ABOUT OUR CHURCH

About our name of Bethesda Lutheran:  The Pool of Bethesda in Jerusalem was known as a place where those needing Mercy gathered and a place of Healing. In the tradition of our namesake, we see ourselves gathering together as people needing Mercy and gathering together at the Healing Waters of Bethesda.  We are called to respond to the pleas of Mercy in our Congregation, our Community and our World.     

Our congregation is a reflection of our community -- members who have families going back 120 years, members and friends from other communities moving here, and seasonal members, friends and visitors swelling our ranks in the summer.  YOU are welcome here.

Founded in 1893 by Norwegian Immigrants our church was called the Bayfield Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church.  In 1909 our name was changed to “Bethesda Norwegian Lutheran Free Church” of Bayfield, Wis.  Norwegian services were discontinued in the 30’s and American language was spoken.  In 1962 Bethesda Lutheran joined the American Lutheran Church.  Today Bethesda Lutheran is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Bethesda is located in Bayfield, WI., on the shores of beautiful Lake Superior.  Bayfield is a gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.  When you visit Bayfield, you are welcome here.  http://bayfield.org/

We are a Parish with two congregations:  Immanuel Lutheran, Cornucopia and Bethesda Lutheran, Bayfield.  Each congregation is autonomous in regard to programming and properties, and have separate councils.  Common elements are to share our pastor, staff support and learning and youth activities.