Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

1. How old is Bethlehem?

The first official records of Bethlehem Church date back to 1804 when a small parcel of ground was purchased “about one mile northeast of Board’s Store on the Halesford Road,” and deeded to the trustees for a building site for Bethlehem Church. A short time later, a log building was erected with seating for 60 to 75 people. No known church records exist during those early years, but it was known that Bethlehem was part of the Staunton River Circuit which included a number of other churches. In 1976 Bethlehem became a “free standing church” with its own pastor. The present church building was constructed of brick veneer in 1929 for $12,000. The fellowship hall was added in 1983 and the education wing was built in 1995.

2. How many members are there at Bethlehem?

We have approximately 500 members. Many other faithful participants are not on our roll but attend weekly worship and other church events. Our Sunday worship attendance averages about 200.

3. How is the church governed?

In the traditional United Methodist structure, Bethlehem is governed by an Administrative Board which includes the Council on Ministries and the Trustees. The Board primarily manages the administrative functions of the church such as finance, policy, etc.; the Council develops the ministries and programs; the Trustees coordinate the care of the buildings and grounds.

4. Is the church handicap accessible?

Yes. Inside the office entrance door, there is a wheelchair ramp, which leads to the Sanctuary. There is also a ramp behind the education building, for easy access to the classrooms and fellowship hall. Two handicap restrooms are also available.

5. What time are the Sunday worship services and what should I wear?

Sunday services are offered at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Dress casually, come as you are and worship with us. We have a fellowship time with light refreshments at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday following the 8:30 Service and prior to Sunday School, which begins at 9:45 a.m. And on the 3rd Sunday of each Month there is a social hour with refreshments following the 11:00 Service.

6. Do you have to be a United Methodist to attend and/or receive communion?

No. All individuals regardless of denomination are welcome to participate in our worship services and receive communion.

7. What types of music programs do you have at Bethlehem?

We are blessed with a dynamic music ministry! Our 40+ adult choir inspires us on Sunday mornings and during the year with Easter, Christmas and other holiday music. We have two handbell choirs that provide special music throughout the year. Performing together, the choir and handbells provide a heavenly rendition of traditional and modern hymns. We also have a uniquely talented Men Choir that gives special performances throughout the year. Please refer to our Music page for more details.

8. Is there childcare available during the worship services and Sunday School?

Yes. Nursery care is provided for infants through age 3 during the worship services and SundaySchool. Children age 3 through 1st grade are invited to attend Kid’s Korner following the Children’s Prayer in the worship service. Kid’s Korner is held in the back part of the Fellowship Hall and includes craft activities, instruction and a snack. Children in 2nd grade and up are encouraged to stay in the sanctuary during the service; “Quiet Bags” filled with art supplies, puzzles and quiet games are available from the users.

9. What other programs do you have for children?

We provide Sunday School Classes and Vacation Bible School. Please refer Children's Page link for more information. We also provide Preschool, and Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) programs. Please refer to our Preschool Page and M.O.P.S. Page links for more information

10. What kinds of youth activities are offered by the church?

Youth in grades 6 through 12 meet on Sunday evenings for fellowship and Bible study. Additional fellowship and service projects are scheduled monthly. Fund raising events are periodically planned to help finance the youth’s summer mission trip and retreats. Our youth are enthusiastic participants in all church events, and traditionally lead us in a youth-full worship at least once a year. Please refer to our Youth Page for more details.

11. What kinds of classes are offered in Sunday school?

In addition to classes for children and youth, there are usually three or more different classes available for adults. A variety of traditional and contemporary topics are featured, usually ten to 12 weeks in each series. Please refer to our Christian Education Page for more details.

12. Are there Bible studies offered during the week?

Yes! There is a pastor-lead Bible study on Tuesday mornings and a Deciples Bible study on Friday mornings. Beginning this fall Bethlehem is offering the Alpha study course on Tuesday afternoons and Wednesday Evenings. The United Methodist Women center their monthly meetings around a Bible study as well. Members of the community at large, as well as church members are welcome to participate in these studies. Please refer to our Christian Education Page for more detail.

13. What does Bethlehem do to support local missions?

Bethlehem’s members actively participate in numerous local organizations helping to provide food for the hungry, improved housing for the poor and other special needs brought on by poverty, disability or family misfortunes. Opportunities for sharing time, talents and financial support are met with generosity and good will by the congregation. Please refer to our United Methodist Women's Page and our Mission's Page (identified below) for more details.

14. Is Bethlehem involved with disaster relief efforts or world-wide mission needs?

Yes. The Bethlehem Mission team has fully equipped a trailer with tools needed to assist in disaster relief. Members are prepared to respond as needed, in addition to scheduling trips to Biloxi for continuing work in rebuilding the community devastated by Hurricane Katrina. Special offerings are also collected throughout the year to support these efforts. Please refer to our Mission's Page for more details.

15. What types of adult fellowship/social activities does the church offer?

We have many activities throughout the year, including "Dinners of Eight", Picnics, Luaus, and many more. Please refer to our Fellowship Page at the following link for more details.

16. If I need additional information or wish to become a member of the congregation, whom do I contact?

Please call Reverend Lord at 540-297-7957 or E-mail pastorbumc@gmail.com or contact Lynette Braun, our Church secretary, at bumcmoneta@gmail.com Lynette may also be reached at 540-297-7957. Our Church Office hours are of 9:00 - 2:00 Monday - Thursday and 9:00 to 12:00 on Friday. You may also contact us via the Contact Link in the menu on the left side of this page.

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