Faith: Bethleham Lutheran Church tries to distinguish itself from others

Bethlehem Lutheran Church distinguishes itself through the combination of Scripture-based liturgical and elemental worship and unique community outreach, service and evangelical programs for the greater Marysville area. It also boasts one of the largest Christian preschool and kindergarten schools in the region, providing small classroom attention and Biblical education. Bethlehem strives to educate and instruct members and visitors in the path of Jesus Christ while celebrating its Lutheran heritage as

part of the greater ecumenical body of Christ.

Worship at Bethlehem employs high-quality music programs incorporating full and relevant choral and instrumental groups, extra-liturgical Artist Series concerts and events, and historic and Biblical musical education. Each service is customized to the message of the scriptures and theme of spiritual revelation in observance of the liturgical church calendar and seasons. Music encompasses all genres and styles in creation of a participatory and sacrificial worship environment. Talent of all ages is fostered in spiritual and artistic prowess through private and group instruction, internships, and performance and leadership opportunities.

Christian Education through the church offers Sunday school for children of all ages, adult classes, men’s and women’s Bible studies, and youth activities. Bethlehem also produces VBS each summer for children

of the whole community. Bethlehem Christian School serves families of the community by teaching

children ages 3 to 6 Christian faith and values, cognitive reasoning, and early development of social and emotional skills in preparation for continued education.

Outreach projects at Bethlehem include: Marysville Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, Equal Exchange products, Salvation Army dinners, and Josephine Caring Community, among others. Bethlehem also partners with The Boy Scouts of America, Bethany of the Northwest and Lutheran World Relief. Annual grants through the Mission Endowment Fund help both local and global outreach efforts and support students in seminary training.

A unique opportunity for the region is the Community Gardens at the Wilcox Farm satellite property located on 67th Avene in Marysville where anyone can rent a garden plot for horticultural use. Other in-house services at the main campus include an emergency food pantry offering baby items and personal hygiene kits, an annual school kit drive, and licensed marriage and family counseling provided by the Lutheran Counseling Network.

As a pillar in the community since 1899, Bethlehem Lutheran Church and School continue to provide the Marysville area with Christ-centered worship, Bible-based education and Spirit-led servanthood.

The Vision Statement of Bethlehem reads: To be a faithful, active church reaching out to all with love by encouraging spiritual growth, strengthening disciples and sending out servants who follow Jesus Christ.

Bethlehem Lutheran Church is a member of the Northwest Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America and the World Council of Churches. Address: 7215 51st Ave. NE in Marysville. Phone: 360-659-2022. School phone: 360-653-2882. Sunday service and Sunday School are held at 9:30 a.m. www.blcmarysville.com