Spiritual Growth

The Christian faith is an ongoing journey of discovery, challenge, reflection, and action. At Bethany, we seek to provide opportunities to deepen one’s understanding of the faith and foster spiritual nurture and growth. We strive to honor all questions and value everyone’s own personal faith-journey. We do not pretend to have all the answers, but we desire to be in open, honest dialogue and conversation about issues faith and life. As such, we offer regular opportunities for spiritual growth for all ages.

Adult Learning Hour

Throughout the academic year (September – May), Bethany offers a Sunday morning adult learning hour at 8:45 a.m. in the Upper Fellowship Room. First and foremost, this class serves as a time to deepen our understanding of scripture as we explore the Bible. Though Bible study is our primary focus, we also study theology, contemporary ethical issues, elements of worship and liturgy, spiritual practices, and topics offered up by participants. Join us at anytime throughout the year. No experience necessary. All are welcome!

Seasonal Planning Team

How do the biblical texts and themes of the church season shape our worship? How can our worship reflect the narrative of Christ Jesus? What ways can the worship space help us live into the Jesus story? These are just some of the questions the Seasonal Planning Team wrestles with as we envision and plan our seasonal worship (Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost). At various times throughout the year, we offer learning and planning sessions to enable all to have a hand in planning our communal worship. Artists, poets, musicians, textile experts, active imaginations, children, and liturgy nuts are always welcome!

Confirmation/Affirmation of Baptism

Affirmation of Baptism (otherwise known as “confirmation”) is the culmination of an extensive education journey or catechesis in the basic tenets of the Christian faith. The Affirmation of Baptism rite is a public witness and response to God’s promises given in the gift of holy baptism. The education journey leading to one’s confirmation of faith for middle school age youth and young adults typically happens over the span of two years. The pastor at Bethany will work with each student and design the appropriate schedule to cover the material. If you have questions about confirmation classes, please contact the pastor.

First Communion

All are welcome to Christ’s table at Bethany! With our practice of an open table, the decision about when children ought to receive their first communion is made primarily by each family conversation with the pastor. Children may be ready and eager to participate at different ages. No matter when one first receives communion, a class in communion instruction is offered for all children in first grade during the season of Lent. Maundy Thursday worship during Holy Week is the culmination of this process as the children help lead our worship. For some children, Maundy Thursday will be their first communion as well. For others, the class will serve as a deepening of their understanding of the sacrament. Parents and guardians are encouraged to speak with the pastor about these issues.

Sunday School

At this time, Bethany is unable to offer Sunday school for young children. Our goal is grow in our children’s ministry in the next few years so that we can provide this important aspect of faith formation. With that said, our Sunday morning worship seeks to be child-friendly inviting full participation from all ages (including leadership roles)! Also, throughout the year, we seek to offer intergenerational learning opportunities where children are welcome.