The Brick Podcast

Getting to Know LEA Award Recipient Katie Kane

In this episode of The Brick, Pastor Ben sits down with Bethany’s Kindergarten teacher, Katie Kane, who recently received the LEA 2026 Outstanding New Lutheran Early Childhood Teacher Award. Katie will be recognized during worship on Sunday, May 10. In this conversation, she shares more about her story, including what led her into teaching, how God brought her to Bethany, and what makes Bethany such a special place for children, families, and staff. This episode is a joyful celebration of faithful Lutheran education, the blessing of excellent teachers, and the ways God continues to work through Bethany Lutheran Church and School

S2_Episode 5: "The Blessings of Stephen Ministry"

In this episode of The Brick, Pastor Ben sits down with Shelley Krisko for an honest and hope-filled conversation about faith, suffering, and care within the body of Christ. Shelley shares her personal faith journey and speaks transparently about a challenging season in her life—one in which Bethany’s Stephen Ministry played a vital role in walking alongside her with Christ-centered care. Now serving as a Stephen Minister herself, Shelley reflects on what it means to both receive and offer one-on-one spiritual encouragement. Her story is a powerful reminder that God often meets us through the presence of others—and that even seasons of struggle can become opportunities to serve and bless those around us. If you’re walking through a difficult time, wondering if it’s okay to ask for help, or sensing that God may be calling you to serve others as a spiritual encourager, this episode is for you. Listen, be encouraged, and be reminded: you don’t have to walk alone.

Episode 4-S2-"Enduring Suffering" with Mark Thomay

In this episode of The Brick, Pastor Ben Vogel sits down with long-time Bethany member, Mark Thomay, to reflect on a pivotal season of his life. Back in 2006, Mark faced a major health challenge that put his life on hold for six months. Enduring constant pain, he struggled with the lessons God was teaching him in the midst of suffering. Looking back now, Mark shares how God used that difficult time—and other challenges since—to deepen his reliance on Scripture as a constant source of comfort and hope. He also speaks about the strength and love he found in his Bethany church family, whom he truly considers his “home.” Above all, Mark's story is really about a Savior who sustained a sinner through a challenging season and continues to care for him and those he loves today!

S2_Episode 3_Fifty Years Later_ A Conversation with Pastor Paul Hoffman

In this special episode of The Brick, Pastor Ben Vogel sits down with Pastor Paul Hoffman to celebrate his remarkable milestone—fifty years of ministry in the Lutheran Church. Together, they reflect on the joys, challenges, and lessons learned over the decades. Pastor Hoffman shares heartfelt stories, enduring insights, and the deep sense of calling that has shaped his life in service to Christ and His Church. This episode also looks forward, offering encouragement to the next generation of pastors and church workers. Whether you're a seasoned servant or just beginning to consider ministry, this is a conversation rich with wisdom and hope.

S2-Episode 2-A Conversation with Future Church Workers-Matt Krisko_Samantha Vogel

In this episode of The Brick, Pastor Ben Vogel sits down with two young adults preparing to dedicate their lives to ministry. Matt Krisko is heading to Concordia University, St. Paul, to begin the pre-seminary program, and Samantha Vogel is pursuing a double major in Vocal Music and Music Education at Concordia University, Nebraska. Together, they reflect on the people, experiences, and moments that led them to consider full-time church work. Pastor Ben also invites them to share honest encouragements for others who may be discerning a similar path.