06-2012 June Heartbeat - Bethesda Christian Church

Writer/director of This Is The Day
LIVE!, Rob Susan, also found time to
warm up the “studio audience” with
a spot-on New Joisey accent.
On Sunday May 20, Bethesda’s kids blessed the whole church with Children’s Ministries annual Spring
Concert, This Is The Day LIVE! Even the congregation got into the action, playing the role of the
“studio audience” in a daytime TV talkshow. Afterward, hungry Bethesdans packed-out the Crystal
Dining Room for the always enjoyable Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser followed by the the exciting
and competitive Bake Sale/Auction. It was a memorable morning and afternoon. Great job, everyone!
Front cover: Top: The dynamic hosts of This Is The Day LIVE, Beatrice and Matthew Lee (Sarina Chupik
and Grant Susan) interview disillusioned teen idol, Logan Walborn (Ethan Swartz). Bottom: The Kids’
Praise Choir, led by Brittani Chambers. Cover photography by Jamie Gentile
Rappers Hip-D (Connor Saunders) and Hopp (Jacob Canady)
creatively explain to Logan Walborn (Ethan Swarts) that
Jesus needs to be in charge of his life.
“Cue the dancers!” The Kids’ Praise
Choreography Group waits behind
stage for their next big moment.
At the Spaghetti Dinner, James Dunn
acknowledges the monumental plate
of pasta and meatballs soon to be
obliterated by Brian Swartz
GUY PENROD CONCERT
On Saturday, May 5,
Guy Penrod stormed
Bethesda’s stage
with a diverse
collection of songs,
including hits
from his days with
the Gaither Vocal
Band, traditional
hymns, as well
as new favorities
from his solo CD,
Breathe Deep. Guy’s
renowned tenor
voice and his sincere
Christian demeanor
seemed to touch the
hearts of everyone
in attendance.
June 3, 2012
InsIde thIs Issue...
» Letters To/From Bethesdans
» Spotlight: Men’s Ministry
» Missions Corner: Summerfest
» Bethesda: 78 & Going Strong
Year 24, Issue 6

2 JUNE 2012
heartbeat o f bethesda 11 JUNE 2012
heartbeat o f bethesda
TO
FROM
BETHESDANS
Prayer
Sonja Bultynck reports that she is feeling 100% better after a calamity of complicated
medical issues tested doctors, specialists and her own faith. Now diagnosed with
epilepsy, she has a few hurdles remaining, including the six-month loss of her drivers
license and having to leave her job. Nonetheless, she says the new understanding
and appreciation she gained from the power of prayer made it all worthwhile. Now
recovered, Sonja is seeking employment or free-lance assignments in the marketing/
communications/public relations field. Pray for insight, leads and patience to wait for
the assignment God desires for her.
If it weren't for calls from Phyllis Nelson, Twyla Baggett and Barry Allen, I'd still be lost. They
shared God's love with me and submitted prayer requests for me. In turn, our congregation--
YOU--joined them, praying for me when I could not--or worse--would pnot. God was listening!
Everything around me began improving in miraculous ways, especially my health. I clearly
recognized the signs and knew I was surrounded by the Spirit--thanks to my Bethesda family.
May you all be rewarded for your selflessness, conviction and love."
T
Please thank my church family for the prayers, phone calls and everything done to help
Joe and me through our trials. God is a gracious God. His mercies carried us through. Joe
departed from here knowing Jesus, and he showed it in his life. Please continue to pray for
THANK YOU!
L
My heartfelt thanks to Rev. Barry Allen and his boys for cleaning my backyard! God bless you
God Is Good!
SUPPORT
"At times I was so full of self pity, feeling abandoned by God, that I actually stopped praying.
Kind Gesture
Love, Sonja Bultynck
Dear Pastor Analee:
my strength in the Lord. God is truly faithful!
Sharon Wesley and the Wesley Family
Dear Pastor Dunn:
all for your kindness.
Barbara Franzen
Then you
will know
which way to
go, since you
have never
been this way
before...
Consecrate
yourselves,
for tomorrow
the LORD
will do
amazing
things among
you...
He did
this so
that all the
peoples of the
earth might
know that
the hand of
the LORD is
powerful and
so that you
might always
fear the
LORD your
God.
Joshua 3 & 4
Missions Corner
SUMMERFEST 2012
As director of Care, Outreach and Missions at Bethesda, I thank God for opportunities
to meet and exchange ideas with my counterparts from other churches. Through our
combined physical and spiritual resources, we are better able to demonstrate God’s
abundance…across our region, within our cities and in our neighborhoods. I am grateful
that Bethesdans have so generously supported organizations like EACH (Everyone A
Chance to Hear) because that support is a beautiful representation of what can be
accomplished when God’s people unify in Christ. And it’s not just about providing
for one’s tangible needs. EACH has also provided opportunities for God’s people to
minister to others and to tell them that God’s love can bring complete fulfillment into
every aspect of their lives.
Warren Summerfest is another combined enterprise (actually, it’s two separate events
held on the same day) that gives God’s people the opportunity to demonstrate their
faith and serve in communities where people have significant needs, whether tangible
or spritual. Founded eight years ago by Liberty Family Outreach in Warren, Summerfest’s
list of partners now includes several local churches (including Bethesda Christian
Church), civic organizations and corporations. Together, they assembled more than 500
volunteers at last year’s Summerfest. Yet, each year Summerfest’s attendance has risen,
so even more volunteers will be needed at Summerfest 2012.
Thanks to volunteers and sponsors, Summerfest has touched families in Warren and
neighboring communities by providing essential goods and services - at no charge -
including bicycle repair, groceries, haircuts (just in time for school!), sports physicals,
backpacks loaded with school supplies, and much, much more. At the same time,
however, Summerfest attendees have been afforded the opportunity to learn about
Jesus...to know that He loves them and will furnish all of their needs.
Summerfest 2012 occurs Saturday, August 12 at two locations in Warren: Shaw Park (on
Warner between 8 and 9 Mile Roads) and Underwood Park, where Bethesda’s volunteers
will serve (on Sidonie Ave., south of Toepfer and east of Schoenherr). If you know
someone who could use a friendly encounter with people who care, please tell them
about Summerfest. And if you can help, perhaps as a volunteer or sponsor, watch for
upcoming Summerfest news in Bethesda’s weekly bulletin, at the Summerfest Table in the
foyer (starting, June 10) or online at warrensummerfest.com. Above all, please remember
WarrenSummerfest 2012 in your prayers. Ask God to bless our combined efforts to serve
the people of this area, and that, through it all, His name would be glorified!
Rev. Barry Allen

10 JUNE 2012
heartbeat o f bethesda
Happy June Birthdays!
JUNE 1 - 7
Dolores Zak 41649 Bayhaven Harrison Twp 48045
Gerald Middaugh 251 Elizabeth Mt Clemens 48043
Theresa Bragg 8100 Gratiot Ave #115 Detroit 48213
Kelvin Magee 46006 Copper Lock Ln Macomb 48044
Sandra Gehart 357 Wellington Cres Mt Clemens 48043
Sherri Music 36798 Warwick Ct Clinton Twp 48035
Donna Tartt 37853 Santa Barbara St Clinton Twp 48036
Alicia Taylor 17901 Marsal Macomb 48042
Otis Kirkland 47305 Sunnybrook Ln Novi 48374
Christel Kies 31030 Bretz Dr Warren 48093
Elaine Freeman 13415 Martin Warren 48088
JUNE 8 - 14
Clark Hampton 23970 Rockingham St Southfield 48034
Patricia Kincaid 19232 Williamson St Clinton Twp 48035
Dan DeFillipi 4529 St Albans Dr Sterling Hts 48314
Patricia Farris 23537 Deziel St St Clair Shrs 48082
Dennis Muller 3750 Otis Ave Warren 48091
Cameron Cadarean 14262 Bangor Dr Sterling Hts 48313
Ray Moore 15864 Bringard Dr Detroit 48205
Richard Gingrich 2041 Oakcrest Rd Sterling Hts 48310
Donald Gearhart 47460 Old Orchard Dr Macomb 48044
Sharon Wesley 29600 Hiveley St Inkster 48141
Robert Evancho 55156 Lordona Ln Shelby Twp 48315
Joanna Jones 49141 Babcock Ct Shelby Twp 48315
Terry Francisco 35544 Collingwood Dr Sterling Hts 48312
Jerome Saputo 46585 Featherstone Rdg Shelby Twp 48317
Mary White 1601 Robert Bradby Dr Detroit 48207
Jean Harwood 18717 Delaware St Roseville 48066
JUNE 15 - 21
Ronald Gingrich 23129 Whitley Dr Clinton Twp 48035
Thomas Francisco 35544 Collingwood Dr Sterling Hts 48312
Geraldine Gilmore 27155 Hoover Rd #58 Warren 48093
Robert Jensen 11186 Busch Ave Warren 48089
Joseph Bologna 25482 Audrey Warren 48091
Patricia Gillett 1440 Hampton Rd Mt Clemens 48043
Steven Malek 137 Perrydale Roch Hills 48306
John Simon 5596 Stoney Place N Shelby Twp 48316
Deborah Sawicki 24084 Grange St Clinton Twp 48036
Virginia LeBlanc 40274 Spitz Dr Sterling Hts 48313
Roberta Lawson 17835 Mt. Vernon St Southfield 48075
Maurice Graves 23344 Coventry Wds Ln Southfield 48034
Ingrid Grasl 61171 Pinehurst Washington 48094
Dagmar Boyer 36762 Harwick Ct Clinton Twp 48035
Gilbert Francisco 30029 Dell Ln Warren 48092
Elena Cadarean 14262 Bangor Dr Sterling Hts 48313
Joseph Malak 29240 Grandview Harrison Twp 48045
JUNE 15 -21 (Continued)
Alex Barjaktarovich 30578 Harper Ave #A St Clair Shrs 48082
Barbara Maxwell 28820 Tavistock Trl Southfield 48034
Phyllis Fleming 39921 Urbana Dr Sterling Hts 48313
Arthur Perry 15065 Oak Knoll Ct Sterling Hts 48312
John Rutt 21084 Proust Ct Macomb Twp 48044
Gerrie Bell 23699 Merrill Ave Southfield 48075
Mattie Taylor 11194 Stockwell St Detroit 48224
JUNE 22 - 30
Janet Wood 64015 Limerick Ln Washington 48095
Anthony Costa 39447 Heatherheath Dr Clinton Twp 48038
Michael Hibbs DJ Ranch Ira 48023
Neva Biros 53996 Orson Dr New Balt. 48047
Herman Liggins 106 W Parkhurst Pl Highland Park 48203
Geraldine Gillespie 19824 Chalon St St Clair Shrs 48080
John Ellis 42660 Schienle Clinton Twp 48038
Frank Kramer 32442 Bunert Rd Warren 48088
Celeste
Wyzykowski
14057 Dunstable Shelby Twp 48315
Charles Johnson 21173 Greenview Rd Southfield 48075
Edward Place 23165 Hayes Eastpointe 48021
Karen Abella 23317 Glenbrook St Clair Shrs 48082
Mary Greenland 60663 Greenbrook Ct Washington 48094
Paul Lau 14030 Lakeside Blvd N
Apt 129
Shelby Twp 48315
Albert Sheets 43025 W Kirkwood Dr Clinton Twp 48038
David Smith 7424 N. Central Park Shelby Twp 48317
Luella Sanders 32474 Stoneybrook Ln Fraser 48026
Mary Lou Becker 12163 Brougham Dr Sterling Hts 48312
Daniel Orton 39957 Urbana Dr Sterling Hts 48313
Kathy Wampler 28600 Desmond Dr Warren 48093
JoAnn Douglas 38446 Warwickshire Dr Sterling Hts 48312
Patsy Denton 1800 Mack Rd Leonard 48367
Barbara Guthrie 29181 Hayes Apt 4 Warren 48088
Pamela Propst 37340 Hebel Rd Richmond 48062
Wilfred Kenward 44299 Providence Dr Clinton Twp 48038
Karen Jones 11178 Wilseck Ct Sterling Hts 48314
The Birthday List is for Bethesdans over age 50. We do not print anyone’s exact birth date due to privacy concerns.
If you do not want your name and address printed here please email Dan Orton, dorton@bethesdachristian.org and ask to be removed from the Birthday list.
3 JUNE 2012
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June Wedding Anniversaries
11 Chris & Rebekah Aziz 8211 Studebaker Warren 48089
38 Melvin & Twyla Baggett 39144 Early Dr Sterling Hts 48313
26 Steven & Paulette Bagnall 38253 Corbett Dr Sterling Hts 48312
16 Ronald & Gloria Becker 2342 Parliament Dr Sterling Hts 48310
26 Garland & Sheri Bryant 336 Union Marine City 48039
44 Joseph & Susan Bulat 111 Chalmers Dr Rochester Hills 48309
23 Todd & Robin Carley 210 Vreeland Dr Rochester Hills 48309
1 John & Wendy Carpenter 11958 Greenway Dr Sterling Hts 48312
22 Buz & Dianne Champine 34345 Jared Ct New Baltimore 48047
54 Harebell & Recalia Childress 975 E Davisburg Holly 48442
30 Christopher & Kathleen Conrad 11523 Messmore Rd Utica 48317
3 James & Rachel Cormany 7481 Flickinger Dr Shelby Twp 48317
20 Kenneth & Kimberly Dalen 38319 River Park Dr Sterling Hts 48313
36 James & Brenda Doom 1333 Fielding St Ferndale 48220
37 Jack & Kathy Dykstra 50750 Sass Rd Chesterfield 48047
49 Charles & Ethel Earles 23590 Demley Dr Clinton Twp 48035
12 Todd & Jennifer Eschenburg 28316 Park Ct Madison Hts 48071
55 John & Elaine Freeman 13415 Martin Warren 48088
6 James & Tricia Frye 31437 Lyons Circle E Warren 48092
31 Dennis & Bonnie Gale 35760 Willis Ct Clinton Twp 48035
11 Thomas & Kelly Gehart 47617 Stephanie Macomb 48044
31 Peter & Patricia Gresock 43121 Emily Dr Sterling Hgs 48314
4 Reginald & Kiela Griffin 37166 Robinhood Apt 91 Sterling Hts 48312
40 Larry & Lillian Harper 36616 Chene Dr Sterling Hts 48310
17 Michael & Debra Hibbs Dj Ranch Ira 48023
11 Eric & Teraneh Huotari 24913 Curie St Warren 48091
2 Douglas & Claire Kaherl 572 Oakbridge Dr Rochester 48306
54 John & Diane Kare 48264 Mallard Dr New Baltimore 48047
15 Otis & Carol Kirkland 47305 Sunnybrook Ln Novi 48374
47 Alvin & Linda Lawrence 698 Ridgewood Rd Rochester 48306
8 Matthew & Connie Marchesi 15794 Charles R Eastpointe 48021
9 Matthew & Katreece McIntyre 51838 Kings Pointe Dr New Baltimore 48047
1 Harrison & Keticia Mitchell 20515 Webster St Clinton Twp 48035
31 Gerald & Norma Nordstrom 21611 Sussex St Oak Park 48237
34 Edward & Lila Place 23165 Hayes Eastpointe 48021
31 Timothy & Pamela Propst 37340 Hebel Rd Richmond 48062
16 Mark & Lisa Randon 1511 Brooklyn Detroit 48226
59 George & Patricia Reszewski 35632 Marrocco St Clinton Twp 48035
1 Renato & Kenyetta Roxas 4465 S Castlewood Ct Auburn Hills 48326
50 Albert & Lois Sheets 43025 W. Kirkwood Dr Clinton Twp 48038
9 Christopher & Kathy Sich 2724 Palms Rd Columbus 48063
29 Kenneth & Laura Stallons 17791 Rocco Dr Macomb 48044
40 William & Phyllis Staugaard 2278 Ulster Rd Rochester Hills 48309
20 Robert & Peggy Susan 38206 Delta St Clinton Twp 48036
23 Christopher & Nievelyn Tecson 40725 Rinaldi Dr Sterling Hghts 48313
21 William & Sabrena Thompson 19225 Eastborne Harper Woods 48225
9 Trevor & Sheryl Vallus 8121 Hedgeway Dr Utica 48317
2 Terrence & LaToya Ward 8258 Fisher Warren 48089
7 Richard & Rachel Werner 37519 Charter Oaks Blvd Clinton Twp 48036
32 Cleve & Teresa Williams 36773 LaMarra Dr Sterling Hghts 48310
19 Harold & Patricia Williams 10606 W Outer Dr Detroit 48223
44 Walter & Mary Wordell 1718 Kilburn Rd N Rochester Hills 48306
Heartbeat of Bethesda
a monthly newsletter of
Bethesda Christian Church
14000 Metropolitan Parkway
Sterling Heights, MI 48312
(586) 264-2300 • BethesdaChristian.org
Please email all submissions to
Heartbeat:
dorton@bethesdachristian.org
-CHURCH MISSION-
Enhancing Knowledge
Encouraging Relationships
Embracing Destiny
Se n i o r Pa S t o r
Rev. Analee Dunn
ar t S
Terry Allen
Bi B l e in S t i t u t e
Dr. Ruth Whittaker
Building & gr o u n d S
Brian Swarts
BuSineSS Ma n a g e r
James Dunn
Ca r e & ou t r e a C h
Rev. Barry Allen
Ch i l d r e n’S MiniStry
Rob Susan
St u d e n t MiniStry
Jesse Allen
Co l l e g i a t e MiniStry
Terry Allen
Co M M u n i C a t i o n S
Dan Orton
ed u C a t i o n & Me n’S MiniStrieS
Rev. Patrick Visger
Fa M i l y MiniStrieS
Rev. Timothy Helland
in F o r M a t i o n te C h n o l o g y
Maurice Graves
MiSSionS
Rev. Barry Allen
Pa r k w a y ChriStian SC h o o l
Lila Place
wo M e n’S MiniStrieS
Rev. Julie Visger

4 JUNE 2012
heartbeat o f bethesda
Men’s Ministries
Director: Rev. Patrick Visger
“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” At Bethesda
Christian Church, the Men’s Ministry has applied this axiom as
it provies the means for men to sharpen one another as they
grow in Christ Jesus. Studying and applying the Word of God
is primary. Last year the Men’s ministries launched the fall
season by hosting Peter Nielsen at a sold-out breakfast where
he presented Principles of Hope. Next, we began a study based
on the book, The Fred Factor, where we saw how four “core
principles” -- make a difference, build successful relationships, create
value for others, and constantly improve -- can be applied to our
Christian walk. This isn’t surprising since these core principles
are also biblical principles! The gatherings were outstanding
not only for their excellent content, but as opportunities for
men to meet new friends and pray for one another.
On the heels of The Fred Factor, the men of Bethesda asked for
more...more great studies and material, more and varied times
for men to gather, and more opportunities to pray for one
another. Thus, by popular demand, Iron Sharpens Iron begins
a twice-monthly schedule this month, and all men are invited
to join in the kickoff of our newest series, Honor Begins at
Home. It is based on the recent blockbuster film, Courageous,
and provides an 8-session study to guide men deeper into
biblical truths for a Godly family by exploring topics such as
accountability, responsibility, walking with integrity, and more.
Every session will include a clip from the movie to foster
discussion and inspire a thirst for more of God’s Word. We begin
Saturday, June 9 at 8am in the Family Center Auditorium with
hot coffee and donuts on hand. Each month, we will meet on
one Saturday morning and one Thursday evening. If you can’t
make all the meetings, come to the ones that accommodate
your schedule and be a part of building the camaraderie of
Bethesda’s men. Stop by the Men’s Ministries table in the foyer
to pick up a study guide.
As I look forward to the summer and fall seasons, I am
hopeful that the men of Bethesda will respond not only to
opportunities for Bible study, but to invitations to gather and
serve on our grounds. In conjunction with the Building and
Grounds department, planning is already underway to give
Ministry Spotlight
every man a chance to serve on certain designated dates in the
summer and fall. The dates will be announced in advance and
will offer times for groups of men to be good stewards of the
blessing God has bestowed on us by way of Bethesda’s beautiful
campus. Working side-by-side, we will help keep the buildings
and grounds of our church in the best possible condition!
For years, the Men’s Ministry has hosted a variety of sports
leagues including soccer, basketball and softball, comprised of
teams from Bethesda and other area churches. The forming
and operation of these leagues would not be possible without
solid leadership from men in our
congregation. One such man is John
Kurtz, who has been the commissioner
of the basketball league for many years
and co-commissioner of the softball
league. The recent conclusion of the
spring basketball league brought John’s
tenure as its leader to a close. With
a lovely new wife and expanded family
responsibilities, John now has new and higher priorities. I want
to take this opportunity to let all who are reading know that
John as been an extraordinary leader, providing the men of our
church and many other churches an avenue for competition,
exercise, and fun in a Christian environment. Life is an ongoing
adventure of change, and John’s adventure has taken a new
direction! I am truly going to miss him. If you see John, please
congratulate him and thank him for his exemplary service.
On a closing note, I am looking for a capable and willing man of
Bethesda to oversee the men’s basketball league. Contact me
if you have an interest.
Together with you in His service,
Rev. Patrick Visger
John Kurtz
9 JUNE 2012
heartbeat o f bethesda
Homeschooling is the education of choice for our family. It allows the kids to learn at their own pace and receive ample attention
from the teacher. A few years back, my mom started taking us to a home school co-op for a chance to meet other homeschoolers.
Socialization was something she never wanted us to miss out on. She always felt it was important to have solid friendships as well as
a solid education. Since then, she has become very involved in the co-op by teaching classes and volunteering as much as she can.
Not long ago, she accepted the position of deacon in the church. Both she and my father have maintained a respectable reputation
as genuine leaders and disciples of Christ. Their most admirable trait is their love for people.
Not only is she a mother to her children, but also to her children’s friends. Many young teenagers came to her to share their problems
and seek advice. Some even regard her as a second mother.
My mother’s spiritual gift has always been service. She uses that gift to the fullest, but knows her ministry begins not in the church
but in her own home. It is remarkable the lengths she has gone to for the sake of her children. When I was struggling to pay for dance
classes, she willingly volunteered at the studio to cut the tuition in half. She even dealt with the grumpy parents and financial projects
that extended into the following year.
Very few people truly understand how strong our mother is. One of the many challenges we’ve faced as a family is raising a child with
special needs. At first, the news was devastating. But instead of focusing on the problems ahead, she decided to put her trust wholly
in God and seek help for her son. She enrolled him in special classes and fought for the best education that could be provided. Now,
through constant love and devotion, he has advanced into a normal child’s curriculum and is an outstanding student.
Over the years, I have grown to appreciate her more and more. My sister and I both hope to gain the amazing qualities that she
possesses. Even though some days are harder than others, she wakes up every morning with optimism and determination. All of
these qualities and more are what I think have earned Dawn Gauthier the Mother of the Year award.
Leanne Gauthier
ANN BARKER
Our Mom and Grandma has an inner strength from the Lord and such passion for the things of God! We have had the privilege of
growing up, living with, and learning from such a woman. As we grew, our mom took us to church every Sunday. I can remember her
taking us back to church to participate in special programs and Vacation Bible School in the summer.
When we first came to Bethesda in 1973, our Mom heard about Catechism. Not only did she sign up for
the class, my sister and I found our names on the roster as well. We didn’t have a choice about going,
and we never said no to choices mom made for us back then! I’m glad she made us go; we are changed
individuals because of it. She also saw to it that all the grandchildren attended Catechism as well. Not
only is our mom concerned about our lives here on Earth, she is concerned about our eternal life as
well.
Mom has had several events take place in her life that only God was able to see her through. Time after
time, we’ve seen how God has moved in her life. The Lord has been there through sickness, financial
situations, and even grief. We can truly say that the Lord’s hand has been upon her. We’ve never seen
someone stand strong through the storms of life as Mom has. She never gives up or backs down,
because she knows that God will see her through. She is a walking testimony to not just our family,
but to anyone who sits down and talks with her. We are encouraged and our faith is stronger because
of her and what the Lord has done in her life. We can truly say that God answers prayer. If you have a
need, just ask her to pray, and she will take your situation to God. She is a true prayer warrior. When
Mom prays, things happen!
She has given so much of herself over her lifetime that we cannot begin to say thank you enough. She rarely says no when you ask
something of her. If you need her, she is always there, no matter what. We are very blessed to have such a loving and God-fearing
Mother.
Gail Eskridge, Brittani Chambers, Evan Eskridge and Family

8 JUNE 2012
heartbeat o f bethesda
2012 BETHESDA CHRISTIAN CHURCH MOTHERS OF THE YEAR
The staff of Bethesda Christian Church appreciates all of the sons and daughters who lovingly submitted Mother of
the Year nominations on their mothers’ behalf. Each letter was a touching and heartfelt account of the strength, faith
and love that are so evident in the our Bethesda mothers! The wonderful stories of this year’s winners appear below,
but we congratulate all of the moms who have inspired such love and devotion in their children.
DORINE BIRG
We are so grateful for our mom. When she was 19, her
mom passed away from cancer; and though we as Christians
have comfort that our loved ones are with Jesus, it can still
be difficult. She eventually married, had three kids and
did a WONDERFUL job raising us, even without her own
mom to give her advice, comfort and just to love on us or
her. That makes us all the more grateful to have Mom in
our lives and realize how very blessed we are. It is truly
priceless.
Our mom is not only a great mom, but a prayer warrior, top notch! We believe her prayers have carried us through our struggles and
brought many blessings. She is a perfect example of a mom and True Believer! When struggles and setbacks come into her or our
lives, she knows where to go -- straight to Jesus -- and to stand on every promise of God. She recently had a heart catheterization,
blood clot-removal surgery in her arm, as well as a triple bypass and valve-replacement heart surgery, which was a true test of her
faith...and ours! She came through the storm and is a living testimony of the Lord’s healing power. For us to be able to see how the
Lord carried her through...the way He was always with her...was such a shining example of her faith and an awesome example of the
Mom she has been to us, both as we grew and now during our adult years.
Mom, we love you more than we can ever say with our words. Thank you for ALL you have done, ALL that you do and for the LOVE
you show us each and every day. You are also the BEST GRANDMA in the world and we couldn’t ask for a better woman to be our
Mother and Grandma.
Katy, Jake and Josh Shermetaro
Dan Birg
Deanna Birg
DAWN GAUTHIER
From the time she was a girl, she had been a mother. She took care of her
brother when her mom was at work, feeding him and putting him to bed.
Since money was tight, she worked at a fast-food restaurant and made sure her
teenage brother could eat meals for free. Ever since she was young, she knew
that she had wanted to be a parent. If you were ever to meet her, you would
recognize the maternal quality that is so inherent in her.
Her whole life revolves around the family. For a while, she would joke about
how we should paint our car yellow like a taxi because she was always driving
us to dance, piano, soccer, voice lessons, cosmetology, church as well as other
events and activities. This mother has gone the extra mile to help her kids
pursue their dreams. She supports each of us 100%, even if it means braving the cold weather that she hates to watch soccer games
and practices (unless it rains). She drove with me to dance auditions, sat through hundreds of classes, and went out of her way to
take me to those classes on a weekly basis.
They say that, “A man’s home is his castle.” However, I believe in this case, she owns the castle. She takes pride in its upkeep and
maintenance. Virtually everyone who visits our home comments on how “fun” or “comfortable” it looks and feels. Her cooking skills
are widely acclaimed among her friends and family. She is inventive as well as resourceful with her meals. The slim budget she had
while growing up has enabled her to make a dollar stretch beyond that of the average family.
5 JUNE 2012
heartbeat o f bethesda
Updates on our Home-Bound Friends
Communion is available to Bethesda members who are in the hospital, home-bound or in nursing care. Contact Rev. Barry Allen
at the church office at least two weeks before the first Sunday of the month to be placed on the schedule. To be served, the
recipient must be available on the first Sunday afternoon of the month, unless other arrangements are made with the church or the
assigned elder or deacon. You can reach Rev. Barry Allen at 586-264-2300, Ext. 114 or email him at ballen@bethesdachristian.org.
On Sunday May 6th we visited with
Isabelle Ferianc. As we arrived, she
was waiting by an open window,
enjoying the spring breeze, and we
complimented her on the pretty tulip
dress she wore. Isabelle complained
of arthritis in her back and requested
prayer. She expressed boredom with
life and said she’s ready to go home.
Still, we all enjoyed the communion
service, and so we asked her to lead
us in a song or two, catching her
by surprise. Her eyes lit up as she
thought of one of the old church
hymns. We assisted her with the lyrics,
but it was evident that Isabelle enjoys
singing, as she listened to every word
(or read my lips) and did her best to
keep up with the beat. We shared
some birthday jokes, as she and I were
born in the same month (April), but she
refused to reveal her birth year! She
was a good sport, and we ended our
time together in prayer. Please pray for
God’s healing of her arthritic condition.
Kit and Karleen Warren
Sylvia Fitton is 94 years old and such a
joy to talk with. She stays in touch with
friends from Bethesda, and with every
visit, she asks for the latest church
news. She told us that her brother had
been to see her on the previous day.
As we sat in the lunchroom, ready to
serve Communion, a gentleman came
over to join us. He sings at one of the
facility’s church services. He told us
his story and we all prayed together.
Richard & Virginia Baldwin
Betty Grasl was anxiously awaiting
communion and our visit. She spoke
of her Bethesda friends and reminisced
about church. Betty has trouble
getting around, saying her legs are her
“enemy” as they just won’t let her do
what she’d like to do! She is grateful
for her family, for their visits and the
cleaning and grocery shopping they do
for her. Gail & Don Toth
Elly Idyle was waiting patiently for
us to arrive after service. She misses
seeing everyone at Bethesda since she
has stopped driving. We discussed
some of the fond memories she has
of the church members. One vivid
memory she told was about Pastor
Emeritus AKA Brother Jim. She and
her husband, Al, used to park near
Brother Jim’s parking spot. One day,
she was alone when Brother Jim pulled
up. As they met in the parking lot,
he took her by the arm and escorted
her into church. She radiated with joy
telling the story. Her thankfulness for
the goodness of God over the years is
contagious. We spoke of Jesus and His
sacrifice, and enjoyed the communion
service together. Jamie and Lisa Gentile
In bringing the communion service
to Leander Mckee, I thought how
great it would have been to know
him prior to his present situation.
He is such a gracious man with a
pleasant disposition. He spoke of
his appreciation for the Heartbeat of
Bethesda, the church bulletin, and the
weekly phone calls from Bethesdans.
He was having a good day, and we
spoke of his health and the latest
movies on DVD. We began communion
service with self-examination, prayed
over the bread and the cup, and asked
God for the blessing that comes from
communing with Him. We sang about
six of the old choruses, and then I
shared a portion of Sunday’s message
as encouragement to not let our hearts
be troubled. Finally, we prayed for
God’s continued healing and blessing in
Leander’s life. Herman Liggins
We served Vernon “Bill” Thompson
today and, as always, it was a delight
to see him. He wore a big smile (as
usual) and says he feels good. We
talked about cars, the various makes
and models, and what years they were
manufactured. Bill recently turned 95
and celebrated (with help from Linda
and Joe Cadariu plus several family
members and church friends) by taking
a party bus to his favorite restaurant,
Tim Horton’s. Later, the group enjoyed
a fine visit to Stoney Creek and ended
the day at the Cadariu home for
cake and ice cream. What a terrific
celebration it was! John & Karen Jones
Mattie Woods was waiting for me as
I arrived to serve her communion.
She is tired of the back pain and
really misses being at church. We
spoke of the Guy Penrod concert on
Saturday (May 5), and Mattie said
she’d like to have been there. We
talked about Youth Catechism, and I
told her that Linda was pleased and
honored to have laid hands on our own
granddaughter. Mattie agreed that it
was an extra special moment. I served
Mattie communion and prayed for her
renewed strength and good health. We
ended our time together in a time of
worship and praise. Maurice Graves
Because of her dinner plans, Catherine
Zabrzenski was unable to meet for
communion, but we each enjoyed our
telephone visit. Catherine said she is
very blessed and has need of nothing.
She still remembers the song “I am
blessed!” and tries to remember to sing
it everyday! She says when she thinks
of Bethesda she prays for the whole
group at once, because it would take
her too long to name all of her many
friends. Catherine loves to give away
mints at Oakmont, just like she used
to do at Bethesda. Her inspiration for
doing a good deed, even if it is just
a mint, comes from hearing Ma Beall
preach that we should do good things
for others because the devil will never
tell you to do a good thing! Catherine
still shares the love of God wherever
she is and is very thankful for her
family and church. It was inspiring to
talk to Catherine. If you remember her,
give her a call to say hello, it will bless
you! Tom and Rhea Withers

6 JUNE 2012
heartbeat o f bethesda 7 JUNE 2012
heartbeat o f bethesda
BETHESDA CHRISTIAN CHURCH - ESTABLISHED JUNE 17, 1934
Seventy-eight years ago this month, Pastor M.D. Beall opened a small neighborhood Sunday school in a storefront
building once used to retread tires. There were no chairs or songbooks because there was no money. But God’s
blessing became evident in that very first service, as 18 chairs and songbooks arrived by truck as a gift from a local
pastor and his church. Since then, God has shown His faithfulness with each passing year, as the Sunday school for
children grew to become Bethesda Missionary Temple and eventually, Bethesda Christian Church. We are humbled
by God’s greatness toward us. However, as Bethesda begins it’s 79th year, we should expect that, as we continue
in the faith, God has even greater things in store! Meantime, we trust you’ll enjoy reviewing some of Bethesda’s
milestones and a photographic glimpse into our past.
June 17, 1934: Myrtle Dorthea (M.D.) Beall opens
Sunday school for neighborhood children in a
small, storefront building.
1936: Due to the insufficient confines of the
storefront, Mrs. Beall convinces a local merchant
to spend $800 on her behalf for a wooden,
portable church (capacity: 250) from a local
lumberyard.
Early 1940s: Construction of a larger sanctuary
halts after the basement’s completion due to
WWII supply shortages. The facility becomes
known as the Basement Church. Capacity: 600.
1943: Pastor M.D. Beall begins the America To Your
Knees radio ministry.
1947: James Lee Beall, Pastor Beall’s eldest son,
joins the staff at Bethesda
1949: Dedication of the new sanctuary, Bethesda
Missionary Temple. Capacity: 1700
1952: Bethesda’s gymnasium is constructed,
along with kitchen and locker room facilities.
1964: Construction is completed on a new educational
building, erected on the former site of the
Basement Church, destroyed by fire in 1962.
1971: Bethesda’s main sanctuary is expanded.
1973: Bethesda School opens for grades K - 3.
1977: New high school building completed.
1979: Rev. M.D. Beall passes away.
1979: James Lee Beall named Senior Pastor.
1982: Bethesda purchases 92 acres in Sterling
Heights. Cost: $1.46 million.
1986: Bethesda Christian School relocates to
Frazho Road in Warren.
1986: Groundbreaking at Bethesda’s future
Sterling Heights location.
1988: Sale completed of Bethesda’s Detroit
facilities.
1988: As construction on the new sanctuary
continues, the first services at Bethesda Christian
Church are held in the Crystal Dining Rooms
1989: Dedication of Bethesda Christian Church in
Sterling Heights.
1995: Analee Dunn is ordained.
1998: Bethesda Christian School relocates to the
church campus.
2004: Rev. Analee Dunn named Senior Pastor.
2004: Rev. James L. Beall named Pastor Emeritus.
Pastor M.D. Beall and her husband Harry Lee Beall are surrounded by Bethesda’s congregation in the
late-1930s. The “portable” building was purchased in 1936 by a local businessman for $800.
The Main Sanctuary of Bethesda Missionary Temple was dedicated in 1949. Shown above at its
groundbreaking are (L-R) Rev. James L. Beall, Aurel Dikin (with shovel), Phil Baer, Pastor M.D. Beall and
Harry Lee Beall.
The east view (Van Dyke Avenue) of Bethesda Missionary Temple is shown following the
1971 expansion of the Main Sanctuary and church offices.
In the early 1970s, Bethesda’s acquisition of the of the Metroplitan
Life building, located two blocks south of the church on Van Dyke
Avenue, provided much-needed additional classroom space.
Rev. James L. Beall and Phil Baer
Bethesda acquired and converted this building, located across
Van Dyke from Bethesda’s Main Sanctuary, into a dining/
banquet facility. It was dedicated as the P.W. Baer Building.
This aerial view of
Bethesda Missionary
Temple shows the
front of the Main
Sanctuary (left of the
cross) and the attached
Educational Building,
added in 1964. The
Educational Building
was erected on the
former site of the
“Basement Church.”
The Evangel Press
building and adjacent
gymnasium are to the
right of the Educational
Building (across School
Street).