Thanks for taking the time to check out our website. We know you probably have a few questions about our church and we hope that you'll find the answers here.
If you'd like to visit for worship and you need directions or have any questions, be sure to view the CONTACT US or FIND US pages. We hope to see you soon and we look forward to inviting you into the Bethel family. You can also view a parking map HERE.
Where and when are your worship services?
We have 3 services every Sunday morning: 8:00, 9:15 and 11:00
Two traditional services at 8:00 and 11:00 am are held in our historic Sanctuary, and a contemporary service at 9:15 am is held in our Fellowship Hall.
We also live stream our 9:15 and 11:00 services each Sunday. You can join us live or any time after the service. Weekly links are provided on our Virtual Worship page or you can subscribe to our YouTube channel and be notified each time we go live or post a video.
What about parking?
There are several different parking options. First, there is street parking; three spots are designated for handicap use on Sundays. There is a small lot on 4th & Market Streets and a larger lot on 4th & Chestnut Streets. Additional parking can also be found just a block away in the Nursing School parking lot. Since the school is not in session on Sundays, the hospital has agreed to allow us to use the spaces. Just head towards Beebe Hospital on Market Street and look for the "Additional Bethel Parking" signs! To see a parking map, CLICK HERE.
What should I wear?
Feel free to wear whatever clothes make you feel most comfortable. You'll find some folks wearing shorts and T-shirts because they're headed for the beach after church. You'll find others more dressed up, particularly at our traditional services. But, frankly, it just doesn't matter. We care more that you're here, than about what you're wearing.
How long are your services?
About one hour to an hour and fifteen minutes.
What are your services like?
Bethel's services focus mostly on worship and teaching. We'll share some announcements during the morning, express our hearts to God through music, and hear a message about God's word. The 8:00 and 11:00 am services are traditional Methodist services for those who connect to God through hymns and liturgy. The music at the 9:15 "Come Alive Time" service is contemporary, led by our praise band. The sermons in all 3 services are identical. Both before and after the services, our fellowship hall is open to talk more with people you've met and grab a cup of coffee.
Will I have to say anything, sign anything, or be singled out?
We usually ask if there are first-time visitors so that we can give you a Welcome Gift. But rest assured that you won't be asked to stand and tell us your name, etc. We do like to collect some basic information from people in our guest registry, but if you'd prefer not to, that's all right with us. But don't be surprised if someone notices you're a visitor and offers a handshake, a warm welcome, and an invitation to visit us again. That's part of what church is all about, right?
What about the offering?
Though we do receive an offering, we don't want anyone to feel obligated to give.
What about my kids?
We encourage families to worship together whenever possible. However, a nursery room is available for those times when infants or toddlers need a little alone time with mom or dad. A video monitor is in place so you won't miss any of the service. Sunday School, for pre-K through 8th grade, is offered during the 9:15 worship service. Your children will participate in the opening of worship and will then be dismissed to their classrooms after the Children's Message. Bethel UMC is a Safe Sanctuary church. If you'd like to view our Safe Sanctuary Policy, click here.
Parents are always welcome to attend and observe any of our children's ministries.
More information can be found on the Children's Ministry and FUEL Student Ministries pages.