Here at Bethel, we have two services on
Sundays to encourage different styles of worship.
**As of now we are continuing one service at 9:30am.**
Our 8:30am service has a traditional atmosphere. We are currently using liturgy from the Evangelical Lutheran Worship (ELW). We also regularly sing hymns from the ELW or the With One Voice (WOV) hymnals.
Our 11:00am service has a more contemporary and relaxed atmosphere. We will still sing some hymns, but you will find more contemporary songs in the mix during worship.
Summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day): During the summer, we have one worship service at 9:00am. This service is a mix between the traditional and contemporary services.
Our worship services may incorporate the following components:
Our scripture readings are based on the Lectionary used by ELCA churches worldwide. A volunteer will read from the Old Testament, a Psalm, and the New Testament. Our Pastor will then read the Gospel text.
Children’s Sermons. We regularly have a children’s sermon during our worship. This is a time for the children to come and sit on the altar for a time with Pastor (or a volunteer) to hear the gospel in a new way that relates to the children where they are.
Communion. Communion is served at the 8:30am service on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Sunday of the month and during the 11:00am service during the 2nd, 4th and 5th Sunday of the month. We practice open communion, meaning you do not have to be a member of Bethel to receive communion.
Confession. During our worship services, there is a time for a quiet confession with the words of forgiveness spoken over the congregation. This is a reminder of God’s love and forgiveness for each of us.
Statements of Faith. We regularly state our faith as found in the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) or the Apostle’s or Nicene Creeds, which are both statements of faith from the early church.
Offering. We do have a time of special music and an offering. Offering plates are passed through the pews. We ask that you give during this time if you feel led to in your heart, but don’t feel obligated to give as a visitor to our congregation. We also have ways to give electronically, please see our Giving Page.
Benediction. To end the service, our Pastor says a Benediction (a blessing) and then will say, “Go in Peace, Serve the Lord.” The response of the congregation is, “Thanks be to God.”
