From the Pastoral perspective:

Dear People of God!

“Grace to you and peace from God, our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ” - special words for God’s people of all times and places. These are words first spoken by St. Paul as he writes and greets the church in Rome. These are words for us, the people of Bethlehem, as we strive to be the community of faith and ministry that God has called us to be. These are words that are followed immediately in St. Paul’s letter to Rome by his giving thanks to God for them, for their faith and for their presence in Rome.

So, I also give thanks to God for you and your love and support as we seek together to be God’s people of faith and ministry in Traverse City.

It has been a little over one year since I accepted the position of Interim Pastor here at Bethlehem. Both Mary Lou and I continue to be honored and thankful to be here among you serving and worshipping and being part of this special and historic community of God’s people in Traverse City.

I believe that much has been accomplished in this past year in restoring the health and stability of this community of faith. It is my sense that people generally feel proud to be a part of Bethlehem and eager to bring new life and vitality to both the worshipping community that feeds our faith and the community of ministry and outreach that God calls us to be. The reports of all the committees that are included in this Annual Report of the work of Bethlehem are evidence of this. Please take the time to read through them and ask yourself where God is calling you to be part of the ministry of this community.

We are certainly in a healthier position than we were at this time last year. Our Educational ministry under the leadership of Suzanne Lehto has made great strides in new enthusiasm for all ages. Many thanks go to all the teachers and helpers who have worked to rebuild this vital part of our congregation. Our average worship attendance has greatly improved this past year and our financial stewardship is on a much firmer foundation. The new “Welcome Table” that is in the process of being staffed for all of our services is a much appreciated step toward welcoming and integrating visitors to our worship services.

I also believe that there is still much that we can accomplish together in this coming year – particularly in the areas of Evangelism and Outreach ministry, and in our Financial Stewardship and our Ministry Stewardship efforts. I recently signed a second contract for another year of working together in ministry through April 30, 2010. I also noted in a newsletter article this past April that it is my hope that our Council can begin the self-study process that is required by our Synod early next year and that a Call Committee can be formed and the Call process begun following that. I have made a commitment to remain here as your Pastor until that process is completed and a pastor has accepted your call to serve here at Bethlehem and is able to begin work among us (however long that process takes).

Again, thank you for your prayers and your love. We have been blessed to be able to be a part of your ministry and worship life here at Bethlehem. Please feel free to call me if you have any questions or responses to this report. God’s continued blessings in ministry and fellowship to each of you.

Rev. Daniel Deutsch, Interim Pastor

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