Bethany Christian Church | Arapahoe, NC

Board Game Night Scheduled for Feb. 20

2010-01-26T12:55:00.002-05:00

The Activities Committee is hosting another board game night beginning at 6 pm, Saturday, Feb. 20. All are invited to bring finger food and enjoy a night of fun and fellowship.

Elders & Deacons Workshop at Christmount Scheduled for March

2010-01-08T11:01:00.002-05:00

Dr. Margaret Ralph, Director of M.A. Program for Roman Catholic Students at Lexington Theological Seminary (LTS), will host an Elders & Deacons Workshop at Christmount March 5 and 6. The workshop is cosponsored by LTS and the Christian Church in North Carolina.

Registration cost includes Friday night lodging in motel accomodations, Friday dinner, and Saturday breakfast and Lunch at Christmount. The registration deadline is Feb. 27. More information is available on the registration form, the link to which follows.

Elders & Deacons Workshop Brochure.pdf

Congregational Transformation Event Will Be Held at Barton College

2010-01-08T10:54:00.002-05:00

The Christian Church in North Carolina is holding a God's Positioning Spirit (GPS) event on Congregational Transformation Jan. 22-23 at Barton College in Wilson. The registration deadline is Jan. 11, and the registration cost is $40.00, meals included.

For those interested and able to attend, a registration form is provided below; just click on the link.

Click here for the Congregational Transformation GPS Registration Form.pdf

Time for Camp Registration

2010-01-05T16:23:00.002-05:00

To register for a Christian Church camp in North Carolina, print out the registration form below.
2010 Camp Registration Form.pdf

First Christmas Play and Party Held in New Building

2009-12-30T08:46:00.002-05:00

The first Children's Christmas Play was presented in the new sanctuary the fourth Sunday of Advent, Dec. 20, followed by a party in the fellowship hall, the highlight of which was an appearance by Santa Claus.

The children put on an enjoyable performance, their innocence a perfect reminder of the innocence of the Christ child. Following, everyone had refreshments in the fellowship hall while merry ole Santa Claus passed out presents and spread cheer. It was a wonderful lead-up to our celebration of the birth of Christ.

This was the setting for the children's play…

which had animals…

and angels.

Play photos by Emily Harper

Then everyone had punch and cookies and looked on…

As the jolly old elf passed out presents.

Party photos by Carol Horne

Please Help with our Outreach Projects

2009-12-03T15:40:00.000-05:00

Bethany is helping two families this Christmas, and Outreach needs your monetary donations. We only have three weeks to finish the project in time for a few days to spare at Christmas to get the last-minute thing for our two families. Please help our outreach efforts any way you can! Pick up a tag at church Sunday, or send a donation to the church office, PO Box 156, Arapahoe, NC 28510.

As another part of our outreach program, Bethany church family members are helping the Salvation Army by ringing the bells for donations at the Grantsboro Piggly Wiggly on Saturday, Dec. 12, but we need volunteers for the following shifts:

3 pm to 4 pm
4 pm to 5 pm
5 pm to 6 pm

Please volunteer by calling Terry Cannan, 249-2422, or emailing her at tandjcannan@embarqmail.com.

Hanging of the Greens Looks Like Fun!

2009-12-03T15:39:00.002-05:00

The greens were hung Friday, Nov. 27, and the folks who helped had a lot of fun, as well as a satisfying meal. Thanks to all of them!

Here are some pictures of the fun.

Don't stand on the top step, Sara!

Too many on one side.

How did you put that up there?

Where's my present?

And now for the crowning touch!

Photos by Emily Harper

Investing in Futures

2009-11-17T12:43:00.002-05:00

Giving Tree as of Sunday, Nov. 15

2009-11-17T12:41:00.002-05:00

Let's fill this tree with leaves by next Sunday!

Giving Tree Needs Leaves

2009-11-06T17:38:00.002-05:00

This is what the giving tree looked like as of Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Last Sunday during worship the giving tree was full of leaves--envelopes for each congregational family containing Faith Commitment Cards. After worship, as each took an envelope, the tree was bare, except for two envelopes replaced by those who immediately completed their faith commitment cards.

The stewardship committee has asked that the Faith Commitment cards be filled out, placed back in their envelopes and sealed, and placed back on the giving tree by Sunday, Nov. 22. We will take a picture after worship for the next three Sundays and place it on the website so all can see the giving tree as it is filled with leaves.

Death Notice

2009-11-06T09:44:00.003-05:00

We regret to report the death on Wednesday, Nov. 4, in Wilmington of Dewey Ensley, who at one time attended Bethany. We extend our sympathy and prayers to his family.

Visitation will be today at 1:00 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 2:00 p.m., at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Wilmington.

Death Notice

2009-10-24T10:03:00.003-04:00

We are sad to report the death of Elbert Vendrick, one of Bethany's longtime members, and we offer our condolences and prayers to the family. Floyd Hardison provided us with this obituary, followed by a remembrance:

ORIENTAL - Jason Elbert Vendrick, 81, of Lovick Lee Road, died Thursday, Oct. 22, 2009, at home.

He is survived by his wife, Rachel Vendrick; one son, George Vendrick of Oriental; one daughter, Rosie Ward of Oriental; one sister, Rebecca Cahoon of Arapahoe; three grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, at Bethany Christian Church with the Rev. Merritt Watson officiating.

The family will receive friends following the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requested memorial contributions be made to Bethany Christian Church, P.O. Box 156, Arapahoe, NC 28510.

Elbert Vendrick returned to Arapahoe a number of years ago along with his wife Rachel, son George and daughter Rosie.

Elbert bought a piece of land that had a nice ridge but for the most part was an island. Elbert built his own bridge. Elbert later had a fishing boat run aground. When he was told to salvage what he could off the boat, Elbert found a way to salvage his entire boat. Elbert loved to attend his brother Johnie's Sunday School class at Bethany. After Johnie died Elbert's body wandered from the church but his heart stayed.

More Good News

2009-10-23T20:44:00.001-04:00

John Beeman, Sr. returned home from the hospital today, and the pathology report is negative. We rejoice with him and his family, and thank God for his blessings!

Software Gremlins Shooed Away

2009-10-23T16:06:00.003-04:00

A software problem that prevented the posting of the Oct. 25 church bulletin has been resolved. You may view the church bulletin by clicking Order of Worship in the menu at right, then clicking the link Click here for the updated church bulletin 10/25/09.
--Editor

Pictures from a Wonderful Homecoming

2009-10-23T11:27:00.004-04:00

Homecoming Oct. 18 was a fun, filling (both physically and spiritually) and rewarding experience. Start planning now to be with us next year.

Although it was good that everyone had a good time and a good meal…

it was great to see all the young people enjoying themselves.

Photos by Emily Harper

First Christian Rocky Mount To Hold Yam Jam Saturday

2009-10-19T10:50:00.003-04:00

First Christian Church Rocky Mount will help the area food bank by harvesting sweet potatoes Saturday, Oct. 24, beginning at 8 am. The goal is to get 200 gleeners to harvest 500 bushels of potatoes.

Snacks and drinks will be provided, and the church will host those wishing to arrive Friday night. Please let the church know of participation in advance at 252-446-4943. Pick-up trucks will be appreciated.

Good News!

2009-10-19T10:35:00.002-04:00

Stephanie Beeman reports that John Beeman, Sr. underwent successful surgery this morning. He will be in ICU for a couple of days until stabilized. She says that things look well for John. Our prayers are with him for a full and quick recovery.

Dinner and Reflection Series Ends; New One to Start Soon

2009-10-10T13:24:00.000-04:00

The five-week Dinner and Reflection series on Thomas Campbell's Declaration and Address ended Wednesday with a delicious meal followed by Merritt Watson's summary of the series and a discussion of the relevance and implications of the document for the church in general and for Bethany in particular.

If you missed the series, however, don't despair; a new 3-week series--Dinner and Reflection II--begins Wednesday, Oct. 21, and ends Wednesday, Nov. 4. In Dinner and Reflection II, Rev. Watson will show videos of D. Newell Williams' addresses before the recent Disciples General Assembly. Williams is President and Professor of Modern and American Church History at Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University, and an excellent speaker.

Mark your calendars (it is on the church calendar link at right): The three-week Dinner and Reflection II series will follow the same format as the first series, but will begin each Wednesday one-half-hour later, at 6 p.m., and end at 7:30 p.m.

Naomi and Garland Cahoon provided the great "simple fare" at the last session in the series.

As you can see, folks there enjoyed the meal.

After the session was over, most had enjoyed the series so much that they were reluctant to leave.

Photos by Editor

The Great Communion

2009-10-07T15:39:00.003-04:00

Congregants from disparate streams of the Stone-Campbell Movement came together Sunday in a Great Communion to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Thomas Campbell's Declaration and Address, a document central to the beginnings of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ and other Stone-Campbell streams. Rev. Merritt Watson led the event.

Bethany's Rev. Rex Horne, Music Director Sara Spalding, and Shirley Ensley participated in the program, and many of Bethany's members attended. All those attending thought the event was successful, and could be a catlyst for greater cooperation and fellowship among the divisions of the Stone-Campbell movement.

Bethany's contingent.

Merritt leads the program.

Rex Horne describes the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Shirley Ensley plays the piano and Sara Spalding leads the singing of traditional hymns.

Photos by Emily Harper

Parker Lee Presents Program at CMF/CWF

2009-09-23T11:20:00.002-04:00

Parker Lee regaled the crowd at the CMF/CWF meeting Sunday, Sept. 20, with slides and narrative of her trip to Australia.

It was obvious that Parker enjoyed her trip.

Just as obviously, the audience enjoyed the presentation.

The air conditioning may have been set a little too low.

But Parker's wonderful presentation made everyone want to go to Australia!

Photos by Mac Harris

Scenes from 5th Sunday Dinner

2009-09-23T10:42:00.002-04:00

Fifth-Sunday Dinner August 30 was a lot of fun (and some work) and good food, as you can see in these photos.

Do you like my party hat?

Load it up, please.

What is this?

I'm going back for more!

Work is never done!

Photos by Jennie Adams

Five-Week Study "Dinner and Reflection" begins Sep. 9

2009-09-03T17:04:00.005-04:00

Rev. Merritt Watson on Wednesday, Sep. 9, will begin a 5-week mid-week study entitled "Dinner and Reflection." Emphasis will be on celebrating a part of Disciples history--the 200th anniversary of Thomas Campbell's "Declaration and Address."

Dinner will begin promptly at 5:30 p.m., followed by the reflection, which will end promptly at 7:00 p.m. Those who will be attending should advise Rev. Watson in advance in order that adequate preparations may be made.

Pamlico District Union to Meet August 29

2009-08-06T17:34:00.001-04:00

The Pamlico District Union will meet at 10:00 a.m., August 29, at Highland Park Christian Church.

District CMF to Meet at Amity

2009-08-06T17:30:00.001-04:00

The Pamlico District Christian Men's Fellowship will meet Friday, August 14, at 7:30 p.m. at Amity Christian Church.

News from the 2009 General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

2009-07-31T18:24:00.003-04:00

Editor's Note: Jennie Adams sent her journal and photos from the 2009 General Assembly in Indianapolis, Ind.

Jennie Kennel Adams’ 2009 General Assembly Journal

Wednesday, July 29
The car trip to Indianapolis, Ind., was lengthy. Merritt and Linda got up around 4:30and were on the road from Pamlico County around 5:30. Jennie left from the Raleigh area with Bob and Elaine Kennel around 6:20 am. To get to Indy one has to travel from North Carolina through Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana. That’s 11 to 13 hours, ya’ll. Just 10 days ago, Jennie was in Indianapolis via US Airways in just under 4 hours, and that was including an airport layover. Just about all comes back to time, energy, and money.

But the landscape was beautiful. West Virginia’s mountains are majestic, green, and precipitous. Kentucky’s rounded mountains are friendly, green, and calming and the roads sanely follow the rivers. From a native flat-lander’s point of view, being in the mountains is just a bit edgy. You can’t see around a mountain. Depth is added. I like seeing tobacco barns way off in the distance, and in a straight, flat line. Mountains are great for visiting, but Pamlico County is great for living.

After in-car meals of pita chips, peanut butter sandwiches, cherries, and granola bars, we all gladly walked to The Old Spaghetti Factory to share a really good, reasonably-price meal together. Then gratefully off to bed…fitful sleep for Linda for Merritt because they were unluckily located over working train tracks, with trains coming and going from the Amtrak station all night long. (Second night miraculously no trains arrived or left the station).

Thursday, July 30
Long registration lines….Occasional familiar faces (but this is my first General Assembly) Merritt, Linda, Bob, and Elaine seemed to know everyone….A lot of people…The Moderator reported that the Assembly was being attended by more than 7000 people, and it felt like all were in Assembly Hall C. There were huge screens in the front and middle. Cameras and microphones were strategically placed around the arena giving the common voter a chance to speak to the mass on the topics which were about to be voted upon.

The theme, to which all speakers tied their thoughts, was “for the Healing of the Nations” We are Disciples of Christ, a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world. As part of the one body of Christ, we welcome all to the Lord’s Table as God has welcomed us.”

The Exhibit Hall was packed with vendors and divisions of the Disciples programs. Almost all had free gifts for the asking. Bags, pens, hand sanitizers, mouthwash-sized cups of iced mocha….Church Extension gave out pedometers as their part toward monitoring wholeness of the body. So we all strapped them on and started walking. Since we don’t have sidewalks in Pamlico County, and since places to go are so spread out, few (other than Mrs. Julia) walk to wherever they want to go. Here you walk everywhere. Our hotels were also the furthest away. The Convention Center itself is about three blocks long. So by the end of the day, Linda had over 6000 steps, Merritt over 3000 (which had to be a malfunction ‘cause he was lock-step with her the whole time), and Jennie had almost 16,000 steps. (I walked down to the USA Gymnastics headquarters to pick up a Code of Points and do a little visiting; the offices, oddly enough, were in the Disciples of Christ building)

After going through the registration process, the first order of business was a presentation by the Sharon E. Watkins, the General Minster and President of the Christian Church. What a dynamic and engaging woman she is. I bought a copy of the presentation just to have for us about how the rest of the Disciples in the world work. The second order of business was the Business Session. It was neat hearing the reports, listening to the bill numbers and their presentations by the heads of the committees who had been working on each need. Few controversies were there on the first day. Run of the mill proposals…Few speakers for or against.

That night at the worship service, Cynthia Hale, of Decatur, Georgia delivered the sermon/address. Boy did she deliver! Major dynamic…She was like a cross between Faulkner’s “stream of consciousness and rap.” We were ‘raptly’ engaged. I was mesmerized with her cadence and rhythm and tag points, catch phrases that sped by. I bought that DVD also, needing to hear it two or three times, I think. Between the music, which I haven’t even mentioned (but makes up a huge part of the worship atmosphere) and the totally awesome speakers, we were immersed in worship. Tired with having to think and tired of body we all headed to our rooms around 10:00. Great day.