May 23, 2020

To our Bentheim Church Family, and to all guests visiting our website:

This has been a very troubling and difficult time in all our lives, but living in this world as followers of Jesus Christ, we declare with joy that “our world belongs to God!”  And we confess with trust that “God is our refuge and strength, our very present help in times of trouble!” (Ps. 46).  We also recognize that – even though State and Federal restrictions are now lifting - we have a moral responsibility to one another to continue practicing such things as social distancing, wearing masks, and sanitizing surfaces.  This helps us to live out our mutual care and concern for one another, and to love our neighbors as ourselves.

We recognize that there may be many special needs during this time…and we are here for you!  For right now our staff will continue working remotely from their homes most of the time.  We desire to continue serving and loving one another, and being the hands and feet of Jesus Christ in this world.  You can reach out to us using the following contact info, or you can connect with us on our Facebook page.

• For spiritual help – Pastor Paul Burmeister (231) 286-4681 or, for our members, your designated Shepherding Elder

• For questions about cancellation of church events, and our summer schedule – Diane Boerman (see church phone # below)

• For questions about our in-person worship services and our “stay safe practices” – Allison Eding (616) 510-6688

• For financial (benevolence) assistance – Deacons Joe Timmer (616) 890-7882 or Jonathan Patmos (616) 836-1913

• The Church Phone # is (269) 751-5882 – please leave messages, as they will be picked up daily

We will continue to be the body of Christ in the midst of these very uncertain times, and our ministries of outreach will not cease.  We believe the Lord will guide each member of our church to put the love of Christ into action. We are witnesses to the King and to His Kingdom wherever we are.  We have an opportunity during this incredible time in history, when much of the world is feeling the strains of chaos, to proclaim the King’s reign and hope through our words and deeds.  Praise, worship, and prayer are the spiritual weapons God has given to us to fight this battle. We have peace because we are part of an unshakable Kingdom. God cannot be pulled off His throne, nor does anything surprise Him. He is the LORD!  We trust in Him, and we join in prayer together for His mercy and grace, for His Kingdom to be advanced, for His will to be done, and for His glory to fill the whole earth!  

The Lord bless and keep each and every one of you, and all your loved ones.  May He keep you safe and healthy, held in the hollow of His mighty hands.  Grace, mercy, and peace be yours through Christ our Lord!