Notes from the August 28th Stated Meeting of the AC/Session.

"Take it from someone with over 50 years' experience working with elders all across our denomination, you have a really good Session. The five elders who are serving right now as 'Elder Shepherds' come together with good hearts, positive hopes, good skill sets, and forward-looking perspectives."

On behalf of the Administrative Commission let me share a word of encouragement. You remain very much in our prayers as you think and talk together about God's plans for the future of the fellowship, and of Bethany's ministry life. As you think about the future, I'd like to speak three hopeful thoughts.

"There is a deep desire for a healthy ministry in the midst of church decline. And some creative thinking is already percolating among the fellowship."

This is a special invitation to join in the focus groups set for Sunday, June 9 and Sunday, June 23, following the morning worship service. There are, indeed, challenges ahead — financial questions to be answered, property management to be considered, and, most important, the worship and program life of the historic Bethany fellowship to be discussed. And your prayerful, creative insights are essential to this process. 

“During this time of ministry transition we want you to know that you are not alone. You have brothers and sisters praying for you, partnering with you, and looking forward as you seek God's guidance and blessings.”

Rev. Rick Hull, Chair of the Presbytery Administrative Commission, introduced members of the AC to the Bethany congregation on April 7. He then went on to tell of the AC’s work.