Outreach

“Share with the Lord’s people in need. Practice hospitality.” –Romans 12:13

As a people of faith, we believe we are called to look beyond ourselves and to reach out to our community and world. Below are some of the ways God has blessed us to be a blessing.

Reconciling in Christ (RIC)

Bethany has been an RIC congregation since 2001, welcoming people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Several members of Bethany are active in deepening this commitment to welcome through active participation in Lutherans Concerned/North America and the Joint Committee for Inclusivity of the Minneapolis and Saint Paul Area Synods. Bethany strives to be a welcoming place for all of God’s children – no exceptions!

“Mission of the Month”

Throughout the year, our Community Presence Team focuses on a different “mission” each month to help spread awareness within our congregation about a variety of social justice issues and missional opportunities. We hope to grow together through our serving and giving while seeking to impact both the local and global communities. Our missions include but are not limited to the following: Community Emergency Services, Clean Water Initiative, Centro de Trabajadores Unidos in Lucha (Center for Workers United in Struggle), Hunger Issues, Lutheran Disaster Relief, Reconciling in Christ (RIC) and Lutherans Concerned/North America, Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries, and Lutheran Social Services.

Community-Centered Events

Thanksgiving Meal: Each year we serve a free meal the Sunday before Thanksgiving Day. The meal is hosted by the congregation and is for those who may be struggling to get enough to eat during this time of year or are looking to share a Thanksgiving-like dinner in a warm, welcoming environment. The meal typically begins at 11:30 am following that Sunday’s worship service.

CHILD Giving Tree: In partnership with Creative Hours In Learning Development (CHILD), members of our congregation help provide items such as gloves, winter boots, and other winter necessities for children in need during the holiday season.

Franklin Frolic: During this winter day, businesses along E Franklin Avenue open their doors for community interaction. In the past, Bethany has participated in this event by serving cookies and hot cider and hosting games for children.

Partners

Our building serves as a space to several local groups for meetings and other events during the week. See the “Partners” tab on the website for additional information.