Bethany Lutheran Church – West Branch, Iowa

We will be celebrating Holy communion on Maundy Thursday and Easter Sunday. Those who will not be attending in person may come and get a cup for each service. The main church doors will be open Tuesday afternoon 1-4 PM, Wednesday 9 AM – Noon, Thursday 1-4:00 PM, Friday 9-Noon and Saturday 9-Noon, or to have one delivered to you call 319-643-5998.

The latest newsletter of FreeIndeed congregation at Anamosa State Penitentiary is available. As we did in worship yesterday, our prayers are with the entire community of ASP following the tragic events of last week.

Due to circumstances beyond Jill and I’s control, we were unable to record worship for this final Wednesday in Lent prior to Holy Week. The plan was to bookend the 5 Wednesday’s with a Healing of the Nations prayer service. Therefore, join us today for the first Wednesday Healing of the Nations Prayer Service (see below). The bulletin can be found below the video.

Today’s Lent prayer service will be the same as we used 2 weeks ago. (Click here) Next Wednesday, join us for a Healing of the Nations prayer service, similar to the one that kicked off our Lenten Wednesday services. We were unable to secure an individual to write a devotion for today so here is a prayer of healing located within our church hymnal, Evangelical Lutheran Worship (Copyright 2006 Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; Augsburg Fortress) Used by permission.

Almighty and merciful God, you are the only source of health and healing; you alone can bring calmness and peace. Grant to us, your children, an awareness of your presence and a strong confidence in you. In our pain, our weariness, and our anxiety, surround us with your care, protect us by your loving might, and permit us once more to enjoy health and strength and peace; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen.

Please see below for a devotional for this week. As we recorded our short prayer service of healing for creation outdoors on Sunday, there will be no premier of a video at noon. You can view Sunday’s worship service here.

Here is the order of worship for this Wednesday’s service of healing that we are going to attempt to do outdoors tonight. Seems fitting to have a creation service outdoors.

Faith Crafts for Spring Break: 
Bust Spring Break boredom with our faith-based “Grab and Go” children’s craft kits! They will be available at Bethany Lutheran Church starting on Saturday, March 13. Kits will be placed outside the northwest door in a “grab and go” set-up. Supplies are limited. Unlike our monthly kits, there is no registration for these. Stop by, see, and take what your family needs.

Easter Kit: No matter what Easter looks like for your family this year, we can help your family celebrate at home! Get an Easter kit for your family from Bethany Lutheran Church. It will include crafts & activities for Palm Sunday through Easter Sunday. It is designed for children ages 2-8. Please pre-register by Sunday, March 14 so we have enough supplies: https://forms.gle/MBFF6aeShnUrgS6u9
You do not need to be a member of Bethany Lutheran Church to participate; we welcome all children in our community. We hope you will join us!

The March newsletter is done and can be viewed here.