BethanyBeacon
The monthly newsletter of Bethany United Methodist Church, Summerville, South Carolina
Vol. XIII, Issue 1 January 2016
An Official Welcoming Congregation of the United Methodist Church
Inside: Bethany CDC................................5 Bethany Now..............................8-9 Birthdays & Sympathies..............13 Happy Hearts................................ 7 Grace Notes.................................. 4 Notes & Reminders....................... 6 Outreach........................................3 Parable of Life Saving Station......10 Sermon Topics............................. .2 Stephen Ministry..........................11 Technical Ministries.......................7 Trustees........................................8 UMW Circles.................................8
By Rev. Adriane Burgess Special to the Bethany Beacon
Kick off your New Year with an inspiring six-week sermon series on twelve fascinating women who were turning points in God’s plan revealed in the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. Both men and women today can identify with their courage, vision, temptations and struggles. Learn more about Eve, Sarah, Ruth, Hannah, Rahab, the Samaritan Woman, Mary-mother of Jesus, Anna, Mary and Martha, Mary Magdalene, and Lydia. Together, we will reflect on God’s redemptive work through their lives—and our own lives—for the transformation of the world right now. The series begins on Jan. 3 and will run through Feb. 7 in the Word and Table, Contemporary service at 8:45 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall.
Do You Have Financial Peace?
By Will Thompson Director of Student MInistries Special to the Bethany Beacon
Bethany UMC is a Safe Sanctuary facility, creating a safe environment for children and youth.
If the words “stewardship” or “budget” make you a little uneasy—don’t worry!! You’re only normal. Most people do not like to talk about money. As a matter of fact, many of us were raised to never talk about it. It was considered rude. I agree that discussing how much people make is none of my business—but never discussing how that money is spent, saved, or given is not a good habit for anyone. We should desire to hold each other accountable to how we manage God’s money. We are all capable of creating a financial mess— fast!! Many of us have done just that. Many of
us are in a mess right now. Did you know that God desires that we be completely free of financial burdens? This allows us to serve Him more willingly when He calls us. Think about it. Have you ever not participated in something that you thought God wanted you to do, but you were too stressed financially? Do you really want to tithe (give 10% of your income to your church), but can’t seem to make that fit the monthly budget? Would you like to sponsor a youth on a mission trip, or help a loving family adopt a child? There are endless opportunities we can prayerfully say “yes” to when we experience financial freedom. continued on pg. 12