Worship at Bethany
On September 19, Bethany moves to a new schedule with three different worship services on Sunday mornings. In the 8:00 a.m. traditional service, we will celebrate Word and Sacrament with a liturgical format from Evangelical Lutheran Worship, the 2006 guide to worship of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (of which Bethany is a member). The 9:30 a.m. family service speaks to children and families through song, prayer, scripture, message, and offering, and leads seamlessly into our education time. The 11:00 a.m. contemplative service of Holy Communion provides a quieter and more intimate setting for worship, featuring music from the Taize community and Holden Village.
Music as Worship
The music program strives to be diverse, both in music and purpose. We want to deepen faith through music (both in the participants and congregation) and present an opportunity to lift up God's word and mystery. We also desire to provide a better understanding of the musical language, provide tools to become a better singer or instrumentalist, and be part of a caring group of Christians. If you enjoy music, there's a place for you at Bethany.
- Bethany Choir
- As the largest choir, this group performs traditional classical anthems and world and gospel music. Rehearsals are Wednesday evenings during the school year at 7:15 p.m. The Bethany Choir sings its offerings at the 8:00 a.m. traditional worship service.
- Praise Singers
- This group offers contemporary Christian, gospel and world music, as well as tunes from musicals. Rehearsals are Monday evenings during the school year at 7:15 p.m. The Praise Singers sing their offerings at the 9:30 a.m. family worship service.
- Bethany Bells
- Members of this group learn basic ringing and music-reading skills and prepare a few pieces to present on occasional Sundays throughout the year. All levels of musical background are welcome. The Bells meet on the second Thursday of each month at 10:00 a.m.
- Instrumentalists
- Many different musicians participate in worship. Bethany Brass is a resident brass group which performs on festival days and other scheduled dates.
- Young Voices
- Our youth have many opportunities to participate in music and drama activities throughout the year. Programs are presented during Easter, Christmas and other times.
- Summer Music
- Many Bethany members share musical offerings to the Lord as soloists and in ensembles during the summer months.
Lay Assistants in Worship
Many folks contribute to make our worship services run smoothly each week. Among these are countless volunteers who serve as assisting ministers, ushers, greeters, communion assistants, and acolytes. New volunteers are always welcome, and training is provided regularly. The lay assistants schedule is posted in the Calendar section of this web site.
Worship Ministry Team
The Worship Ministry Team meets monthly to create a spirit-filled, vibrant Sunday morning worship at Bethany. We talk about music, liturgy, sound systems, welcoming visitors, special Sunday events, creating a beautiful worship space, and much more. We welcome anyone who wants to be part of a fun, creative group that is dedicated to carrying out Bethany's mission of fostering "spiritual growth that amazes."
