“Take & eat; this is my body given for you…This cup is the new covenant in my blood shed for you & for all people for the forgiveness of sin.” We hear these words during the sacrament of Holy Communion practiced weekly at Bethany as we gather together. This sacred meal is a life-giving gift offered to us.

January is recognized as National Blood Donor Month. Bethany offers its space several times a year to host blood drives. Donated blood helps people who have had injuries or those with bleeding during surgery. There are people with genetic blood disorders who rely on blood donations as well as those with cancer. Here are a few statistics from Vitalant: Every day in the U.S. patients in a variety of settings (hospital, surgery centers, emergency centers) need approximately 29,000 units of red blood cells, 5,000 units of platelets and 6,500 units of plasma. Every two seconds someone needs blood, and one unit of blood can assist up to three people. These statistics are overwhelming to me. Testimonies from loved ones & survivors touch the heart. Clearly donating blood saves lives, and blood centers are always in need of donors. By giving blood, donors have benefits in the altruistic sense of doing something for others. Some studies have shown that regular blood donors decrease their blood pressure and the risk for a heart attack. There are so many reasons to donate if you are able. Giving the gift of life-saving blood is certainly a way of showing love for our neighbor. Our next blood drive here at Bethany will be February 21 in the Fellowship Hall from 8:30am – 12:30pm. To sign up or for more information please visit www.vitalant.org.

Peace,
Janet, Director of Pastoral Care