Welcome to Bethesda United Church of Christ

We welcome all without exception as we worship God together, journey in the spirit, and share our gifts with each other, our neighbors, and the world.

As our community and the world struggles with the challenges of Covid-19 and as we try to “flatten the curve” with others, Bethesda United Church of Christ will be suspending in-person worship services and church activities from March 13 through May 3 in an effort to stop the spread of this disease.  Our church building will be temporarily closed, but the community of our hearts remains open. Please stay tuned as we creatively engage in worship here– we will be posting the sermon each week and staying connected using available technology.

Bethesda UCC will return to “in-person” Sunday worship gatherings in May pending the advice of local and state health officials.  In the meantime, please pray for the sick and vulnerable, reach out via email and phone to the isolated, practice compassion and patience, and follow the guidelines for hand washing and safety measures at this time.

*If you are able to access social media, please “like” us on Facebook so that we can keep you up-to-date and you can access our worship there.  We will be posting messages to our visitors and congregants periodically as we are able.  In addition, you will be helping us to spread the Good News, in a time of social distancing.  Thank you for your interest!

God is still evident in this health crisis through the power and presence of individuals just like you who care.  May you be a blessing to others and may you and your loved ones be safe.

Planned virtual events, in addition to our weekly online worship:

April 5  Palm/Passion Sunday/ Sixth Sunday of Lent; Virtual Worship 10:30 a.m. Theme: “Hosanna vs Hallelujah, Celebrate the arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem.

April 9 Maundy Thursday Evening Virtual Service, 7 pm. Please join us for this special service as we “move” thru the last days of Jesus’ life. Our worship includes candlelight, readings, and service of Tenebrae via Zoom. More info will be distributed by the church email as we prepare.

April 12  Easter Service celebrated virtually via FB Live and recording made available on YouTube.  Join us at 10:30 a.m. on the Church’s public FB page as we celebrate Christ’s resurrection in these troubled days!

We Are Open and Affirming!  

As disciples of Jesus, we seek to embody Christ’s extravagant love, and share this love with everyone regardless of race, gender identity, income, age, orientation, or disability. Our building is wheelchair accessible, we provide assisted listening devices, and produce large-print bulletins for our members and guests with diminished vision. We fly a rainbow flag near our doors to boldly attract the attention of passers-by who see that a Christian church is declaring its welcome to LGBT persons.

We are proud of our history on the forefront of progressive change whether it be marching on the Mall with Martin Luther King, Jr., making a commitment to reduce homelessness and hunger around us, or becoming an Open and Affirming church.