Welcome! 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!
Update About Our Bethel Church President
-May 27, 2025-
Dear Bethel Congregation and Staff,
It is with great enthusiasm that I return to the Church Council as Interim Church President. Adding to my excitement is that I will be rejoining many council members that represent young families – a demographic that bodes well for the future of the Church.
As we move into the summer months, there are several key issues that bear bringing to your attention:
1. Bethel’s income slows slightly during the summer. To avoid playing “catch-up” this fall, please prioritize your offering/financial gifts. Venmo has become a popular means for many wanting to make special gifts when experiencing life’s blessings.
2. A task force has been formed to aid in the transition from Bethel’s mortgage (will be paid off in less than 2 years) to a building fund that will cover major building expenses. This group of remarkable people is working on plans to fund projects, i.e. a new roof $500,000-$700,000, boiler $65,000, etc. Each member of this multi-disciplinary team brings incredible skill sets to the table. Please be attentive to updates as they become available.
3. There has been some interest in publishing brief (but important) financial information to keep Bethel members up to date. Providing such data enhances the goal of transparency and helps us move forward as one community. This financial communication will be rolling out very soon.
4. The Council continues to encourage questions for the “We are glad you asked!” column. Anything that can be done to enhance communications will be prioritized by the Council and Staff.
As I concluded my third, 3-year term on Church Council in January 2025 there was a continual theme that wove through every meeting I attended: Over and over was the acknowledgement of the incredible generosity and support of the Bethel Congregation. Every challenge has been met by a “we can do this together” spirit. I believe that spirit comes to all of us through Jesus Christ. With a talented Pastoral staff, planning, dedication, and the Grace of God, the future of Bethel Lutheran Church looks very bright indeed.
With Great Appreciation and Thanks,
David J. Brandt
Interim President
Bethel Lutheran Church
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