February 2010

A Reconciling in Christ Congregation 
Bethlehem's Church Council unanimously voted to become a Reconciling in Christ congregation.  People of all sexual orientations and gender identities are welcome within the membership of this congregation and are encouraged to share in the sacramental and general life of this Christian family.  Being a Reconciling in Christ congregation is an affirmative step taken when we joined 400 other congregations around the nation in making the statement that all, are truly welcome here.  For more information please go to Lutherans Concerned / North America's Reconciling in Christ program at www.lcna.org/ric.

Bethlehem Featured in New York Daily News
In the March 26th edition of the New York Daily News, Bethelehm Lutheran Church was selected for their Faith in the City feature.  

In the nearly one-full page article, Pastor Paul commented on what he thought was Bethlehem's most prized possession: "We have ministry taking place seven days a week, thanks to the really good group of people at our church, our school and our senior center."

"We are a family-oriented congregation which is large enough to get a lot done yet small enough so that everyone knows one another," Knudsen said.

April 2005

Bethlehem's 100th Anniversary
Our Anniversary was all that we had hoped for -- a meaningful worship service, a celebration, a reunion, and more. 

Our 10:30 service on April 24th with Bishop Stephen Bouman, Pastor Paul Knudsen, Rev. Russell Norris and Rev. Phyllis Haynes was both inspirational and joyful, with music by our special 100th Anniversary Choir.

The dinner that followed was a good time, as more than 200 met, mingled and caught up on old times.  Pastor Paul presented several members of theBethlehem family awards for their service or their humor.  And, we were presented by an oil painting by Ellen Fjermedal of our church.  State Senator Martin Golden and City Councilman Vincent Gentile stopped by and letters from President Bush, Mayor Bloomberg, and Pastors Helmers and Lunn were read.

Novebmer 2004

Pastor Paul Celebrates 20th Anniversary
Rev. Paul Knudsen celebrated his 20th anniversary as an ordained minister at Bethlehem's Sunday service on November 14th.  The service included a presentation by Church Council president, Lillian Hansen, and was followed by a luncheon in his honor.