We were pleased to again welcome Rev. Jack McNary to the pulpit yesterday, the fourth Sunday in Lent. His message—”Our Greatest Desire”—was based on Psalm 27:4. You can read more about the service here.
During the service, Rev. Janice Kamikawa presented an informative “Moment for Mission,” telling more about the work of the Presbyterian Church’s SDOP (Self-Development of People) project. Rev. Janice told of this project last month when Bethany and churches throughout the U.S. observed February 8 as “Self-Development of People” Sunday. Click here to read more about SDOP and download the yearbook she mentioned in her brief talk! Click here to read more about SDOP and download the yearbook she mentioned in her brief talk!
This coming Sunday (March 22) Jim Guida will be preaching.
TODAY—Monday, March 16—Bethany’s “Monday Group” holds its next session based on Richard Rohr’s book “Wondrous Encounters.” The group, led by Jackie Sneed, will meet at 10 a.m. We will cover betrayal and how it can close you down & make you protective … or can open you up and enlarge your soul. All are welcome;
ALSO TODAY—March 16—Sacramento Area Congregations Together invites you to the next interfaith prayer vigil, 12 noon-1 p.m., outside the John Moss Federal Building, 650 Capitol Mall. There will be prayers and reflections on the importance of treating all of God’s family with dignity and justice … inspiring music and messages of hope … fellowship and chances to make new connections. Click here for details and to RSVP.
TUESDAY, March 17—Bethany’s Movie Group invites everyone to join in seeing the animated film “Wild Robot” in the church’s Farrand Hall. Come at 9:30 a.m. for refreshments; the movie starts at 10 a.m. This is a sweet & powerful story about being a parent. Wear something green as it’s St. Patrick’s Day! Click here for details.
Next week we will see the new sci fi film “Hail Mary.” See Nga Chau if you have questions.
Anyone and everyone can participate in movie outings, which take place 3-4 times a month.
WEDNESDAY, March 18, is our 18th “Coffee & Conversation” … happening each Wednesday 8:30-10:30 a.m. in the Social Hall! Enjoy free coffee and pastries. It’s informal; drop in any time. Come by yourself or bring a friend. Questions? Want to help? See Mark Strack. More details here.
A week from Monday (March 23)—Join in a spirited discussion series on the challenges and rewards of getting older. This 5-part series—“God Isn’t Finished With Me Yet”—will help us discover the graces of later life. Meet 10 a.m. today in the church library; come at 9:30 for refreshments. The series is led by Cathy Sapunor. The final meeting will take place April 13. Click here for details.
This week’s topic: A Spirit of Abundance
Saturday, March 28, 1-2:30 p.m.—REACHING OUT MINISTRY held at Bethany to benefit those in need in our community. Contact Susan Just if you would like to help … you are also invited to stop by to see what this mission activity is all about. About 100 people are expected to attend. The purpose is to build community and provide free items such as clothing, toiletries, basic essential needs items, books and pet foods. Lunch is provided. Everything is free. This is not a focused homeless outreach; however, several unhomed folks do attend. Reaching Out is held in partnership with Faith Presbyterian Church.
MONDAY, MARCH 30—Bethany will fill 5 volunteer spots today at the SSIP Food Closet. This is something we do on every month that has a “fifth Monday.” Volunteers help sort and pack groceries for families who are in need. The volunteer time is 8:30-11:40 a.m. Contact Cathy Sapunor if you can lend a hand! Please give some thought to helping on that day. More details (and photos) are here.
This is your invitation to make a financial pledge to Bethany for 2026. “Moving Forward With God: Count Me In!” is the theme, signifying that each of us is an active participant in the work of the lord here in our community. Please prayerfully consider how you may give of your time, talent and treasure in the coming year. Contact the church office to ask for a pledge form or download one here.
Sunday, March 29—Palm Sunday worship service; starts 10:30 a.m. Rev. Elias Burgos will preach.
Sunday, April 5—Easter Sunday service, 10:30 a.m. Elder Jim Guida will be preaching today.
Friday, April 10—Memorial service for Ralph Congdon. Time to be announced.
August 7-9—annual FRIENDS & FAMILY RETREAT at Zephyr Point. Registration forms will be available starting Easter Sunday.
