Ever wonder what it would be like to attend a worship service on the beach? If so, maybe you will want to join us next year for Preach at the Beach! This year’s event was enjoyed by all who attended. The morning started out in a thin blanket of fog with a slight mist in the air. The service opened with prayer and Scripture readings along the theme of Christ, our peace. At each mention of the word, “Peace”, the listeners were asked to clap twice to help them focus on the theme for the day. After a time of singing, both acapella and also accompanied at times by a ukulele, tambourine and a make shift drum (5-gallon bucket), Pastor Rick shared a challenging message of how knowing Christ is the only way to have true peace and the assurance of eternal life in Heaven. By the time the worship service ended, the clouds had rolled away and the sun came out to warm things quite nicely. The fog magically disappeared revealing a magnificent view of the ocean. After the service we enjoyed a potluck lunch, which was also held on the beach. A sand sculpture contest soon ensued in keeping with the “Peace” Sunday Theme. Young and older, alike, participated in bringing their unique sand creations to life. The weather was mild, with very little wind which made for a lovely day at the beach.

 

On Sunday, June 14, 2015, The Bethel Mountain Band performed during the morning worship time. The service was held outside at Serene Acres down by the Willamette River. All who attended enjoyed the picturesque view of the river as the band sang their Gospel bluegrass songs about heaven and the wonderful grace of our Lord. A potluck meal followed the service. Special thanks to The Bethel Mountain Band for their ministry of music.

 

Special Worship Service – 10:00 AM, Sunday, June 14, 2015 –  The Bethel Mountain Band will perform during the morning worship time. Service will be held outside at Serene Acres by the Willamette River. Bring chairs and potluck food to share for the meal following the service. Meet at the church at 9:30 AM to caravan to the location. For questions or more information please contact us.

NOTE: There will be no service at the church on June 14, 2015.

For more information about the Bethel Mountain Band visit: http://bethelmountainband.com/

Left to Right – Will Barnhart, Larry Knox, Gene Stutzman,Craig Ulrich, Jerry Stutzman Tyce Pedersen, Jerry Schrock

Traditionally we gather together in the evening on Good Friday to eat a light meal together. The meal usually consists of bread, cheese and fruit. Following the meal we move into the church sanctuary for a time of remembrance of all that Jesus, our Savior, went through to purchase our freedom by becoming the perfect sacrifice for our sins. The service concludes with the sharing of communion together and then those who want to, take turns washing each others feet as a symbol of humble service and love for each other; the men going to one area of the church and the women to another, remembering Jesus’ act of love to His disciples on the night He was betrayed. The symbolic act of foot washing has become a very meaningful part of the service for those who choose to participate.

 

Our Easter celebration began early at 6:30 AM in the morning on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2015. The weather was crisp and there was even a hint of frost on some of the grass as we gathered to watch the sun come up over the lake. Pastor Rick opened the time by reading from Luke 24:1-9. When he was finished, one of the church members presented a dramatic monologue called, “One of the Crowd,” depicting a woman who was part of the crowd the week before who had shouted, “Hosanna!” and then a week later was part of the crowd who shouted, “Crucify Him!” At the end of the drama, she was greeted by two other young women who had gone to the tomb with spices and perfumes, but found the tomb empty and then saw an angel who said, “Why are you looking for the living among the dead? He is not here; He is risen!” The two young women excitedly relayed the story to the first woman, who realized that because of what Jesus did on the cross and because He is risen, her sins were forgiven! The drama ended with the three women running to tell the other disciples the Good News!

Following the drama, the group that had gathered, made their way down to the dock on the lake to witness the baptisms of two women who publicly wanted to declare their acceptance of God’s grace and forgiveness through Jesus and their love for Him. Even though the temperature outside was only 37 degrees Fahrenheit, they, along with those who baptized them braved the chilly waters of the lake while the rest of the group looked on. After each baptism the crowd of witness applauded and gave thanks to God. Hallelujah! What a Savior!

A delicious Easter Breakfast potluck followed the Sunrise Service back at the church. It was quite a feast with assorted sweet rolls, breads, fruit, and a number of delicious egg casserole combinations. After breakfast the youth ages 0-18 had an Easter egg hunt. Each egg they found contained a number. Some of the numbers were associated with prizes and some where “duds.” Once the eggs were found, each young person excitedly announced their numbers and enjoyed picking out prizes.

The worship service was filled with lots of singing as everyone in attendance was invited to be “the choir.” A combination of traditional hymns, such as, “Christ the Lord is Risen Today!” and “Low in the Grave He Lay” and contemporary Easter songs, such as “My Redeemer Lives!” and “Glorious Day!” were sung. Pastor Rick preached an encouraging and challenging sermon ending with the admonition to “take Jesus with you and share Him with those around you.”

All of the events of the morning contributed to a wonderful Resurrection Day celebration.

HE IS RISEN! HE IS RISEN INDEED!