Bethel’s Outreach Team is organizing a very special project. A group of folks in the town of Pomaria, right up the road from us, is planning to start a Summer Story Time for children under five-years-old. Many of the children in the Pomaria area are behind in basic skills, and reading books regularly is one way to help them catch up.

The plan is for each participating child to take a book home to keep each week. Gently used and/or new books appropriate for the age level are needed for this program. The Outreach Team feels it is a project that would allow us to help make a positive impact in our community. Collection boxes will be placed outside the office and in the back of the pulpit side of the nave.

Please share any children’s books you would like to contribute by May 15. All donations are appreciated!

The mission of the Linus Project is to provide a “security blanket” (like Linus’ of Peanuts fame), for warmth, love, and comfort to children who are seriously ill; or are suffering from abuse, homelessness, or displacement; or have been traumatized in some way and are in need.

You can help! If you knit, crochet, or quilt you can use your talent to make blankets or quilts as you have time, or those who prefer are encouraged to help by donating washable, acrylic yarn in bright, child friendly colors. Monetary contributions to help purchase supplies for volunteers who make the blankets and quilts are also welcomed.

Noisy Offering Sunday is every fifth Sunday during the year. This is an opportunity for Bethel to donate to charities. For every visitor who attends Bethel, we will add a $5 donation to the next Noisy Offering. Save your change (and bills) and bring them to church and drop them in the buckets to help us 'Make a Joyful Noise' to help support charities.

May 31 is the next Noisy Offering.

As Jesus Christ has blessed our lives in countless ways, we seek to be a blessing to others, in turn. As a church, we are outward-focused in many ways. We believe that Christ's word and love has made a profound impact on our lives, and we are excited to be the hands and feet of Jesus in our community.

Outreach efforts include service and relationships with many organizations, one being We Care of Chapin.