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

September 2026

• The Bethel Lutheran Church congregation has had a strong fiscal year. Thank you for your  generosity to the Bethel Annual Fund and the Building Mortgage Reduction Fund.  

• On July 29th, Bethel made the last payment of our $5.7 million mortgage. We will celebrate this milestone with a celebration on November 14 and 15.  

• In September and October, there will be Mission Minutes regarding:  

     - The new ”Built to Serve” program  

     -The Endowment Program  

     -The Annual Fund/Budget for 2027

Generosity (Financial Updates) - As of August 31, 2026

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