BETHEL’S MINISTRIES LAUNCH!

​BETHEL’S MINISTRIES LAUNCH!

Most of Bethel’s annual ministries have gotten began again in the last weeks. Here is some initial good news:
  Dove Taekwondo is bursting at the seams. 63 children are enrolled. The Little Doves class, for the youngest children, has 20 in a class ideally suited for 15. Inquiries are still coming in from prospective participants.
  The GEMS Girls’ club had 37 girls on their first night (Wednesday). They expected 26-28 to show up. God is entrusting us with more precious lives than we could have imagined, and the GEMS need about three more counselors. Viola Dueck, the GEMS head counselor says, “I know God has great things in store for us this year.” If you want to be part of this beautiful, burgeoning ministry please contact Viola.
  45-50 kids showed up for the first Alpha Youth session—once again more than anyone had anticipated. Our Youth Director Melanie Wright says that several Bethel youth brought friends to the meeting. Small group discussions were lively. This great beginning promises good things for the youth program this year.
  Our Oasis Women’s Bible study has met twice now. Many new Bethel members who joined Oasis last year returned, and many women from other churches also came. One new member was an Alpha participant from last year who is exploring the Christian Faith. Director Laurie Veenstra says that she is trusting God for His leading and blessing this year!
  Several “not-yet” or new Christians have signed up for ALPHA, as well as a few Bethelites who just want a refresher.
  Our ministry for children has launched with a new name, “Bethel Kids,” and a new format. This has come through the inspiration and effort of our Children’s Director Thelmè Van Heerden.
  The Women’s Ministry is planning a retreat, called “Spiritual Boot camp” and we are anticipating a revitalized Men’s Ministry this church season.
  ESL will have a newer, smaller more personal look—a creative adaptation of the ministry in light of a decline in the need for ESL services.
  Food Bank has begun to alleviate the needs of those less financially privileged, once again.
  Our Cadet’s boys’ club will get its start this week.
  Several of our ministries never took a break for the summer, and they are still going strong. These include our Healing Prayer Ministry, our Intercessory Prayer Ministry, and our Monday and Wednesday morning prayer groups.
  All of these signs of life are encouraging. I am deeply appreciative of the many, many volunteers who serve in these ministries. Our prayer is that God will bless these ministries and use them to help us ‘become like Christ and share Him with others”. –Pastor Tom

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