Bethany Presbyterian Church preaches the truth of Jesus Christ
and welcomes all who seek to know Him. We are here to...
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20. Bethany’s worship service, like the Sunday mornings we knew as children, has evolved quite a bit over the years, especially since Covid flipped the script on how people choose to worship. The care of our building, our Prayer Garden and Meadow and the continuation of our live stream program give us the option to worship wherever and whenever we like; in the comfort of our home, within the fellowship of our congregation or under the canopy of His creation.
Part of worship involves reading God’s Word, but reading words is not the same as studying them. Studying involves looking at every word, sounding it out if it's difficult to pronounce, using a dictionary, paying attention to its context, using a Google search, maybe looking up a location on a map or trying to use a commentary. You can study on your own or with friends in fellowship! We can't possibly claim to know God unless we immerse ourselves in His word.
It's only a lamp if we open it up and let it shine its guiding light on our lives. Psalm 119:105
Where words fail, music speaks. Throughout Scripture, music is portrayed as a gift from God—used by His people to worship, to pray, and to proclaim His glory. From the psalms of David to the hymns of the early Church, song has always been a way for Christians to lift their hearts in praise and to experience the presence of the Holy Spirit in a deeply personal and communal way. Music unites the body of Christ. It transcends differences in age, culture, and background. Music teaches and heals. The lyrics of hymns and worship songs can embed Scripture in memory, helping believers internalize biblical truths. In moments of joy or sorrow, music can offer comfort, hope, and renewal.
Sunday School teaches children the foundational moral imperative of Christian love: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another.” (John 13: 34-35). Underpinning each Sunday School session is the message of God’s universal love for mankind and His expectation that as children of God, we shine the light of love upon one another.
Growing in Christ is not exclusively for the young. Sometimes it takes the example of youth to remind us that curiosity and eagerness to learn more about Him are evergreen. As any parent would know, our children are watching what we do. In the sanctuary or at home; in our quietest moments or when we are anxious or angry...do they see us turn to Christ?
Fellowship is an important theme in the Bible, and it is also an important part of our lives as Christians. Throughout scripture, we see examples of believers gathering to pray, share meals, and spread God’s love. When we support and participate in activities that bring our church family and community together, we are “ambassadors” for Christ, showing His love through action and service. Won’t you join us?
“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” (Acts 2:42).
God does not call the “able”; He makes “able” those He calls. Any amount of gift you have been given can be put to God’s purpose. We weren’t put here to live a long, happy, comfortable life for ourselves. God’s Kingdom is a community. He commands and purposes us to help and keep one another, whether through our talents, possessions or good fortune.
How can this small group of everyday pilgrims use the resources we have been given to serve the Lord’s ministry? How can you use your resources to serve the Lord and His people? Write a note to a congregant. Ask how you can help them. Donate items or donate your time. Offer a hug or take someone out for coffee. Pray with them if the Spirit moves you.