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Bethesda Christian Fellowship
General Information
Table of Contents:
1. Government
2. Philosophy
3. Atmosphere
4. Ministry
5. General
6. Membership
7. Service Schedule
1Jn 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
1. Government
BCF is unique in that our leadership structure is based upon the New Testament pattern of Eldership. The Elders co-pastor as equals in authority. This system is in keeping with the instructions of Jesus to avoid establishing hierarchies in the church. Because the Elders are committed to unanimity in purpose and direction, the church benefits from clear direction.
Deacons are an integral part of BCF’s structure. They insure the place of worship is free of unnecessary distractions through maintenance of the building and grounds. They are involved in budgeting and planning the church finances. The Deacons concern themselves with the safety and well being of the members and visitors of BCF. Their commitment to the people of God is seen in their Christ like service. The Deacons and Elders work together to provide a place where Brothers and Sisters in Christ can be equipped for the service of Christ the King.
All members have a vital part at BCF. Ordination of new Elders or Deacons requires unanimous consent from all voting members. This is the case also when accepting new members into the church or in the case when discipline of a member becomes necessary. Each person at BCF is a valued asset in carrying out the work of the ministry.
2. Philosophy
BCF is a family friendly church. We promote the family structure by having "family school" instead of "Sunday School". Families sit together to learn important truths. Participation is encouraged for all ages. We work hard to make the lessons edifying for all ages. Children are also welcome in the sanctuary during the regular services. We do provide a designated area where mothers may nurse their child for their convenience. With closed circuit television we provide, moms may want to train their "active" children how to sit quietly in church.
It is a goal of the Elders of BCF to equip fathers to meekly lead their families in worship, service, evangelism, prayer, and study of God’s Word. Strong fathers make strong families. Strong families make strong churches.
God honoring testimonies are encouraged during our worship services. All the saints of God are to be ministers to some degree. Even a child can honor God by testifying of an answered prayer.
The music at BCF is intended to enhance the worship of the God of order. Presently, the church orchestra consists of: Two pianos, Two violins, a viola and a cello. We also encourage families to do specials.
3. Atmosphere
You will find the people of Bethesda to be friendly and hospitable. We like to stay after church from time to time and form a friendly volley ball game, or just sit around and fellowship after a meal. We have a fenced yard behind the church to provide a play area for smaller children to run and have fun with the many toys. The first Saturday of each month we have a mens meeting at the church where breakfast is served and no topic is off limits. This is a special time for the men to share concerns, joys, sorrows, etc., . . . .
Each third Sunday we share a meal prior to ministering at a local nursing home. Again, family ministry is key. What a joy it is to see the elderly saints brighten up when the children sing a special song or interact with them after the service. We have kept Sunday evenings open for visiting, hospitality or just resting.
4. Ministry
BCF believes it is our duty to evangelize. It is our privilege and honor to present the gospel message to the lost. Whatever race, age or gender, Christians are to tell of the mercy and grace of God. We provide evangelistic opportunities in prison, creation science, crusades, door to door, tract events and home bible study. Inspirational speakers are invited to encourage us to be faithful to this universal call to Christ’s church.
As souls are won for Christ ministers are needed to disciple the new converts. Home Bible studies, Mens fellowships, Family School and Wednesday night services are all tools to be used to disciple new believers.
We financially and prayerfully support missionaries. We currently support missionary families in: Russia, Mozambique, Papa New Guinea, Canary Islands, and the United States. We also support Voice of the Martyrs and VITAE Society financially.
5. General
BCF is committed to conducting itself in accordance with the word of God. The King James Version is our standard for faith and practice in all matters. Though we are a "non denominational" church, we are very Baptist in our beliefs. We teach: Believers Baptism by Immersion, Eternal Security, Justification by Faith, Indwelling of the Holy Spirit at the moment of conversion, Inspiration of Scriptures, Triune God, Incarnation, Virgin Birth, Fallen nature of man, literal bodily Resurrection of Jesus, Imminent Return, Rapture of the Church, Reinstatement of Israel, Millennial Reign, Literal Creation (six days), and so forth.
We believe men and women are to dress modestly and conduct themselves in a manner befitting an ambassador of God our Savior, Jesus Christ.
6. Membership
We encourage you to be an active, committed member of a Bible believing church. If you are interested in joining our church feel free to speak to any of the members of BCF and they will see to it that you get the information you need.
7. Service Schedule
SUNDAY MORNING
FAMILY SCHOOL 10:00 - 10:45
WORSHIP 11:00 - 1:00
THIRD SUNDAYS OF EACH MONTH
WORSHIP 10:00 - 12:00
POTLUCK 12:00 - 1:45
WEBCO 2:00 - 3:00
WEDNESDAY EVENING
BIBLE STUDY 7:00 - 8:00
FIFTH SUNDAYS (QUARTERLY)
WORSHIP 10:00 - 12:00
POTLUCK 12:00 - 1:45
Brother Ron Burks Brother Gene Baker
Pastor BCF Pastor BCF
Thank you for visiting Bethesda Christian Fellowship's Website. May "the Lord bless thee and keep thee: the Lord make his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: the Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace."
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