Established: 1997

Purpose/Mission Statement: To develop, nurture and promote faithful and consistent church membership in the lives of each new member of the Bethany Missionary Baptist Church family in an effort to advance the Great Commission of the church:  Matthew 28:19-20   “  Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen”

 All new members are encouraged to complete the 12-Week Discipleship Course held:

Sunday morning – 9:30 AM (Adults & Children)

  • Adults meet in the balcony (piano side) of Main Sanctuary)
  • Children meet in All Ministry room (located behind the Fellowship Hall)

Thursday evening – 6:00 pm – Adults only meet in Conference room

Scripture:  2 Peter 3:18 “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever. Amen”

Meeting Day:  The New Members Ministry leaders meets bi-monthly on Sunday following morning worship. 

 History

The New Members’ Ministry was organized in 1997, under the pastorate of  Rev. Alpheus L. Bright, to further enhance the spiritual worship and missionary services at Bethany Missionary Baptist Church by involving new members in the church’s overall programs.  Trustee Lou Richardson was appointed general advisor, assisted by Deacon Ormond Chandler.  Sister Effie Stevens and Brother Taurean Norman served as the first presidents of the adult and youth group, respectively.

In 1998, the ministry organized a 12-week orientation for members who joined the church during the past 18 months.  Trustee Lou Richardson was the instructor, and 25 members completed the class.  A closing luncheon was held, and each member was presented a certificate of completion.

In March 2002, under the leadership and pastorate of Rev. Dr. Myron D. Barnes, the New Members’ Ministry was restructured.  The mission was expanded as noted above, and orientation included a recurring 12-Week Discipleship Course for all new members, ages 6 and up, who join the church under Christian experience, restoration or as a candidate for baptism.  The course offers classes on Bethany Beliefs, Bethany Ministries, Baptist Beliefs, Church Ordinances, Introduction to the Bible, Articles of Faith, Salvation, The Four Gospels, The Book of Acts, Worship, Stewardship and Evangelism.  Deaconess Karen Kennedy and Deacon Neal Stubbs were appointed and currently serve as ministry leader and advisor, respectively.

Current activities include an annual New Members’ luncheon, a Buddy ministry, and special make-up sessions to assist members in completing the 12-Week Discipleship Course.  The New Members’ Ministry is blessed to have dedicated Deacons, Deaconess, Missionaries, Ministry Leaders and Church Members-at-large committed to instructing and assisting new members’ integration into the membership and fellowship of the Bethany Missionary Baptist Church family.