Welcome to our church!

We understand that visiting a new church can often be overwhelming, whether you’re new to the area, returning to your faith, or exploring spirituality for the first time. This page is here to help you understand what to expect when you join us for an in-church service. Mostly… know that you are welcome at Bethany Lutheran Church.

A Little About Us

Bethany is a family-oriented, small-town church founded in 1943.  We are very proud of the close relationships among our members and are blessed to worship together each week.

We have one service each Sunday starting at 9:00 AM, but sometimes we mix it up a bit for a joint service with our sister church, East Lemonweir, for Easter Sunday, or for our annual outdoor worship in Heritage Park in New Lisbon.

Our Worship

Lutherans are a “liturgical” bunch.  That means our worship has the same general outline used by Christians since the earliest days of the Church.  While there are variations each week, the general order is the same: we Gather (sing and pray together), hear the Word (Scripture readings and sermon), come to the Table (to receive Holy Communion), and are Sent (blessed to go into the world as disciples).  “Liturgy” means “the work of the people.”  There are no spectators in worship – all are participants.

Each service lasts about an hour in length.  The entire order of worship is laid out in the printed worship bulletin and is easy to follow.  Expect to be greeted upon entry to our sanctuary, and our center aisle can get a bit congested during the “passing of the peace” in the middle of the service.  But don’t worry, passing of the peace can be touchless if you wish.

Holy Communion is served at each service either “at the rail” (front altar), or continuous (walking up the center aisle).  Instructions will be provided at each service.

Traditionally, participation in Holy Communion at the Lord’s table is open to all who accept the Lord’s invitation and who trust and understand the words, “given and shed for you.”  That is, a person with a believing heart.

However, at Bethany we state, “All are welcome,” as an invitation to the Lord’s table.  Jesus gathered people of all backgrounds to His table of fellowship, without requiring a certain belief or understanding, and they responded to His invitation.  Jesus did not discriminate to those he invited to His table, and neither will Bethany.  All truly ARE welcome to participate in Holy Communion!

A Children’s Message is provided at each service.  Child participation is mostly guaranteed as there is a treat for the children after the message!

Our congregation spans a range of ages and backgrounds.  Dress style is casual – you’ll see people dressed in all styles, from jeans to sundresses, shirts and ties.  Just come as you are!

After Service

Getting connected is about building relationships, which is about more than attending worship.  One way to get connected is to join everyone for coffee and fellowship in the Fellowship Hall following each worship service.  It can be a loud and joyous time as people gather to share stories and laughter.  You may even participate in a raucous game of bingo as part of our fellowship time!