Bethlehem Lutheran Church celebrated the installation of the Rev. Doctor Art Puotinen  on February 6, 2005.  Prior to his calling to Bethlehem, he served at First Lutheran Church in Iron River, Michigan for two years and earlier in his career at Trinity Lutheran Church, Wilson Avenue, Chicago.  He received his B.A. degree from Augustana IL and his Master of Divinity degree from the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago.

His additional graduate study includes an M.A. and PhD in the History of Christianity from the University Chicago Divinity School and an MBA from Wake Forest University, North Carolina.

Prior to returning to parish ministry. Dr. Puotinen held top-level administrative positions in Lutheran higher education, including President of Grand View College in Iowa and more recently Provost and Professor of Religion at Finlandia University in Michigan.

He is a published writer and has served on board of directors of colleges, community organizations, and cultural groups.

With his many responsibilities, he has remained committed to community service.  As he says, "My ministry is noted for its out reach into the local community, larger Lutheran community and global mission."

Pastor Art has three daughters and five grandchildren.  His wife, Judy, a retired teacher and an accomplished weaver-fiber artist, passed away on September 30, 2009, after a four year struggle with pancreatic cancer. Pastor Art enjoys activities that enrich the body, mind and spirit such as the fine arts, fitness activities, and travel.