We're Glad you Asked!

A Financial and Ministry Update from the Church Council

Updates -

Ministry -

Updates -

Ministry -

We’re Glad You’re Here

Thank You For Your Interest in Bethel!

Our Church Council has prepared this “We're Glad You Asked” page to help inform members of the progress we are making on our financial goals for the year and our ministry milestones.

Often people ask, “How is Bethel doing these days?” and leadership would like to take time to let you know what is happening financially and missionally as a congregation.

We have much to celebrate and also good challenges ahead!

Financial Update

August 2025

Dear Bethel Members,

We come to you today with mostly good news! The church council and other volunteers continue to help navigate the needs of the church and the available financial resources. As many of you are aware, Bethel has recently experienced some relief from the significant increase (400%) in insurance premiums experienced last year. For the next 12 months (July to July), the premiums have been reduced by $25,493. Working with our Insurance Agent, Bethel has also been able to reduce premiums, improve coverage, and reduce the deductibles. That's good news!

There is another effort underway to reduce utility costs (more details when they become available). Year to date, the natural gas expense has been lower than planned, but the electricity and water have been higher than planned to result in a savings of approximately $900 as of the end of July.

The South parking lot curbs have been repaired, the lot was resurfaced, and striped and the West lot - across 3rd. Ave. - has had numerous cracks filled. The parking lots have been closely monitored over the past few years and were in dire need of repair. The Parking Lot project was funded by a member's significant gift to enable the future of Bethel. Also, thanks to Nick, the Property Supervisor, and the Properties team, the work has been completed with a savings of $5,000 less than the projected costs. In addition, Nick worked with the Properties Team to identify and purchase a used mechanical lift for Bethel to maintain areas that could not be reached safely on a ladder. This need has been in discussion for many years, and because of a member's special gift and funds from Bethel's endowment, a used lift could be purchased. Both projects are great news!

Several trends have been identified in regard to financial, congregational support: There is an encouraging uptick in the use of electronic giving, i.e.. Venmo and direct deposit/Simply Giving. In addition, other members have increased their one-time gifts during the summer months, a time when financial support has dipped in the past. Any way you choose to give to the mission of Bethel is greatly appreciated! Another very positive pattern is the strong financial commitment from younger families. These engaged adults are forming the nucleus for a strong, vibrant future for Bethel Lutheran Church.......and that's the best news of all!

Your Questions Answered

Have a Question? Check the Answer!

Bethel’s Properties Team and staff have been working on a plan to convert the sanctuary to LED bulbs for many years to improve lighting and energy efficiency. The two main obstacles to this project were cost ($87,000) and technology.

Until recently LED lighting was not compatible with our computer system and the need to dim the many recessed cans and the “globe” chandeliers required for the varied performances. With advanced LED technology, computer control enhancements, and months of testing, the project was ready to go… but what about the money?

Answering our prayers, two Bethel families stepped forward with financial gifts totaling $30,000 designated for the sanctuary lighting project. With over $7,000 in Rochester Public Utilities rebates available for LED conversion and more than twenty lights noticeably out on the ceiling, it was (past) time to move.

The key determining factors to proceed were as follows:

• Improved efficiency leading to long-term cost saving (energy reduction of 50% based on the months since completion).

• Significantly longer life-span which minimizes the safety risk, labor and cost of renting a scissor lift ($600-800) each time light bulbs need replacing.

• Financial support from benefactors.

• Enhanced LED technology provides brighter, crisper lighting for future events for generations to come.

 

David J. Brandt

Properties Team Member

Church Council