What's Happening

Join us in thanking Jim Guida, who led yesterday's worship service, and to Vickie Owens for serving as liturgist. Musicians included Barbara Greene and Sherry McHurd Hanson. Jim delivered a sousing sermon entitled “E Pluribus Unum” which reminded everyone about the call to Christians everywhere to unite against discrimination and hatred.

This coming Sunday, we will welcome Rev. Jack McNary back to the pulpit. Jack will return on Sunday, November 24.


The movie-goers of Bethany will see “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” tomorrow—Tuesday, Nov. 12—at Century Cinemark Laguna Theater. The film starts at 1:50 p.m. and tickets are $7. No need to RSVP … just show up! Click here for directions and more info.


All are welcome at this coming Thursday’s (Nov. 14)  Bible study, held 10-11:30 a.m. in the church library. Come at 9:30 for social time and refreshments Click here for details and how to participate via ZoomThis session’s theme is “peace.”


Acelebration of the life of long-time Bethany member Jo McHurd will take place Saturday, September 16, at 2 p.m. Volunteers are invited to help with the service and reception.See Cathy Sapunor or Kathy Frank if you are available.


THIS COMING SUNDAY—NOV, 17—SHORTBREAD COOKIES NEEDED! Bethany has apparently gained a reputation for its delicious home-made Scottish shortbread cookies. Several in the congregation bake these treats using the traditional recipe of long-time member Myra Cowan, a native of Glasgow. We’ve been asked to make shortbread for serving Sunday, Nov. 17, following the service at which our new Executive Presbyter—Rev. Karen Sapio—will be commissioned. Can you make a pan of cookies? Recipes are in the church kitchen or you can get a copy here. If you are unable to attend the service (all are welcome, by the way), you can bring your cookies to church and someone will deliver them to Faith Presbyterian Church (where the 2:3o p.m. service is taking place). Please tell Kathy Frank or Cathy Sapunor if you are going to bake shortbread.

Rev, Peggy Cross facilitated a gathering of Bethany members yesterday. Hosted by Debbie Leibrock, Marilee Keene and Mark Strack, the meeting encouraged focused input from everyone regarding the future of Bethany. More than 30 people attended and shared their respective visions. Thank you, Rev. Peggy, and Debbie, Marilee and Mark for coordinating this important meeting … and to Kathy Frank, Howard McMackin, Wendy Aiello and others who prepared the lunch.

The Food Closet can use extra hands for the annual Thanksgiving grocery distribution Monday, Nov. 25-Wednesday, Nov. 27. Can you help? If so, please contact Cathy Sapunor ASAP.

Tuesday, Nov. 12—movie date to see “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”— starts 1:50 p.m. at Cinemark Century Laguna Theater in Elk Grove.

Thursday, Nov. 14—Presbyterian Women’s Bible Study: Fruit of the Spirit at 10 a.m. in the church library. Show up at 9:30 for refreshments and social time.

Saturday, Nov. 16—memorial service for Jo McHurd at 2 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 17—service at Faith Presbyterian Church to commission North Central California Presbytery’s new Executive Presbyter Rev. Karen Sapio; starts 2:30 p.m. at 625 Florin Road. CLICK HERE FOR THE INVITATION & DETAILS.

Sunday, Nov. 24—Thanksgiving pie served following the worship service.

Date TBA—annual Hot Cocoa Ministry to serve clients and/or volunteers of the SSIP Food Closet. Watch for details!

Saturday, Nov. 30—deck the halls at Bethany! Join us 10-11:30 a.m. to help decorate the sanctuary with festive garlands and set up the Christmas tree! More details to come.

Sunday, Dec. 1—first Sunday of Advent.

Sunday, Dec. 15—bring your creché (manger scene) to display during the worship service. A Bethany Advent tradition!

Tuesday, Dec. 24—Christmas Eve service at 5 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 30—the last Food Closet volunteer morning this year.


Thank you, volunteers, for serving as readers on Sunday mornings!
Nov. 17 — Debbie Leibrock

Nov. 24 — Wendy Aiello


PLEASE PRAY FOR members and friends of our extended Bethany family, as well as those of our community, who are experiencing health and financial challenges, loss, loneliness, anxiety and depression. We pray for guidance as we continue to focus on plans for Bethany's future. Please pray for the leaders of all nations, that they may choose peaceful resolutions to conflict.