Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Brooklyn, NY got its hopes raised but then dashed

 Rev. Dr. Norm David reports that Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Brooklyn, NY got its hopes raised but then dashed when Bishop Robert Rimbo of Metropolitan New York Synod / ELCA promised to meet with him to discuss the Bethlehem property issue then broke that promise. 

        The opportunity arose when the Synod at its annual assembly in May adopted unanimously a resolution to pursue "a year of forgiveness and healing" after a lot of aggravation this past year.  One such aggrieved party is Bethlehem, whose property near the heart of the city at the intersection of Flatbush and Atlantic Avenues the Synod seized and shuttered in January 2009.  Bethlehem contends this action was illegal and actively seeks its return. Rev. David, who attended the assembly as a guest, took Bishop Rimbo aside, expressed his gratitude for the resolution, and asked if they could meet.  Bp. Rimbo said that if Rev. David would send him a letter stating what he'd like to discuss, the bishop would meet with him.

        Rev. David wrote the letter stating the Bethlehem concerns.  Bishop Rimbo responded that there was no "Bethlehem issue" and that "all issues brought forth in your letter have been resolved by the Courts of New York State and by the Church."  Rev. David wrote back to say "You know as well as I that nothing has been settled and that, if leaders of our respective entitities fail to reach some kind of accord, we of Bethlehem will be forced to contest all that you claim in all possible forums."

        Rev. David referred Bishop Rimbo to the words of Christ in Matthew 18:15-17 and 5:24-26 and urged him to reconsider and appoint the meeting.  In the meantime, Bethlehem's fundraising drive continues for its anticipated lawsuit.  The amount pledged is $62,000 at present but the legal fees could cost two or three times that, he reports.  Those who wish to contribute may learn more atwww.bethlehembrooklyn.org.  For those who can give $3,000 or more over a 3 year period, Bethlehem will enter into a nonrecourse loan arrangement.  All checks should be made payable to "Eastern Star LLC" and sent to 597 Belmont Street, Belmont, MA  02478-4420.

 

With best regards,

 

Rev. Dr. Norm David, Senior Pastor

Bethlehem Ev. Lutheran Church, Brooklyn NY