Bethany UMC is proud to be involved in a variety of ministries within the church and the larger community.

Social Justice and Outreach Bethany UMC is proud to be a Reconciling Congregation. As a reconciling congregation (RC), we are part of a movement of United Methodist churches, campus ministries, boards and agencies that are openly welcoming of all persons, regardless of sexual orientation. The Reconciling Congregation Program (which can be reached at 773-736-5526) began in 1984, and Bethany is one of the first churches to declare itself an RC. Our Prophetic Witness committee focuses on keeping Bethany in a leadership role for reconciling ministries. Activities include advocacy at the Annual and General Conferences, continuing leadership on supporting gay marriage, teaching others about how to create a reconciling ministry, and reclaiming our vision of what it means to be a United Methodist.

Homeless Bethany's Social Action committee focuses on people in our community who are economically disadvantaged. Activities include providing warm clothing and socks, meals for homeless people, re-launching the Share food distribution program, Thanksgiving meals, and Christmas gift sharing. Bethany is also involved with the city of San Francisco's Religious Witness for the Homeless Program.

Techniques to Wellness The Bethany Techniques to Wellness program is an after school computer learning and wellness program for grandparents who are raising their young grandchildren. The older adults and children attend the program together. Our program is designed to help these families learn how to take better care of themselves and learn new skills. A pilot program began in October 2001. If you'd like more info, or would like to volunteer contact Jeannette Given at tech2well@yahoo.com.

Enfold Bethany United Methodist Church in San Francisco is pleased to announce the publication of "Enfold ", a collection of essays written by the congregation about their experiences in becoming a Reconciling Congregation within the United Methodist Church. Reconciling Congregations welcome all regardless of their sexual identity. Written from the heart, Enfold has already touched many and has helped to open doors long closed. Enfold is available for a suggested donation of $10 (to help offset publication costs) and is available at the Church office during the week or after Church during coffee hour or by sending a request and check to: Bethany United Methodist Church, 1268 Sanchez Street, San Francisco, CA 94114

Spiritual Formation The spiritual development of all its members is an integral part of Bethany's Ministries. The Nurture Committee provides "Small Group Studies" on a variety of topics, as well as workshops and other spiritual growth opportunities. There is Sunday School for the kids as well as other events. They can also learn how to participate in Worship. We welcome children in our congregation to add a playfulness and creativity to our community. We have engaging book studies after church as well. Currently, there are two small group studies going on at the church. On Sunday mornings at 9:30 AM, members gather for "Living the Questions", a DVD based study featuring contemporary theologians debating controversial topics of today. On Wednesday evenings at 7:00 PM, there is a 35-week Disciple bible study which includes small group sharing and discussion of weekly reading. For more information about these or future educational opportunities, please contact the church office.

Families and Children In addition to offering weekly Sunday School and Children's Time during Sunday worship services, Bethany is home to many family and children oriented events. We have winter and labor day weekend retreats, family game nights, halloween parties, Easter egg hunts, Christmas activities and day trips around the Bay Area. Childcare is also provided during worship and other congregational activities and meetings.

The Piecemakers The Piecemakers are a group of people who use their quilting talents for others who are less fortunate. They have made quilts and blankets for local organizations and for the needy. Many of the beautiful quilts are displayed in Bethany's building facility.

Music Bethany offers a great diversity of music during each worship service with a dynamic group of vocalists and instrumentalists. The sanctuary choir participates in worship each Sunday, except for a short break during the summer. We always have an extra folder of music and an empty chair at our rehearsals. Whether you have been a member of the congregation for some time or you are considering your first visit, if you enjoy worshipping through music and the arts, we encourage you to let us know of your interest and we will get you involved. In our choir, playing handbells, or as an instrumentalist, there is a place for you in the music ministry! Please don't be shy; consider sharing the gifts God has given you in the near future. Contact our Music Director for more information.

Sanctuary Choir The Sanctuary Choir meets for rehearsal in the Sanctuary Thursdays at 6 PM.

Bell Appeal The Handbell Choir began in 1996 and performs monthly in worship throughout the church year. It is also gaining recognition in the larger San Francisco community, performing several times a year with the San Francisco Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band. The handbell choir rehearses in the Music Room on Thursday evenings at 7:15. New Members are always welcome.

Concerts Bethany is often the site of concerts and recitals. It is the concert home of the SF Lesbian/Gay Freedom Band which offers free community concerts every other month. We also host the weekly rehearsal of Na Leo Nahe Nahe, San Francisco's premier Hawaiian language chorus and have guest instrumentalists in worship including Brass Quintets, The Dixieland Dykes and our own Worship Band. We have also hosted concerts by the Gay Asian Pacific Alliance Men's Chorus and many other community groups.

Liturgical Art Several times throughout the year our Sanctuary is transformed by the use of liturgical art. Flowers, banners, installation art commissioned by local artists and congregation members combine to enhance the corporate worship of the community.   Back to top