Assignments, into congregations around the country for a year of hands-on learning under the supervision and mentorship of an experienced pastor. They are not assistant pastors, noted Nehrenz. Instead, they are learning the craft.
Read more, here.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Sunday, November 27, 2022
September 2022 - Life Together Digest with President Harrison
In this Life Together Digest, the Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS), highlights the importance of Christian education, and he gives thanks for the schools and teachers across the Synod.
He also encourages the church to pray for and thank teachers and all other church workers during October, when the LCMS celebrates Church Worker Appreciation Month.
“We thank God for teachers and all church workers, and encourage children to think about church work, too,” said Harrison.
Thursday, November 24, 2022
Happy Thanksgiving.
Happy Thanksgiving from Us to You.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Monday, November 21, 2022
Enjoy Your Thanksgiving Break!
Nov. 21—Nov. 25
Thanksgiving Break
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone: 707.451.6683
Preschool Email: preschool@gobethany.com
(TK-8) Email: myschool@gobethany.com
Website
Friday, November 18, 2022
October 2022 Life Together Digest with President Harrison
In this Life Together Digest, the Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS), discusses Church Worker Appreciation Month.
Harrison introduces the Set Apart to Serve church work recruitment initiative, which is examining the struggles with church worker shortages in the Synod and providing resources for pastors, teachers and other influencers to encourage children to pursue church work.
He encourages us to pray and give thanks for our current church workers, and to pray to the Lord for new pastors, teachers and other church workers (Matt. 9:36–38).
"It's His harvest, they're His workers, and He'll send them. He bids us to pray," says Harrison.
Tuesday, November 15, 2022
Spirit Week : November 14 through November 18
November 14 through November 18
Monday - Athletes vs Mathletes—Google It...
Tuesday - Twin Day—you and a friend dress like twins
Wednesday - Chapel Ware
Thursday - Throwback Day—dress like people from days
gone by...60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s...
Friday - PJ Day & D.E.A.R. Day— you may wear PJs and please wear appropriate shoes. It is also Drop Everything and Read Day—bring your favorite book and a blanket to read and be comfy in.
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone: 707.451.6683
Preschool Email: preschool@gobethany.com
(TK-8) Email: myschool@gobethany.com
Saturday, November 12, 2022
Pie Distribution—Wed. November 16
PLEASE MAKE YOUR ARRANGEMENTS
We cannot store your pies
We are planning on distributing pies from 2:35pm – 6pm
Each year this is a HUGE LOGISTICAL UNDERTAKING and we ask for your
Patience and Grace as our volunteers will be here to help you.
*Between 2:35pm – 3:00pm – DO NOT USE THE CARPOOL LANE FOR PIE
PICK UP. Please leave this window of time for our regular student pick up. Park
your car in the lot and come get your pies during this window.
*Please – if you have a wagon, bring it to help you with your pie order. Many families
have a lot of pies to pick up so planning is key.
Thank you and enjoy your wonderful pies!
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone: 707.451.6683
Preschool Email: preschool@gobethany.com
(TK-8) Email: myschool@gobethany.com
Wednesday, November 9, 2022
Lutherans respond to Hurricane Ian in Florida
Watch how Lutherans from around the country are working out of Venice and Fort Myers, Fla., to reflect Christ's love by providing resources and aid to those impacted by Hurricane Ian.
"It was absolute devastation, probably one of the two worst hurricanes in the last decade," says the Rev. Dr. Ross Johnson, director of LCMS Disaster Response. "What we're seeing is Lutherans responding in love in the name of Christ to people that are hurting, to communities that are hurting."
Sunday, November 6, 2022
Hope for the Future
For the last seven years, Erick Davis Kwoba has been able to attend primary and secondary school thanks to a unique collaboration between The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya (ELCK). The two church bodies work together on Project 24, a series of eight boarding facilities throughout Kenya that care for about 200 children who come from difficult family situations. Staff also remain in contact with another 163 students who have graduated from primary school, moved out of their Project 24 site, and now live and study at one of Kenya’s many residential secondary schools.
While in the Project 24 program, the children attend a local school and are fed, cared for, and taught important life skills such as how to tend to the site’s crops and livestock. Most importantly, the children learn about their Savior, Jesus Christ.
Read more, here.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Thursday, November 3, 2022
Walking Side by Side in Christ
“Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving” (Col. 2:6–7).
Every day, the Rev. Alexandre Manoel da Costa shares the Good News on Perfect Love Street in Bauru, São Paolo, Brazil. Da Costa, who has been a pastor for 27 years in the Igreja Evangélica Luterana do Brasil (Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brazil, or IELB), preaches, teaches and gives God’s flock His gifts. He thanks The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) for sending missionaries to his country in 1900 — leading to the eventual formation of the IELB. Thanks to this work, he was able to hear about Jesus from a pastor evangelizing his indigenous tribe decades later.
“There are so many things to say,” Da Costa said on why he loves being a pastor, “but I will say only this: I want to [work] with the people who don’t know Jesus, like I did not know Him, that they come to know Jesus. … This church has given me Jesus, a wife, a family and a vocation.”
Da Costa was one of 528 pastors and 443 laypeople at the IELB’s 63rd National Convention, held in June in the coastal city of Gaurapari, in the state of EspÃrito Santo.
When he was merely 4 years old, the Rev. Airton Scheunemann Schroeder, IELB vice-president for mercy ministry, told his parents that he wanted to be a pastor when he grew up. He fondly remembers how pastors visited his grandmother when she was bedridden. He watched while they cared for her and showed her the love of Christ.
Read more, here.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Monday, October 31, 2022
Daily Chapel at the International Center, St. Louis, MO
Preacher
Rev. Sean Daenzer
Liturgy
Matins
LSB p. 219
Hymn
Walther’s Hymnal 291, “Blessed is the Man that Never Doth in Godless Counsel Meet”
Friday, October 28, 2022
Fostering a Lutheran Identity in Latin America
On May 27, three pastors and 12 deaconesses graduated from Centro de Misericordia y Seminario Concordia el Reformador (Concordia the Reformer Seminary and Mercy Center) in Palmar Arriba, Dominican Republic (DR). The graduates will serve the church throughout Latin America as they head to Peru, Chile, Mexico, Panama, Guatemala, Venezuela and other nations.
“God takes you in many ways. … I never thought I would be a pastor. But God led me here out of my country to learn the truth so that I can return to my home country to tell them the truth,” said the Rev. Jeancarlos RamÃrez, who graduated from Concordia after four years of residential education. RamÃrez, who will serve the church in his native city of Lima, Peru, especially looks forward to bringing the Gospel to children and families. “Everything you learn in seminary — it’s important to think about how to communicate that to kids, to people who don’t know. … [We] don’t change the truth but learn how to share it with kids so that they can understand.”
Read more, here.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Wish to be a Member?
To become a member of Bethany Lutheran Church you will need to:
Attend the FAITH FOUNDATION classes which can be scheduled through the church office bethanychurch@gobethany.com
Complete an APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP
Commit to be a faithful member through regular worship, study of God’s Word, daily prayer, and giving of your time, talents, and God-given resources (finances).
Commit your life to God in serving Him and loving one another as God has loved you.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Saturday, October 22, 2022
"A Fixed Mindset, Unfixed" - October 2, 2022 Worship Service
Join us onsite for worship Sunday Worship Service - October 2, 2022
Note our new church service and bible study times:
10 am -Adult Bible Study Ulatis Campus
11 am - Ulatis Campus inside and drive-in Worship Service
Pastor - Phil Pledger
Bethany School Principal/Vicar - Dr. Chris Smith
Pianist/Organist - Libby Skinner
Live Stream Videographer - Kyle Dykes
Sound - Katy Green
Projectionist - Jim Witt
Projection Design - Amanda Rudeen
Wednesday, October 19, 2022
Our church is a sacramental church
We teach and practice two sacraments, or sacred acts: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. In the Lutheran church these, along with God’s Word, are called “Means of Grace.” In other words, the Word, Baptism, and the Lord’s Supper are “vehicles” or means of God giving his grace to his people.
- We believe that baptism is first and foremost God’s work, where he forgives sins, rescues from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe this. See Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:16; 1 Peter 3:20-21; Titus 3:5-7; Acts 2:38 etc. Because the Bible teaches that Baptism begins with God’s action of grace, we baptize children and infants as well as adults.
- We believe that in the Lord’s Supper, along with the bread and wine, the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ is actually given and received by those who eat and drink. Jesus himself declares, “This is my body…This is my blood.” See Matthew 26:26-28. The Bible teaches also that our sins are forgiven, for Jesus says in Matthew 26:28, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Because 1 Corinthians 11:28 says that we are to examine ourselves before we eat and drink, a period of instruction is appropriate before communing at the altar.
Sunday, October 16, 2022
Lutherans still hold to Luther’s theological teaching of Grace alone, Faith alone, Scripture alone.
- Grace Alone. The Bible teaches that we are saved from sin, death, and everlasting condemnation only by God’s grace, his undeserved favor toward us. Human beings cannot earn their way to heaven. God, in his rich mercy, wants us to have eternal life with Him. See Ephesians 2:8-10.
- Faith Alone. Faith is the only way which we can receive God’s gifts of grace. Faith is trusting in Jesus Christ alone for eternal life, and is a creation not of man, but of God. 1 Corinthians 12:3 says, “No one can say Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.” Faith is created and sustained by God working through his Word, through Baptism, and through the Lord’s Supper.
- Scripture Alone. The writings of the Old and New Testaments of the Bible are the only rule and norm by which all doctrines and teachers are measured and judged (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Thursday, October 13, 2022
Multiply Your Ministry - October 9, 2022 Worship Service
Join us onsite for worship Sunday Worship Service - October 9, 2022
Note our new church service and bible study times:
10 am -Adult Bible Study Ulatis Campus
11 am - Ulatis Campus inside and drive-in Worship Service
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Pastor - Phil Pledger
Bethany School Principal/Vicar - Dr. Chris Smith
Pianist/Organist - Libby Skinner
Live Stream Videographer - Kyle Dykes
Sound - Keith Kondo
Projectionist - Rose Kondo
Projection Design - Amanda Rudeen
Monday, October 10, 2022
Bethany Lutheran Church is a Christian church, part of the worldwide Christian Church
- We believe that there is only one true God, who reveals himself in the Bible as being three persons in one God– the Father, who created and sustains the world; the Son, who became and lived as a man, died, rose from the dead and returned to heaven, taking up again His full glory and power; and the Holy Spirit, who brings people to faith in Jesus Christ and imparts to them the blessings of faith. Each is fully God, and yet there is only one God, not three.
- We believe that the Bible is the Word of God, spoken through human authors. It is trustworthy and without error. Its main message is the gift of eternal life found in Jesus, the only Son of God.
- We believe that all people are born in sin (original sin) and that we sin against God everyday and are in need of His forgiveness.
- We believe that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior and that He is true God and true man and that He died on the cross to atone for the sins of all mankind. But the Good News is that Jesus rose from the dead on the third day and opened the gates of heaven to all who believe in Him.
- We believe that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ even though there is no merit or worthiness in us.
Bethany Lutheran Church is also a fellowship of Lutheran Christians. We are affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, a Biblically conservative church body. The LC-MS is called a “confessional” church body because we publicly confess our faith. We believe that the three ecumenical creeds are faithful declarations of the Christian faith. These include the Apostles’ Creed, the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed.
Our congregation is called “Lutheran” because we follow the Bible based teachings of Martin Luther, which were the driving force for the Reformation of the Church in the 16th century. God used Luther to proclaim again the Biblical truth that in Jesus Christ, God is loving and merciful. Forgiveness and eternal life are gifts that God wants to give people through faith in Jesus. During the time of the Reformation, much of the church was reformed and revitalized and brought back to its Biblical roots. The teachings of the Lutherans were gathered together in the Book of Concord of 1580, and are used as a confession of faith by our church body.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Friday, October 7, 2022
11th Annual Apple Hill Pie Fundraiser
Bethany Lutheran School is proud to offer our 11th Annual Apple Pie Sale featuring pies from High Hill Ranch in Apple Hill. These delicious pies are frozen so they can be enjoyed whenever you are ready to serve them! They make wonderful hostess gifts and are a fantastic addition to any holiday table. (If you want to take credit for making them, we promise not to tell!!!) All orders and payments must be turned in to your teacher or the school office by Wednesday, October 19.
Payment options: Checks made out to Bethany Lutheran School or CASH.
You must pick up your pies on Wednesday, November 16. We will not be able to store the pies at school. Please plan accordingly. Pick up location and times are:
3pm—6pm in the Fellowship Hall
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone: 707.451.6683
Preschool Email: preschool@gobethany.com
(TK-8) Email: myschool@gobethany.com
Tuesday, October 4, 2022
Saturday, October 1, 2022
Church
SUNDAY
• 10:00am Adult Bible Study
Facilitator: Church Elders
Location: Ulatis Campus
• Women's Study
Facilitator: Terri Denton
Location: Private Residence – Call church office for more information 451-6675
• Children
Sunday School for all ages
Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Reminders...
Label everything your child brings to school with a permanent marker. Many items look the same or similar and this will allow us to return items that are misplaced or left behind by your student. If you purchased items from our used closet, please mark out the previous name and write your student’s name. Otherwise, it might get returned to the used closet. Leaving Campus—BLS students are not allowed to leave campus without an adult, unless we have a parent’s written authorization on file in the school office. Students who wish to walk or ride their bikes home or walk across to the library must have a note from parents on file giving permission to do so.
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone: 707.451.6683
Preschool Email: preschool@gobethany.com
(TK-8) Email: myschool@gobethany.com
Sunday, September 25, 2022
220513 May Life Together Digest YouTube
In this Life Together Digest, the Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS), wishes the Synod a happy 175th birthday.
"This April we celebrated 175 years since our founding in Chicago, about a dozen congregations and a handful of pastors. And how the Lord has blessed us all these many, many years," said Harrison.
On April 26, a Service of Thanksgiving was held at the LCMS International Center in recognition of the 175th anniversary of the Synod's founding. Harrison points to a recording of this service at thelc.ms/175-chapel, and also directs viewers to other recent resources in Reporter and The Lutheran Witness, and the new podcast "5 Minutes with a Missionary" from KFUO.
Thursday, September 22, 2022
School Attendance
The school requests that parents call the office by 8:30am each day a student is absent. Otherwise, the
school office staff will make reasonable attempts, through phone calls, to inform parents of absenteeism.
Failure to contact the school office to report an absence will result in an unexcused absence.
Tardiness—A student is tardy if he/she is not ready to begin the day at 8am. Students who are tardy must be signed in at the school office by a parent or guardian BEFORE proceeding to the classroom. Not signed in in this manner will be marked absent. Tardiness will be marked excused for doctor’s appointments, traffic accidents, car trouble or unavoidable circumstances such as major traffic problems en route to school. Unexcused tardiness includes sleeping in late, child not able to find shoes, parent’s running behind, etc.
Absences— Absences are defined as:
A. personal illness
B. appointments with a medical professional which cannot be scheduled to occur after school
C. serious family illness or a death in the family
D. suspension from school (See Part 3, K. Suspensions in the Student Handbook)
E. other causes for which written notification was given by the parent prior to the absence,
and/or truancy.
*A child who misses more than three (3) days of school due to illness must provide a doctor’s excuse upon
their return. An unexcused absence may be given to a student who has been suspended, is truant, and/or has not met the excused absence criteria.
Extended Absences— An independent study form will need to be filled in and turned into the office at least 3 days before the planned absence. Parents are also responsible for initiating contact with the teacher in a timely manner regarding extended absences. A copy of the Independent Study Contract will be kept in the student’s file. Independent Study Work is expected to be completed upon the return to school. Any incomplete work, upon the teacher’s discretion, can be marked down and not accepted late. The principal reserves the right to deny permission to categorize the absences as excused, specifically for academic and/or spiritual concerns.
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone: 707.451.6683
Preschool Email: preschool@gobethany.com
(TK-8) Email: myschool@gobethany.com
Monday, September 19, 2022
OFFICE OF THE KEYS/CONFESSION — SEPTEMBER 16–30
OFFICE OF THE KEYS/CONFESSION — SEPTEMBER 16–30
Jesus gave the office of the keys to the Church through His Apostles. Confession
has two parts. First that we confess our sins, and second that we receive the
forgiveness of our sins.
Rejoice in the gifts of Confession and Absolution as you pray:
16. That God would lead all sinners to repentance.
17. Confess your sins before God. Trust that God forgives your sins through Christ Jesus.
18. Thank God for your pastor and all pastors. Pray that God would grant them faith and strength in their Word and Sacrament ministry.
19. Thank God for corporate confession and absolution each Sunday.
20. Thank God for the opportunity for individual confession and absolution with your pastor.
21. Thank God for the vocations He has given to you. Pray that you serve Him and your neighbor faithfully each day.
22. Pray for all unbelievers, that they would repent and trust in Christ.
23. Pray for all who are caught in unrepentant sin, that they would humbly confess their sins and receive holy Absolution.
24. Pray for the Spirit to empower you to amend your sinful life, that all you think, say and do would please God.
25. Thank God for the Church. Pray that the Church remain faithful to the preaching and teaching of God’s Word and the administration of the Sacraments according to God's will.
26. Pray for those who have stopped attending church. Ask God to provide someone to share Christ with them and bring them back.
27. Pray for Christian parents, that they would model forgiveness and raise their children in the Christian faith.
28. Pray for the strength to forgive people in your life. Ask God to give the faith necessary to forgive as He forgives.
29. Thank God that He always answers our confession with words of forgiveness and life.
30. Pray that Jesus would return quickly, that sin and death will soon be finally defeated, and God’s people will dwell with Him forever.
17. Confess your sins before God. Trust that God forgives your sins through Christ Jesus.
18. Thank God for your pastor and all pastors. Pray that God would grant them faith and strength in their Word and Sacrament ministry.
19. Thank God for corporate confession and absolution each Sunday.
20. Thank God for the opportunity for individual confession and absolution with your pastor.
21. Thank God for the vocations He has given to you. Pray that you serve Him and your neighbor faithfully each day.
22. Pray for all unbelievers, that they would repent and trust in Christ.
23. Pray for all who are caught in unrepentant sin, that they would humbly confess their sins and receive holy Absolution.
24. Pray for the Spirit to empower you to amend your sinful life, that all you think, say and do would please God.
25. Thank God for the Church. Pray that the Church remain faithful to the preaching and teaching of God’s Word and the administration of the Sacraments according to God's will.
26. Pray for those who have stopped attending church. Ask God to provide someone to share Christ with them and bring them back.
27. Pray for Christian parents, that they would model forgiveness and raise their children in the Christian faith.
28. Pray for the strength to forgive people in your life. Ask God to give the faith necessary to forgive as He forgives.
29. Thank God that He always answers our confession with words of forgiveness and life.
30. Pray that Jesus would return quickly, that sin and death will soon be finally defeated, and God’s people will dwell with Him forever.
Friday, September 16, 2022
What School Lunch Looks Like Around The World
Lunch time at school can be one of the best parts of a kid's day. From aloo gosht in Pakistan to sausage rolls in Australia and smoky, tomato-y jollof rice in Nigeria, we’re taking a look at what kids around the world eat for lunch.
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone: 707.451.6683
Preschool Email: preschool@gobethany.com
(TK-8) Email: myschool@gobethany.com
Tuesday, September 13, 2022
DON'T FORGET ... School Picture Day—Dorian Studios : Wednesday, September 14th
Wednesday, September 14
Chapel Clothes
*The ordering of photos is an online process. You will be getting more information in the coming weeks.
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone: 707.451.6683
Preschool Email: preschool@gobethany.com
(TK-8) Email: myschool@gobethany.com
Saturday, September 10, 2022
Bible Study: A Visit to Narnia
This four-part Bible study takes us to the world of C.S. Lewis’s Narnia, and looks at Edmund’s story of redemption and how it relates to our own.
Topics: Forgiveness, God’s Love, Identity, Salvation
Download a PDF of the Bible Study: A Visit to Narnia.
About This Study
In C. S. Lewis’s classic children’s book, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, World War II is raging, and London is oppressed by air-raids. Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy Pevensie are sent to the country for safety, to the home of an old professor who has more rooms than people to fill them. One day while exploring the house, Lucy, the youngest Pevensie, discovers a room with a large wardrobe in it. She steps inside it to see what secrets it might hold and discovers the greatest secret of all. The wardrobe is a door to another world, Narnia, where animals talk and live side-by-side with fairy tale creatures like fauns, centaurs, nymphs and dryads (as well as other, more horrible, creatures). But Narnia has been under the rule of the evil White Witch for a hundred years, and she has made it so that it is always winter but never Christmas. The Pevensies’ arrival in Narnia is the answer to an old prophecy that states that when two sons of Adam and two daughters of Eve sit on the Narnian throne, the time of evil will end. Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy aren’t the only ones to arrive in Narnia at this time. Aslan, the great Lion, the King, the Lord of the whole wood, who has been absent from Narnia for longer than anyone can remember, has returned to Narnia, and means to set things right.
In this story, we are confronted with issues of good and evil, and with characters who remind us of ourselves in so many ways. While Edmund is often the least likable of the Pevensie children, it is his story of redemption that is most like ours, and it is his story we will examine most closely in this Bible Study series.
Ways to Use This Study
This study is best used as a series over a few weeks, at a retreat or on a trip with youth. Each part is designed to take about 20 to 30 minutes to complete. You can conclude the study with a viewing of the movie, but be sure to get the appropriate permissions so no copyright laws are violated!
Materials Needed
All you need is a copy of the book, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. Page numbers given in this study are from the HarperCollins 2005 edition of the book, but first and last sentences are quoted so that you can use any copy of the book.
Part One: Turkish Delight
The character of Edmund in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, by C. S. Lewis, represents us in many ways. In this part of the story he is led astray by the White Witch. We face similar tactics and temptations from Satan. Students will discuss the lies Satan uses against us. They will also hear that God is more powerful than Satan and know that by faith we share in His victory over Satan.
Part Two: Who’s Afraid of Aslan?
We can relate to Edmund’s insecurity. We have a need for an identity as people who are loved by God. In this study, students will discuss how they react to insecurities, and they will be reminded of the value and identity they have in Christ.
Part Three: It Will Be Harder Than You Think
There are times when we lose sight of the cost of forgiveness. Aslan hints at this cost in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Students will be reminded of the extent to which God went in order to win them back from sin. They will be reminded of the extent of God’s love for them.
Part Four: What Lucy and Susan Saw
In The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe Aslan gives his life for the sake of Edmund. This is a picture of Christ, who gave His life for our sake. Students will understand that Jesus was really dead and is truly alive. He suffered in this way because of the great love He has for each of us.
See more, here.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Wednesday, September 7, 2022
Learn Martin Luther's 'Simple Way to Pray'
The Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, president of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, explains Martin Luther's ITCP method of prayer, which features four steps: instruction, thanksgiving, confession and prayer. Harrison also recommends "A Simple Way to Pray," which Luther penned in 1535 after his barber and friend, Peter Beskendorf, asked for some practical guidance on how to pray. "Luther's little book on prayer will revolutionize your prayer life," said Harrison.
Sunday, September 4, 2022
Memory Verse: Ephesians 3:20–21
Thursday, September 1, 2022
Pray For Us Calendar - September 1-15th
THE CREED — SEPTEMBER 1–15
We confess the three ecumenical Creeds, the Apostles’, Nicene and Athanasian.
We believe in the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, one God, three persons. Luther’s
explanation of the Apostles’ Creed in the Small Catechism teaches important
truths about God as our creator, redeemer and sanctifier
Rejoice in God’s goodness in Christ as you pray:
- Thank God that He is our loving heavenly Father.
- Thank God for His creation.
- Thank God for daily bread. Pray that all would be fed and clothed this day.
- Thank God for family. Pray that God would guide all families love each other with the love of God in Christ Jesus.
- Thank God for shelter. Pray for those who are without homes this day.
- Thank God for reason. Pray that learning and intellect are always in service of God’s Kingdom.
- Thank God for Jesus. He is our only Savior from sin, death and the power of the devil.
- Rejoice that Jesus is true man, that He can sympathize with our weaknesses.
- Rejoice that Jesus is true God, that our Savior is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
- Repent of all your sins and trust that God forgives your sins through the blood of Jesus.
- Pray that God would empower you, by His Spirit, to live in righteousness, innocence and blessedness.
- Thank God that He freely gives faith and salvation through His Spirit. Pray that all would hear the Word and be Baptized according to His will.
- Thank God for the Holy Spirit. Pray that He would keep all in the true faith.
- Thank God for the Church. Pray that she would remain faithful to her Savior.
- Rejoice that God gives and sustains faith in the Holy Trinity. Rejoice that God is love.
Monday, August 29, 2022
LUNCH IDEAS FOR KIDS » vegan + healthy (bento box)
RECIPES
🌱 Best ever vegan Nutella: here
🌱 One-bowl PB & chocolate oatmeal cookies: here
🌱 Chewy no-bake PB & chocolate oat bars: here
🌱 Easy berry chia seed jam: here
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA 95687
Phone: 707.451.6683
Preschool Email: preschool@gobethany.com
(TK-8) Email: myschool@gobethany.com
Friday, August 26, 2022
Tuesday, August 23, 2022
Staff Highlight : Mrs. Paula Rush
Administrative Assistant
(707) 451-6683
I have been serving at Bethany Lutheran Ministries since 2009. I’ve served as the Senior Pastor’s Administrative Assistant for 9 years and in 2017 I began serving at the TK-8 Grade Ulatis Campus as the Principal’s Administrative Assistant.
Before coming to Bethany I worked in logistical operations for the Human Resource Department of a private contractor for the US Air Force. I’ve also been a licensed Court Reporter for the State of California.
Both my husband and I have lived in Vacaville since our early teens when Vacaville was nothing but peach orchards, cows and onions. We chose to raise our own children here where they walked the same hallways that we did in school.
There is nothing I enjoy more than to spend time with my family and to play with my little Maltipoo and Chiweenie – AND a good cup of coffee.
Exciting things happening in the Rush family! – I will become a Grandma for the first time!
Saturday, August 20, 2022
Quick Healthy Lunchbox Ideas for kids | Healthy snacks for kids at school
In today's video I'm sharing 3 quick and Healthy lunchbox ideas for school. These are all super easy lunchbox ideas for kids for back to school lunchboxes that my kids LOVE. If you're after healthy snacks for kids at school you'll also love the ideas and healthy recipes in this video.
Wednesday, August 17, 2022
Staff Highlight : Dr. Chris E. Smith
Principal
I am and have always been very passionate about Christian education. For the past twenty plus years, I have been in the classroom, and administration within various Christian schools in California. Christian education provides wonderful opportunities for evangelism, nurtures personal relationships, connects Biblical and theological insights to life, and offers valuable training for discipleship. This opportunity affords our students a chance to grow and excel both academically and spiritually. Developing young Christian leaders provides our communities, and ultimately our country future leaders who are grounded morally, ethically, and spiritually.
For the past four years, I have dedicated my studies to understanding what leadership approaches are most effective in Christian schools through the doctoral program of Grand Canyon University. This program allowed me to really sharpen by servant leadership skills, develop an appreciation for curriculum development, and reignite my passion for the overall Christian movement in this country. I am so proud and honored to head BLS into the next chapter in their distinctive history. I look forward to bridging the gaps between our church and school, fostering a larger role in our surrounding communities, developing a more inclusive educational experience for the students which cultivates academics, athletics, and discipleship, and providing professional leadership which supports the wants and needs of our tremendous staff. I also look forward to getting to know our families and friends of BLS.
Sunday, August 14, 2022
Thursday, August 11, 2022
1 Peter 5 Exegesis August 7, 2022 Worship Service
Note our new church service and bible study times:
10 am -Adult Bible Study Ulatis Campus
11 am - Ulatis Campus inside and drive-in Worship Service
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Pastor - Phil Pledger
Bethany School Principal/Vicar - Dr. Chris Smith
Pianist/Organist - Libby Skinner
Live Stream Videographer - Katy Green
Sound - Keith Kondo
Projectionist - Rose Kondo
Projection Design - Amanda Rudeen
Service Coordinator - Jim Witt
Monday, August 8, 2022
Staff Highlight : Ms. Tina Padilla
Preschool Teacher
tina.padilla@gobethany.com
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Friday, August 5, 2022
Staff Highlight : Mrs. Cindy Miller
Preschool Teacher
cindy.miller@gobethany.com
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Tuesday, August 2, 2022
Saturday, July 30, 2022
Staff Highlight : Ms. Natalie Hart
I was blessed to join the Bethany Lutheran family in 2009 as a preschool teacher. In 2014 I became the preschool Administrative Assistant as well as teaching. In 2015 I added student billing to the job description. In 2016 I left the classroom and moved fully into the administrative assistant office for the preschool and billing. In 2018 I added Church Administrative Assistant where I have the joy of working with Pastor Pledger and the amazing congregation.
I grew up in Dixon, in a Christian household. Family is the most important thing in my life next to my relationship with our Lord. The best thing in my life is being an Auntie.
It is such a joy to come to work and see the way God is moving in this ministry and in the lives of the students at this school. I can't wait to see what amazing things are in store for Bethany in the future.
Wednesday, July 27, 2022
Sunday, July 24, 2022
The Tornado, the Earthquake, the Fire, and The Whisper.June 26, 2022 11:...
Streamed live on Jun 26, 2022 Sunday Worship Service - June 26, 2022
Note our new church service and bible study times:
10 am -Adult Bible Study Ulatis Campus
11 am - Ulatis Campus inside and drive-in Worship Service
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
Pastor - Phil Pledger
Bethany School Principal/Vicar - Dr. Chris Smith
Reader - Barbara Herman
Pianist/Organist - Phil Pledger
Live Stream Videographer - Katy Green
Sound - Jim Witt
Projectionist - Cindy Pledger
Projection Design - Amanda Rudeen
Service Coordinator - Jim Witt
Thursday, July 21, 2022
Monday, July 18, 2022
Resources : Bible Project
A New Way to Tell an Ancient Story
We are a crowdfunded project that produces media to help people everywhere experience the Bible as a unified story that leads to Jesus. Everything we make is available for free because of the generous support of people like you.
Our mission is to help people experience the Bible as a unified story that leads to Jesus.
Read more about us, here.
Bethany Lutheran Church
1011 Ulatis Drive
Vacaville, CA
(707) 451-6675
mychurch@gobethany.com
Website
Friday, July 15, 2022
EAT | Best Bedtime Snacks
If you feel like a vending machine at bedtime, it's time to curb the bedtime snack addiction. Here's what worked for me along with 5 great snacks that will help your kids sleep great at night!
Tuesday, July 12, 2022
Resources : Family Shield Ministries
The Vision
We are Christians who care about families and the Gospel, transforming lives now and for eternity.
The Mission
We care about families growing in Christ; and equip them to witness to each other and to the world.
by Helping families grow in Christ
by Equipping families to witness for Christ
by Witnessing to families who don't know Christ
Family Shield Ministries, founded in 1994, is an independent and self-supporting Recognized Service Organization of The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod. The name is based on Eph. 6:16Open in Logos Bible Software (if available) that says, "Take up the shield of faith." The mission: We care about families growing in Christ; and equip them to witness to each other and to the world. Strategic objectives include: 1) To share the Gospel with those who do not know Christ; 2) To equip Christians to apply faith to life, grow in the knowledge of God's Word, and use their gifts to serve in the home, church, and community; 3) To connect people with needs to resources; 4) To develop partnerships and collaborations; and 5) To help individuals and families implement the six traits of healthy families.
Educational and evangelism services include: the Family Shield radio program that is broadcast on over 50 radio stations throughout the United States, seminars and workshops, the counter-cult ministry (equipping Christian family members and friends of those involved in cults like Jehovah's Witnesses and Mormons), and promoting and producing resources. One resource is: Witnessing - A Lifestyle. This book helps Christian learn how to share their faith with family members and friends in a non-threatening way. Another book is "Mission Field on Our Doorstep: Jehovah's Witnesses."
Visit us, here.
Saturday, July 9, 2022
Resources : Creative Communications
Creative church goods are more than paper. They are tools for pastors, teachers and ministry leaders to use to captivate the attention, spark a conversation and send home a visual reminder of biblical truths. These printed materials share the written Word through engaging activities and a shared experience.
Perfectly affordable to add to a mailing, use these engaging resources as small gifts for staff, volunteers, teacher gifts for kids; or use these visual Gospel reminders to send home after service or to highlight the salvation message in a children’s message.
Visit, here.
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