Bright Stars Of Bethlehem

Constellations September 2011 Newsletter



		September 2011

		In this issue: See what God is doing now in Bethlehem • Photos needed for a virtual trip to the Holy Land • Four easy ways to support Bright Stars • New videos on the Bright Stars YouTube channel • Upcoming events and trips

		See what God is doing now in Bethlehem "Our friends ask us why we keep going back to Bethlehem," says Bonnie Van Overbeke. "I always tell them it's to see what God is doing right now in the little town of Bethlehem!" Each year, Bright Stars of Bethlehem, and other friends of Bright Stars, sponsor more than six trips to the Holy Land. This authentic tourism opportunity is also a very real learning opportunity. Nancy Baumgardner, who has traveled several times with Van Overbeke says, "The way our nation experiences the Palestinian people and culture is not real. Palestinian people are the most patient people in the world." "And gracious and hospitable too," added Van Overbeke. "For many people, the first trip to Bethlehem is to experience the birthplace of Jesus and walk the paths that he walked. But what happens is a transformation to understanding what the Palestinian people live through." The tours offered through Bright Stars of Bethlehem and their friends are designed to give a first-hand experience to life on the "other side" of the wall. They are also centered on meeting Palestinian people, building relationships and breaking down barriers. During their most recent trip in June of 2011, Baumgardner recalls several members of her tour group saying the trip wasn't what they expected. "One participant had experienced an Israeli led trip in the past and commented that she 'didn't see any of this when I went before and I didn't meet any of these people.' It's so important to become attached to the living stones. You have to go there and you have to see." Van Overbeke compares it to Jesus' invitation to come and see! "Jesus invites us to come and see with our eyes and hear with our ears and experience him today. To meet people is the key and the only way you are going to do that is to go there and hang out. Go walk the streets. Go talk to the person selling you falafel at the corner. Start conversations with shopkeepers, children and students." If you're ready to come and see, it's not too late to join one of the many trips scheduled in the coming months. See our trip listing in this issue of Constellations or the event calendar on our website. Come see what God is doing now in the Holy Land!

		Photos needed for a virtual trip to the Holy Land Send us your favorite photos from a trip to the Holy Land and we’ll post the pics in a special album on our Facebook page. Then, everyone can (virtually) experience this ancient land and see the Bright Stars ministries in action! Email photos to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it with your name and a caption.

		Four easy ways to support Bright Stars Forward this enewsletter to your friends and encourage them to subscribe. "Like" us on Facebook and YouTube. Pray for the Bright Stars of Bethlehem ministries. Donate safely online.

		New videos on the Bright Stars YouTube channel Through the eyes of a Palestinian Christian: 7 keys to understanding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb. A seven-part series. Thanks to our friends at Christ Presbyterian Church in Madison, WI, you can see Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb, pastor of Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem, and founder of Bright Stars of Bethlehem, presenting his perspective of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Learn about current conditions in Palestine and be inspired by the ministries of Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem, and their hopes for the future. This series of 7 short videos is recommended for small group discussions, personal and group Bible studies. More new clips to view, like and share! Empowerment and the Dar al-Kalima College in Bethlehem (2:05) by Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb. The future (1:06) by Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb Hope is what we do today (1:16) by Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb

		Upcoming events 13 September, 2011: BSB Northern Illinois Area Reps at Prince of Peace Lutheran in Freeport, IL13 September, 2011: BSB Vice President Beth Nelson Chase at Midland Presbyterian, Midland, MI16 September, 2011: Rev. Mitri Raheb presenting at IN-KY WELCA Synod Convention, Ft. Wayne, IN17 September, 2011: Rev. Mitri Raheb presenting "Forgotten People" at Life Bridge conference, Ft. Wayne, IN 18 September, 2011: Rev. Mitri Raheb preaching at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, San Francisco, CA18 September, 2011: Rev. Mitri Raheb and BSB Vice President Beth Nelson Chase at Gala Palestinian Festival, Grace Lutheran Church, Palo Alto, CA, benefitting BSB and Dar al-Kalima College20 September, 2011: Rev. Mitri Raheb presenting "Pottery, Painting and Palestine," 6:30 PM United Church of Christ, Ft. Wayne, IN21 September, 2011: Rev. Mitri Raheb presenting at convocation, 11:00 AM, Concordia Theological Seminary, Ft. Wayne21-22 September, 2011: Board of Directors meeting, Ft. Wayne, IN 22-23 September, 2011: Annual Bright Stars of Bethlehem Area Reps meeting, Ft. Wayne, IN 22 September, 2011: Gala Reception, 7:00-9:00 PM, Grand Wayne Convention Center, Ft. Wayne, IN26 September, 2011: BSB Vice President Beth Nelson Chase presenting at Odyssey Networks, New York, NY 8 October, 2011: BSB Vice President Beth Nelson Chase presenting at 10:00 AM, East McKeesport, PA3-4 December, 2011: Bethlehem ADVENTure fundraiser at Sabbath Center, 22782 Short Road, Lanark, IL4 December, 2011: 7:30 p.m., On Our Way to Bethlehem: Lessons and Carols for Advent fundraising concert, Augustana Lutheran Church, 5000 East Alameda, Denver, CO

		Upcoming trips sponsored by Bright Stars of Bethlehem staff, representatives and Board of Directors
		11-19 November, 2011: Bright Stars of Bethlehem trip to Holy Land Experience the Holy Land and go behind the scenes of the Bright Stars ministries. Hosted by Bright Stars Vice President Beth Nelson Chase, you’ll worship at Christmas Lutheran Church and spend time with Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb, pastor of the church and founder of Bright Stars ministries. See firsthand the mission campus and share our vision for the future. Tour famous sites in and around Bethlehem and Jerusalem. Travel north to Galilee along the Jordan River valley; then on to Cana, Nazareth and Caesarea. Many details make it a trip of a lifetime. Details here.

		2-10 December, 2011 Bright Stars sponsored Advent trip to the Holy Land Experience the land of Jesus’ birth while preparing for Jesus’ birth in this Bright Stars sponsored trip to the Holy Land during the season of Advent. Special host Gregg Smith, chairman of the board of Bright Stars, will take you behind the scenes of our mission work in Bethlehem, including the Dar al-Kalima school and college, the International Center and Wellness Center. You’ll worship at Christmas Lutheran Church and spend time with Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb, pastor of the church and founder of Bright Stars. Experience the Bright Stars ministries as well as historical sites in and around Bethlehem, Jerusalem, the Sea of Galilee and Nazareth. Download the special Bright Stars sponsored trip brochure here.

		6-14 January, 2012 Bright Stars sponsored servant trip to the Holy Land Join an exciting adventure to Bethlehem, Jerusalem and many of the Holy Land sites in this Bright Stars sponsored servant trip to the Holy Land. We will explore sites where Jesus was born, lived and preached. In addition, we will spend time at Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem, learn about their mission work and go behind the scenes at the Dar al-Kalima school and college, the International Center and the Wellness Center. Exclusive to this Bright Stars sponsored trip, we will perform a special servant event while in Bethlehem. If you want to experience the true work of this mission, this is the trip for you. Learn more here.

		16-25 February, 2012 Faith and Partnership in the Holy Land This trip is hosted by a Bright Stars area representative and led by David Dietrich, Presbytery of the Ohio Valley. Come with us to Bethlehem, the Galilee, and Jerusalem. Visit the Holy sites you have read about and seen in pictures. But more than that take this opportunity to learn the history and today's reality of life in the Holy Land. $3330 from Indianapolis (other cities available). Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it at 812-294-7010, or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it at Group Travel Directors 800-747-2255 ext 134. Download the brochure.

		Upcoming trips sponsored by friends of Bright Stars
		10-19 October, 2011: Pilgrimage to the Holy Land Led by Pr. Steve Quill and Christel Beldin. If interested in not only seeing Holy Land sites, but engaging with the living stones, this is for you. Nazareth, Tiberias, Dead Sea, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Wailing Wall, Mt. of Olives and more. Meet with Bishop Elias Chacour, Rev. Dr. Mitri Raheb and Christmas Lutheran congregation in Bethlehem, Pr. Mark Brown of Lutheran World Federation, tri-faith leaders working for just peace. $3515 from Phoenix or Houston; Egypt extension $1464. Contact Quill: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , 713-249-8470 or Beldin: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , 623-203-8881.

		10-26 October, 2011: Partnership pilgrimage to the Holy Land and Egypt Walk the streets of Jerusalem, sail the Sea of Galilee and swim in the Dead Sea, worship at Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem and visit other important historical sites. Then, embark on a 5-day tour of Egypt, including Cairo, Giza and a sail on the Nile. This could be a most wonderful time to experience the new freedoms in Egypt. However, safety is the main concern on our trip. If conditions are not stable in the fall, we will make an alternate plan. Details: www.pilgrimageholyland.blogspot.com.

		1-11 November, 2011: The Holy Land See historical sites plus today's living stones, led by Rev. Jack Mithelman. By visiting the land of the Bible, participants will gain a new, deeper appreciation of the Scriptures and a greater understanding of the forces at work in the Holy Land today. $3499 from Chicago. Contact Mithelman: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , 515-263-6095.

		December 27, 2011 - January 7, 2012 Christmas Pilgrimage Rev. Mary Albing of Lutheran Church of Christ the Redeemer, Minneapolis and Rev. Erik Strand of Edina Community Lutheran Church, Edina co-lead a special journey departing just after Christmas. Itinerary features a 3-night stay in Bethlehem for fellowship with the community at Christmas Lutheran Church. Special activities and visits will provide focus on issues of peace and justice. For details contact Rev. Albing, 612-926-5414, This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or Rev. Strand, 952-926-3808, This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . 6 spaces available with registration deadline September 21.

		5-20 January, 2012 In the Footsteps of Egeria: A Holy Land Pilgrimage to Places, Peoples and Peace Sponsored by Wartburg Theological Seminary and led by Professor Thomas Schattauer. Follow in the footsteps of Jesus, his disciples, and the many pilgrims since, on this study tour to the Holy Land. Visits with Christian, Muslim and Jewish peacemakers are included. $4195 from Chicago; other cities available. Open to seminary students and the general public. Contact: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , 563-580-8786, or Janet Tollund at Group Travel Directors 800-747-2255 ext 133; This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

		10-23 January, 2012 The World of the Bible: Ancient Sites and Current Struggles in the Holy Land Sponsored by Lutheran School of Theology and led by Professors Esther Menn and Barbara Rossing. This study tour is open to seminary students and the general public. Professors Menn and Rossing are experts in Old and New Testament theology respectively, and both have extensive experience in leading study tours to the Holy Land. $3599 from Chicago; other cities available. Only a few spaces remain. Contact: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it at Group Travel Directors 800-747-2255 ext 133.

		07-17 February, 2012 In the Footsteps of Jesus Led by the Rev. Robert Hutson, Christ the Lord Lutheran Church. This tour includes visits to the Galilee, Capernaum, Megiddo, Dead Sea, Hebron, Bethlehem, Galilee, Dead Sea, Bethlehem and Jerusalem. Highlights on this tour include visits with Christians in the Holy Land and visits to sacred sites like Palm Sunday Road, Via Dolorosa, Church of the Nativity, and Church of the Holy Sepulchre. $3540 from Phoenix (other cities available). Contact Rev. Hutson: 480-82-5024.

		10-19 March, 2012 The Holy Land Your pastoral leader will be Ron Rude from Lutheran Campus Ministry ELCA, University of Arizona. LCM students and other interested travelers will visit Nazareth, Mt. Carmel, Capernaum, Galilee, Jericho, Bethlehem and Jerusalem. There is a volunteer work project available. $3215 from Phoenix (other cities available). Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it 520-623-7575; or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it at Group Travel Directors, 800-7474, 2555, Ext. 134.

		6-20 June, 2012 Holy Land Study Tour Sponsored by Concordia University Seward, NE, and led by Professor Mark Meehl. Professor Meehl is a seasoned Holy Land study tour leader who spent 2 and 1/2 years living in Jerusalem serving as Program Director for the Albright Institute of Archaeological Research. $4250 from Lincoln, NE; other cities available. Contact: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , 402-643-7301, or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it at Group Travel Directors 800-747-2255 ext 133.

		1 - 12 November, 2012 Holy Land and Jordan With an optional Egypt extension. Hosted by Pr. Nick Doversberger, Zoar Evangelical Lutheran Church. Travel as a pilgrim to the lands of the Bible. You will visit ancient stones as you walk with a Christian guide among the sites connected with Old Testaments stories. You will also encounter living stones as you meet with Christians who live out their faith in the land of the bible. Galilee, Megiddo, Capernaum, Dead Sea, Jericho, Wadi Musa (Petra), Bethlehem and Jerusalem. $4030 from Portland, OR (other cities available). Contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it 503-266-4061 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it at Group Travel Directors 800-747-2255 ext 134.

Last Updated ( Tuesday, 06 March 2012 )

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