At Bethel Church of the Nazarene, we believe the church isn’t just a building, it’s a family. Every week, people from different backgrounds, cultures, and life journeys come together to worship, grow, serve, and support one another. This blog series, Get to Know Us, is our way of celebrating the beautiful diversity within our congregation.
Through a set of simple interview questions, you’ll meet the people who make Bethel what it is. We hope these stories help you feel more connected, inspired, and at home as you discover the unique ways God is at work in each of our lives.
Welcome to the family. Let’s get to know each other.
This is Jan Lanham.
Tim and I came over to Bethel around 1985. Rev. Roger Haskins had invited Tim to be an associate pastor for Bethel specifically to develop counseling resources for the community and to assist in church activities. This started a long association and investment in the Bethel community.
How are you currently involved in the ministries of Bethel? I’m currently involved on the Church Board, the Fellowship Committee for church activities, and the Community Clothing Closet, as well as participating occasionally in worship services.
What do you love about Bethel? Over the years, I have loved the quality of the relationships within the church. We have watched and supported the growth of families as they have moved through various stages. Our role in supporting students through the years has been a wonderful source of ministry and relationships.
How has being part of Bethel shaped your faith or your life? The integration of liturgy in our church services has been a source of rich insights and personal growth as we have been enriched by the rhythm of the Church year and the sense of participation in the wider historical church. The privilege of experiencing consistently challenging and thoughtful sermons has been particularly meaningful for me.
Where do you see God at work in our church community? God is at work in our community in challenging us to find ways to support each other and to speak to issues of justice, mercy, healing, and compassion in practical, daily ways.
What would you say to someone considering visiting Bethel? This is truly a community that cares for each other and the wider community, and seeks to reflect the love of Christ in our relationships and our work in the world. As Jesus welcomes us as his followers, we, too, seek to welcome others,
