Frequent Questions

 

Though our location may be slightly off the beaten path, Bethlehem has thrived in the same spot for 158 years because of its body of members. Each successive generation has looked to the future, acting as servants to determine how to best minister to the community. Today, we are direct beneficiaries of the selfless giving and vision of our predecessors at BUMC. We are blessed with a committed and gifted congregation, devoted staff members, abundant ministries, excellent preschool program, modern family life facility and the same commitment of those original trustees of 1848 . . . a commitment to the future.

 

Sunday Services are held in the Sanctuary at 8:15 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. These services are similar and traditional in format, although different soloists and choirs provide the music leadership. Coffee and snack fellowship is held in the Gathering Space immediately after early church and after Sunday School.

 

Dress at Bethlehem is casual, however, you will see a variety--everything from suits and dresses to sport shorts, jeans and even shorts during the summer months.

 

Regularly scheduled worship services are one hour in length.

 

Bethlehem has Sunday School classes for all ages from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Children ages three through twelfth grade meet in various classrooms, and there are more than ten different adult classes with varying age groups and study topics. A list of classes is available at the information desk.

 

Parking is available on both the north and south sides of the church property. There are spaces reserved for guests on the south side, and handicapped parking is behind the main sanctuary building by the playground. An elevator is located in the Family Life Center foyer for access to the sanctuary and adult classrooms. From the Welcome & Information Center in the main sanctuary area, you will be directed to church classrooms and activities.

 

Our Andrew Ministers are dedicated to a ministry of hospitality. Each Sunday, Andrew Ministers try to greet each guest and help by answering questions and giving directions to activities and classrooms. During services, if desired, guest may sign the friendship pad that is passed.

 

We affirm the presence of children in worship. During each Sunday Service, children are called to the front of the sanctuary for a children’s message, then those who desire may leave the service to attend Mustard Seeds, a program for children age 3 years through second grade. During the singing of the last hymn in worship, the Mustard Seeds teacher escorts the children back to the sanctuary to re-join their parents.

 

Yes, a nursery is provided in the Family Life Center for infants through two year olds. The nursery is open for all Sunday morning activities, and as needed for other church events.

 

At Sunday services, you may speak with one of our pastors after services, or indicate your interest by marking “wish to join” on the registration pad. Or, during the week, contact the church office to discuss membership with the pastoral staff. You and a pastor will discuss membership, and a Sunday will be chosen for you and your family to come forward at the end of a worship service to officially join the congregation at Bethlehem. You may also join on any sunday by comming down front during the Hymn of Commitment.

 

Yes- the United Methodist Communion table is an “open table” for all those who desire to lead a Christian life, regardless of age or church affiliation. Holy Communion is held on the first Sunday of every month and other special occasions throughout the church year.

 

The United Methodist Church is a worldwide Christian denomination of more than ten million members. We believe in: putting faith and love into action; taking an active stance in society; that Christian faith is grounded in the love and grace of God, experienced through Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit; and that the mission of the United Methodist Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ. We are all individuals, sharing a faith in Jesus Christ, but encouraged to think for ourselves so we don’t necessarily share the same opinions about every faith issue or social concern. For more about the social principles and mission activities of the United Methodist Church, see www.umc.org.

 

Yes- Under the direction of the youth director, youth (sixth through twelfth grade) have regular weekly fellowship, summer mission trips, youth choir, Bible Study groups and more. For more information, visit the youth website. www.bethlehemyouth.net

 

Bethlehem has a fully licensed, highly accredited Mother’s Day Out and pre-school program. Members and non-members are welcome. Contact the preschool program director through the church office for more information.