For Visitors and Anyone Curious: Frequently-Asked Questions
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What denomination do you belong to? A: We are an independent church that is not affiliated with any denomination. This does not make us any better than anyone else. It only gives us the liberty to serve God as He leads us.
Q: What exactly do you preach? A: We preach Jesus. He is the Son of God who gave His all to make forgiveness possible. At Bethany, you will hear about Him and what He has instructed us to do as believers in Him.
Q: When are your Sunday services? A: Sunday school is at 9:00 for all ages. Church service is at 10:15. Communion is the first Sunday of the month during the service, and is followed by a fellowship dinner. All are invited to attend. Check with our website for other times.
Q: What if I don’t know anyone? A: That’s okay. We believe it is our responsibility to make our visitors feel welcome. We will be thrilled to get to know you.
Q: Do I need to wear a suit to your church? A: At our church, you’ll find people who wear suits and people who wear blue jeans, and a lot in between. We are not interested in what you are wearing, but we are interested in getting to know you. You are important to God and to us.
Q: Is your church handicapped accessible? A: Yes.
Q: Do I have to give money to your church A: Friends and members of Bethany Chapel give faithfully and voluntarily to this ministry, as the Lord leads them. We do not pass an offering plate.
Q: Is there anything I need for the service? A: Mostly, just yourself. If you have a Bible, it will help to bring it along with you. If you don’t have a Bible, we have Bibles in the pew. You are welcome to take it, keep it as your own, and read it.
Q: Why is church so important for people like myself? A: Everybody has a soul. Just as our bodies need to be cared for, so do our souls. The Bible teaches us that because of sin, it has affected our ability to have a proper relationship with God. The Bible is food for the human soul. It gives us instruction for life. It gives to us God’s will for mankind and what is required of man. It teaches us how a man can be right with God and have eternal life. It teaches us why Christ had to solve our sin problem, and why we can never solve it ourselves. A local church was to be a pillar and a ground of Truth. (1 Timothy 3:15) Simply put, we are to be one place where all people can hear truth and be encouraged week by week in our relationship with God. Jesus is our answer. The Bible is our instruction. The church is the body/team.
A FEW MORE THINGS TO CONSIDER:
We live in a world that is moving faster than ever. Instant information, instant entertainment, and instant shopping. In our busy lives, why should I come to church?
At Bethany Chapel, we take time every week to slow down and worship our Creator, to learn more about Him, and to grow in Him. We need time to fix our eyes on Jesus as the “Author” (source) and “Finisher” (fulfillment) of our faith - Heb. 12:1-2.
Why can’t I just do this online? Why bother to come to a building together?
There are many great online sites, and a lot of churches have their own webpage, as we do, where they post sermons. Online sermons can be great! They have their purpose, for those who cannot leave their home, or for when you have to miss some Sunday services. Or, sometimes you can invite a friend to listen to a sermon online. We need the teaching.
So, why gather together in one place?
Sometimes we need more. As mankind created in God’s image, we are designed to be in relationship with God and others. We need time to meet with each other, face to face, to learn about God and His Word. But it’s more than that. God tells us to love each other, give encouragement, teach each other, greet, and care for each other. We simply can’t do that by only listening to a sermon online.
Anything else to think about?
As our relationship with God is strengthened, our relationships with each other are strengthened, as well. That is why the Bible reminds us in Hebrews 10:24-25: “Let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”
WHAT ARE OUR MINISTRIES?
MINISTRIES
We have ministries for all ages. Our workers for children and youth are required to have both Act 34 and Act 151 clearances, and we maintain a two adult policy to ensure protection for our children. We invite your children and teens to come and join our children and youth ministries. Meetings and activities are announced monthly.
The Men’s Breakfast and Bible Study meet every Saturday morning. There are also ladies’ Bible studies, Sunday School classes for all ages, and one-on-one discipleship, as well as various other ministries designed to help us grow in the Christian life, such as missions, community outreach, youth camp, and retreats for all ages.
God has given each and every person a gift that is to be used to serve Him. We are each part of Christ’s body, with every member serving important functions. We need to be able to receive help, as well as help others. At Bethany Chapel, there are many ministries available to use your talents for the Lord’s service.
We invite you to come and grow with us!
If you have questions about anything, or want more information, contact our pastor, Brian King, at 724-762-6881 or see our website at Bethany-chapel.com.