PEMBERVILLE – The congregation of Bethlehem Lutheran Church will begin its 10-month celebration of its
150th anniversary in earnest on Sunday as Bishop Marcus Lohrmann will lead the worship service with the
theme "Our Lutheran Heritage."
The anniversary theme is "150 Years of Serving God and Living Under His Grace."
Organizers say they wish to give thanks for the 25 families who initiated Bethlehem Congregation in 1861.

"Through many trails and sacrifices these people kept God in their hearts and minds and persevered
with his help. Today’s members are thankful to these people and to God for what we now have and look
forward to the future with God’s guidance and help," a promotional release read.
Each month there will be an emphasis on a theme. Each month will feature a guest pastor, either a former
pastor or a son of the congregation, culminating in a Gala Celebration on Reformation Sunday in October.

The initial schedule shows: Feb. 20, Rev. Bob Sander, "History of Bethlehem Lutheran Church; March
20, Rev. Jeff Morlock, "Music;" April 10, Rev. James Budke. "Women’s Ministry;" May
22, Rev. Larry Nelson, "Youth Ministry;" June 19, Rev Ted Menter and Rev. Bill Menter,
"Mission Statement;" July 17, Rev. Reuben Mellum, "Grace;" Aug. 14, Steve Eulberg
and Rev. Craig Beeker, "Pemberville Community Service;" and Sept. 18, Rev. James Dumke,
"Christian Education.
The sesquicentennial celebration will conclude with the gala event on Oct. 30 featuring Rev. David
Wietelmann and David Schellhase.
A luncheon will be served on each of these special occasions, following the second service.
The committees are making available a small booklet which describes the history of the congregation, a
DVD describing some of the ongoing programs of the church and a commemorative ornament. The theme of the
month is being worked by the various committees which will display the important aspects of their theme.

"Some of our members remember but all have benefited from the members that have gone before us and
make the greatness of Bethlehem Congregation. It is fitting that we honor their work and efforts and
celebrate what God has done here," the publicity information notes.
The public is invited to attend any or all of these celebrations. Worship services are at 8 and 10:30
a.m. on Sunday. For more information call the church office at (419) 287-4182.