FAQs
Seek and you shall find! We want to make sure that you feel comfortable coming to Bethesda, so we've compiled our most frequently asked questions here to help you get the answers you're looking for. Feel free to contact our staff if you have other questions - we're happy to help!
FAQs
- Q.Where can I find the information about the proposed building expansion?
- A.
The updated information packet with Frequently Asked Questions is posted on our website HERE. If you have a problem with this link, you can find the document at: http://www.bethesdalutheran.org/documents/newsletters/building-expansion-proposal-and-faq.pdf
- Q.Who are the Lutheran Brethren?
- A.
Check out our synod website: Church of the Lutheran Brethren
- Q.How do you view Communion? Who is invited to participate?
- A.
All who confess their sins and trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness are invited to His Table. You do not have to be an official member of our congregation. All believers are welcome.
- Q.What about children participating in communion?
- A.
We believe that little children can know and love the Lord. However, Scripture indicates that those who receive communion must be able to "examine themselves" (1 Corinthians 11:27). One of the purposes of our Confirmation program is to enable young people to understand the Law and the Gospel and so become able to examine themselves before the Lord. In deference to this practice, we ask that children wait until Confirmation to receive the Lord's Supper.
Children are invited to take one of the Bible verses from the tray as God's special word to them at this service.
High school age young people (as well as adults) who have not been confirmed in our church but who confess Jesus Christ as Savior are welcome to receive communion.
- Q.What do you believe about Communion?
- A.
We believe in the real presence of Jesus Christ. Communion is not merely a symbolic action, but an event in which Jesus shares His body and blood with us (1 Corinthians 10:16). The bread and wine (Bethesda serves grape juice) do not change physically but are a means through which Jesus gives Himself to us spiritually and assures us of His forgiveness. All who confess this need for assurance and forgiveness and come to the supper with reverence are "worthy" to receive (1 Corinthians 11:27-29).
- Q.What is Bethesda's Mission Statement?
- A.
"Bethesda's Mission is to be an instrument of God's love through which our world will come to know Jesus as Savior and follow Him as devoted disciples"
