We're Glad you Asked!

A Financial and Ministry Update from the Church Council

Updates -

Ministry -

Updates -

Ministry -

We’re Glad You’re Here

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!

Financial Update

November 2025

· How is Bethel doing financially as we end 2025?

Building liability insurance premiums are now lower during the second half of 2025 and first half of 2026; several building projects were completed; and no special fund raising is needed in Nov/Dec of 2025 as had occurred in 2024.

· Building projects completed in 2025

New carbon monoxide and natural gas detection alarms, compressor replacement, mechanical lift equipment, parking lot resurfacing, and some minor roof repairs.

· Endowment fund distributions

Able to help all of Bethel’s standing teams that requested budgets to be fully funded for the year.

· You have multiple avenues to generosity with your contributions and endowment fund gifts…

Venmo, Simply Giving, Thrivent Choice Dollars, Donor Advised Funds (DAF’s), Qualified Charitable Donation (QCD) from IRA, Gifting of appreciated equities, and Direct gifting.

Your Questions Answered

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