Bethlehem Connect May 2017 | Page 7

children, Youth & Family The 5th & 6th grade (Pre-Confirmation) Sunday School class met with their parent/s to learn about Martin Luther in a “Family Sunday School” class. Through our learning and discovering of Martin Luther, we all answered two “Luther-like” questions. First, we posted our own “Theses” (Announcements for discussion) on the classroom door. We have a theologically interesting list of 44 theses statements. Secondly, as Martin Luther was a reformer, we listed ideas of reform of our own faith community. This is a fascinating list of 79 ideas of reformation. Find a 5th or 6th grader and ask about their lists. They have unique and faith-filled ideas. 4th grade Family Sunday School April 30 & May 7 (During Sunday School) We will explore The Apostles' Creed, talk about what we believe and learn how to confess our faith. This class is with the 4th graders and their parent/s or special adult. The following Sunday May 14, the 4th graders will lead the Apostles' Creed in Worship. First Communion Classes for All Ages (First grade have First Communion classes in Fall) Saturday, May 6 – 9:30 am – Noon Students with their parent/special adult will gather to learn about receiving Communion. The meal of Holy Communion is a gift of God, dependent not on how mature or perceptive we are, but on God’s grace. Sign up online and pick up a "First Communion" folder at one of the Sunday School hospitality desks. Are you thinking about summer? Have you seen it? Have you smiled with all the choices and possibilities of camps this summer? Vacation Bible School (3 weeks!), Bible Camps, sailing and canoe adventure dates and registrations ready for your enjoyment and summer planning. Pick up a brochure or check out our website. Register online now to save your spot. End of Program Year MTKA- MAY 21 May 21 will be our last Sunday School class until fall. We will have a “chicken party” and thank our wonderful volunteer teachers. Fellowship coffee time We will gather to thank the Minneapolis families who have spent a program year with us. MPLS- JUNE 4 Pentecost Chicken party! May noisy offering emphasis: All of our Sunday School noisy (and quiet) offering will go to buying CHICKENS! ($1 per chicken) through ELCA Good Gifts. Within months of birth, chickens are already laying eggs. With an ongoing supply of protein-rich meals and eggs to sell at the market, this gift is a great leap forward for a family struggling with hunger and poverty. As part of our i ntensive study of immigration in 2017, two trips of youth and young adults will be traveling to the San Diego/Tijuana border to meet with peacemakers in both countries. It has been a great spring of studying immigration and hearing from immigrants and advocates. This summer, travelers will get a tour by the border control in San Diego and hear traveler stories at the Tijuana migrant center and see some of the issues first hand at the border. Then the fall will center on taking our new knowledge and applying it to our Minneapolis context as we follow Jesus by becoming everyday peacemakers. Prayers and support are appreciated! Amnicon White Water Canoe Trips July 23-28 (7th-8th grade) July 30-August 4 (9th-12th grade) Flambeau River, Wisconsin Amnicon Canoe trips center around experiencing God through nature and teambuilding. They celebrate BYM’s commitment to helping youth foster friendships and form faith. After camping under the stars, canoeing down rapids and spending a few days at Camp Amnicon, youth come home brimming with the wonder of God’s good creation and feeling deeply connected to their church friends. Check out our opportunities to volunteer with VBS, go to Green Lake Bible Camp, and sail the Apostle Islands. Register online today! Looking Forward Last Day of Confirmation- May 3 Cinnamon Rolls Fundraiser- May 13-14 Speaker Series- May 21 Blessing Graduates- June 4 7