Tell the Next Generation

Bethel is at a pivotal moment. We've had them before. In 1940 members of Zion Lutheran made the difficult decision to relocate from Kurten and start a new congregation in Bryan. What blessings God worked through that move. In 1962, Bethel made another pivotal decision to move and build on our present site. In 1982 God used Bethel to help start Holy Cross Lutheran Church in College Station, a relocation of another sort. Each move was possible because Bethel members were called (willing) to give of their time, talents, and treasure. Each move then allowed Gods people to be in a better position to teach the Word and share the Gospel by reaching out into the community. Our intended relocation has the same purpose.

For the last 45 years at our present site God has blessed his work through His people. Bethel now has 290 families with worship attendance of about 330. Sunday School for all ages has given us the good problem of being close to capacity, with little room for additional classes or people.

In 2001 we looked into an expansion of facilities at our current site of 3+ acres. This would have provided some relief, but it was determined that ultimately this would not have been good stewardship of our time, talents, and treasure. A 2003 Mission Review & Refocus Initiative report, approved by the Voter's Assembly, determined that the goals for Bethel's ministry were much broader, and that relocation to a larger and more visible site would better allow us to achieve these goals. By building now, we are preparing seats in the sanctuary and in the Sunday School rooms for those who God will bring, so they can hear "...the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord..."The FM158 site of nearly twelve acres places us in a growth corridor of Bryan. We are surrounded by 8 different neighborhoods with a great variety of homes - from the near palatial to HUD supported. This visibility of our site and the design of the buildings themselves will be an invitation to our new neighbors. The additional room, ample parking, and new facilities will attract new families. While buildings don't save people, the ministry which goes on in them does. With intentional outreach into our neighboring communities, we anticipate bringing many people under the influence of the Gospel as members of Bethel.

Our Building Committee working with our architect, Mr. James Langford, has given us a far-sighted plan. The full build out will provide 44,210 square feet of room, with the possibility of a school in the future. The plan is to build in phases. Our goal for Phase One consists of building the Sanctuary which will ultimately seat 650, church offices, and an Education/Fellowship building totaling 22,273 square feet. The projected cost for this phase is $4,750,000. Later phases will add a larger Fellowship hall/Gym and additional education buildings.

An alternative Phase One calls for a larger Fellowship Hall/temporary worship space, offices and the same educational space. The estimated cost for the alternative will be approximately $2,500,000. Our Sanctuary would then be built in the Second Phase.

The challenge before Bethel's people in terms of time, energy and money is enormous. Were talking more than just building and relocation. The additional ministries we anticipate on our new campus will call for all our best and continued efforts. As those who came before us and built for us, we too can be privileged to see facilities built which will be used for decades to come. People will gather for worship, baptisms, weddings, funerals, fellowship, and service. We build facilities which will be used by our children and grandchildren, as well as many others who are yet to come - starting immediately and for the next half century or more.

Because what we do is primarily a spiritual journey, we will surround and uplift the whole process with Bible study and prayer. Looking at ourselves and what seems to be our limited capability need not discourage us. Instead we are reminded that "our sufficiency is in Christ" alone. He created us; He redeemed us in Christ; His Holy Spirit holds us in faith and equips each to respond in faithful service. We depend upon the Lord to do extraordinary things in and through us, both now and in the future. But it will take all of us as willing participants.

This is an historic opportunity for Bethel to impact our community with the saving Gospel of Jesus in significant and appreciable ways. We want to tell this generation and generations to come what God has done. We want to reach out to those who dont belong to Jesus yet to bring them to Him and into active membership in the Church.

The 1940, the 1962 and the 1983 decisions brought unnumbered spiritual blessings and were accompanied by sacrifices essential. Now you can join ranks with those in prior generations who made the sacrifices which benefit us still today. God will bless you and your family as you allow Him to use you in every greater measure for His work.

There is no better investment of your time, energy and money than that which accomplishes God's work. Every other investment is temporary and will end, but investments for the Savior bring eternal results. Your offerings will have a direct impact on men and women, boys and girls who will be brought to faith. Your familys sacrificial gifts given over three years will make it possible for Bethel to teach and encourage many to grow in faith, faith-life and service to their Savior for years to come. We have been told of "Gods praiseworthy deeds,"especially the sacrifice of our Savior. His praiseworthy deeds brought us forgiveness and made us His own people. We are building to Tell the Next Generation that they may receive what we already have.

You are invited to be a part of it.