Letter from the Pastors

We are delighted that you desire more information on Bethany—who we are and what we are about.

We believe that God created us to be in a loving and purpose filled relationship with Him and others. Bethany is a PLACE where this relationship is experienced and where people gather to be encouraged and strengthened in their life’s journey. It is in this relationship that we have a secure PLACE in the world and the assurance of His eternal presence. Bethany is also a BASE from which we launch into our homes, community, and the world to serve others.

At Bethany Lutheran Church we are dedicated to the truth that Jesus Christ gives us true purpose in life. Following Him gives us real joy, even in the face of serious difficulties that we all face. We also believe that God wants us to be connected to a worshipping and serving community. To that end, we are bold to invite you and your friends to a one-day class called “Bethany 101.”

Child care will be provided and a light lunch will be served to all in attendance.

It will be a time of intensive study of Biblical truths. At the end of that time, you can decide for yourself if Jesus Christ and the purpose He gives us is the Key to joy-filled living. You can then join our Bethany family, or you can decide on some other course of action.

If you would like to enroll in one of the classes, please email us your information and we will let you know when the next class will be held.

Sincerely in Christ,

Pastor Bill Knippa and Pastor Kevin Lentz

Step 1: Attending Bethany 101 Class 

Our Bethany 101 class series is designed for people who are not familiar with the Lutheran Church. This is a prerequisite class for those interested in becoming a member of Bethany who do not have a previous Lutheran background. The first portion covers basic Christian beliefs; next the discussion covers the Lutheran faith. We offer a Saturday Bethany 101 classes periodically throughout the year. Check with the church office for dates.

Step 2: Orientation Classes

Orientation Class is the class designed for those interested in transferring their Lutheran membership to Bethany, those joining under “Reaffirmation of Faith” if their Lutheran membership is no longer active or for those who have completed a Bethany 101 class series. Discover the many opportunities for study and fellowship at Bethany and how to use your talents and interests. This two-hour class series meets periodically on Sunday mornings at 8:00 AM. Please note that if you wish to transfer your Lutheran membership, we can request a transfer from your previous church. You may indicate this on the “Connecting to Bethany” card located in the worship bulletin or call the church office.

Step 3: Reception of New Members

This ceremony for reception of new members is during the 11:00 service following the second Orientation session, and provides you the opportunity to confirm your belief in Jesus and your intention to worship and serve at Bethany.

Special Note: Baptized children become members of Bethany when their parents join. Parents of unbaptized child(ren) should attend the Pre-baptism class on the first Saturday of each month and make arrangements to have their child(ren) baptized.

Step 4: Worship at Bethany

Continue to attend weekly worship at Bethany and participate in the many opportunities available.

Baptism

On the first Saturday of every month, one of the pastors leads a pre-baptism class. These are held in the church office at 10 AM. At the class, we teach our beliefs on baptism as well as offer the opportunity to schedule your child’s baptism. The class is about 30-45 minutes in length. We ask that all parents wanting to have their children baptized at Bethany attend the class, but it is not necessary for parents to attend the class more than one time.

We can help you schedule your private or public baptism by contacting Cindy McCormick at the church office.   Listed below is the schedule for the public baptism (during the worship services): 1st Sunday: 11 AM service; 2nd Sunday: 9:30 AM service; 3rd and other Sundays: 8 AM service.

First Communion

Bethany instructs 5th and 6th graders on the beliefs, traditions and practices of Holy Communion in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. These classes, taught by the Pastors, are held during the Lenten weeks following Ash Wednesday and ending on Palm Sunday. The class will receive their First Communion during the 11 AM service on Palm Sunday. For youth 7th grade and older, we offer a First Communion Instruction Class at various times. All First Communion classes are attended by both children and their parents.

Confirmation

Bethany offers a two year program of instruction for Youth Confirmation. Youth are eligible to begin Confirmation instruction beginning in the 9th grade. This program is held on Wednesday evenings from September to May. Second year students are confirmed the first Sunday in May. The Confirmation program includes weekly worship services, pastoral teaching and small group meetings with adult leaders. Youth also participate in two Confirmation retreats and several service projects led by Minister of Youth and Education, Landon Becker. Participation as an acolyte at worship services is a requirement for Confirmation students. Please contact Landon Becker, Minister of Youth and Education for more information.