Meeting Your Needs
By Kathy Ferguson, RN, Parish Nurse
Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but fear your God. I am the LORD. Leviticus 19:14
Sometimes, you may feel challenged to attend services at Bethel because of a health condition that that limits your abilities. This may be a long-term or short-term condition. Whatever the case, we want you to feel comfortable when you are at Bethel. This month’s article will cover the health-related options that Bethel offers for everyone who worships here.
For the Hearing Impaired or Deaf
We have a looping system installed for those with compatible hearing aids.
We have assisted listening devices available—just ask one of the ushers.
There is a hearing interpreter available at the 9:00 a.m. worship service.
For the visually impaired
Outreach Ministry for the Visually Impaired and Blind: We welcome people with various vision impairments and blindness, as well as their family and friends. We gather monthly for a light meal, fellowship, to share and hear stories of courage, hope, and love.
There are also large print bulletins available at worship services—just ask the ushers.
Handicap Parking
There are 13 handicapped parking spots available in Bethel’s parking lot. Three of these are van-accessible*.
There are five senior citizen parking spots available.
There is a van available if you need a ride to and from the 9:00 a.m. worship service – just call the office before Saturday at noon: 507-288-6430.
*Please be considerate of individuals who need these spots, if you don’t need a van-accessible spot, please park in one of the other handicapped parking spots.
Wheelchair Accessibility
Bethel is fully wheelchair accessible.
The main entrance is equipped with automatic doors.
There are ramps and an elevator in the church.
A wheelchair is located in the coat room if needed.
There are eight wheelchair-specific designated areas in the sanctuary. These areas include this sign: “Seating in this area is reserved for those in a wheelchair or with restricted mobility, and their family.”
Dietary Needs
All bread served at Communion is gluten-free.
White grape juice is available on request—ask your server.
In Case of Emergency
Three Automated External Defibrillators are located in Bethel—one near the Sanctuary, in the Narthex; one outside of Bethel Hall; and one on the second floor, near the Sunday School office. Bethel staff have been trained in CPR and use of the AED.
There are five first aid kits located throughout Bethel, on all floors.
Just A Little Guidance
Bethel’s Adult Library has a wealth of resources on health, cancer, grief, parenting, and much more. Check out what’s available.
There is a health information kiosk located in Bethel Hall—check what’s going on at Bethel and in the community.
Have your blood pressure checked by the Parish Nurse on the 4th Sunday of most months between 8:30 and 11:45.
Have specific health-related questions? Contact the parish nurse or one of the pastors by calling the church office at 507 288 6430.
We want to meet your needs! If you have specific questions about accommodations at Bethel Lutheran Church, please call the church office at 507.288.6430.