This month we are highlighting the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) grant of $100,000 for Bethesda Lutheran Communities.

Bethesda Lutheran Communities is a nationally recognized organization that provides homes, support and advocacy for people with intellectual disabilities. It has had a mission to provide services that will enhance lives with the sharing of the good news of Jesus Christ for over 110 years. They provide services to over 1,900 individuals at 300 program sites in over thirteen states.

Bethesda, through its “Lifting Up Bethesda” program, works to break down barriers for people with intellectual disabilities so that they can become part of their church body. Ministry consultants work to ensure the individuals are welcomed in the Word and Sacrament. The costs associated with these integral faith-based services are not subject to state reimbursement like other services Bethesda offers. So the faith-based services rely heavily on volunteers, ministry partners, congregational support and private donors.

This grant will assist with travel expenses and help fund the ministry consultants completing the Faith in Action workbooks with each individual; aid in connecting individuals with congregations of their choosing; assist in educating and training congregations and church leaders; and promote increasing congregational awareness and support of these faith-based services.

Lutheran Women's Missionary League (LWML) is the official women’s auxiliary of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Since 1942, the LWML has focused on affirming each woman’s relationship with Christ, encouraging and equipping women to live out their Christian lives in active mission ministries and by supporting global missions. For more information on each month’s mission focus, visit LWML.org. Saint John’s Mission Guild (LWML) meets the first Tuesday of each month at 10:30 AM in Room 301. All ladies of the congregation are invited to attend.