January 4, 2026
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Sunday Worship
Christ Our Hope in Life and Death
Welcome, Announcements, and Call to Worship
Praise to the Lord (Joyful Joyful)
This I Believe (The Creed)
I Set My Hope
Bethany Family Prayer
Before the Throne of God Above
Communion
Benediction & Compassion Offering
Weekly Schedule
View our calendar HERE for the weekly schedule.
Highlights
Share Your Hope: 2026 Evangelism Goal
This week, Pastor Ritch will kick off our annual churchwide evangelism focus, “Share Your Hope.” Our challenge this year is to get everyone involved by doing something; gospel conversations, outreach ministries, or even volunteering at a soup kitchen. Our goal is to equip and encourage the whole church to share the same unchanging message through countless methods as God opens doors.
Join the Children's Ministry Team
Our Children’s Ministry team is looking for volunteers to join Children’s Church, Buddy Teams, Awana, Nursery, and more! These are some of the ways we get the opportunity to disciple the next generation for Jesus. Go to bethanycentral.org/servekids for more information or email our Children’s Ministry Director at michellec@bethanycentral.org.
Baptisms
If you are ready to publicly declare that Jesus is your Lord and Savior, baptism is your next step. If you are interested in baptism, or simply meeting with a pastor to talk more about the importance of and steps for getting baptized, go to bethanycentral.org/baptism.
Announcements
Welcome New Members
The following people were voted on and approved as new members.
- Darlene Allen
- Scott & Christine Bootz
- Nathan & Melissa Burnham
- Fred & Amanda Johns
- Brendan Kaar
- Virginia McNear
- Annabelle Schick
- Brock & Elizabeth Streitmatter
- Kelly Walder
The Pasture (All Invited)
Wednesday, January 21st, 9:00 AM | Café
The Pasture is a space for members and attenders to connect with our pastors and elders—ask questions, share thoughts, or get to know one another. Whatever is on your heart, we’d love to hear from you. Coffee and pastries will be provided. Everyone is invited for this Q&A session.
High School Winter Camp: Registration is Open
February 13th-15th, 2026
All 9th–12th grade students are invited to Winter Camp 2026, where we’ll focus on enduring seasons of suffering by remembering God’s faithfulness. Students will study Hannah’s story in 1 Samuel 1:1–2:11, connect in small groups, and enjoy games and fellowship. The Cost is $150 per student, with discounts and scholarships available. Early bird pricing ends January 14.
Ladies Bible Studies
Throughout the year, Bethany offers ongoing and short-term Ladies Bible Studies that meet at various times throughout the week. We have morning, afternoon, and evening classes. Several options are available for you to study God’s Word. This semester we’ll be offering studies on Proverbs and Ephesians.
NYC Spread Truth Trip
This summer, July 17–25, we have an exciting short-term evangelistic trip opportunity with Spread Truth. This ministry focuses on sharing the gospel in meaningful, conversational ways throughout New York City. If you’re interested in learning more or applying to be part of the team, visit bethanycentral.org/nyc26. If you have questions, you can contact Jake Tourtillott at jake@bethanycentral.org.
Wednesday Activities this Week
All Wednesday activities resume this week (January 7), except the family meal, which begins next week. Youth Group will meet off-site on January 7 from 6–8 PM at Elevate in Peoria. Participants will need a signed waiver and $12 to attend.
The Master's Touch
Sunday, January 4th, 9:15 am
The Master’s Touch invites everyone to join them for their new series starting January 4, exploring what the Bible has to say about Heaven. They will be looking at common questions people have about our new home and what to expect about where believers will spend eternity. The class meets in room 805-806.
