bethel serves

Bethel pulled it off.  On Wednesday of this week, fifty to sixty delegates representing Christian Reformed churches ranging from Red Deer to Fort McMurray descended upon Bethel Church for a 27-hour marathon-meeting.  As the host church of this biannual gathering called “Classis” (from a Latin word meaning “ships sailing together in a fleet”) it was our job to make sure tables were set up, sound and media techs were on hand, and snacks and meals were served at regular intervals.  It was a huge undertaking.
            But Bethel displayed a beautiful spirit of servanthood by rising to the challenge and doing so with excellence.  Randall Huisman recruited and coordinated the efforts of approximately 20 volunteers.  (Many of these people were present throughout the duration of the event.)  Jenny Hofstede did a superb job of giving leadership to the team of the kitchen helpers who made mealtimes so enjoyable.
            The pastors, elders, deacons, and ministry representatives who came to the gathering were appreciative.  Many commented on how smoothly things flowed and on the quality of the food.  I was especially pleased when one person said, “I enjoy being here,” because I realized he was commenting on the spirit in which people were being served, not just on how the logistics of the meeting were handled.  Others delegates indicated that they sensed a certain atmosphere at Bethel - they discerned that active and joyful ministry was happening here.
           Way to go Bethel!  Let’s keep depending on the Lord to use us in big and little ways to touch the lives of others.                                                                            --Pastor Tom

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