Over the past year, Bethany leadership has been prayerfully discerning the future of Bethany Eastside and evaluating its long-term health and sustainability. After thoughtful prayer, discernment, and consultation, Bethany Council voted in May to conclude weekly worship gatherings at Bethany Eastside.
Throughout this season, the Eastside congregation, staff, and leadership faithfully invested in the life and future of the location. While there was deep commitment, care, and hope for renewed growth, the attendance and sustainability needed to support a thriving weekly worship community were not realized.
Over the past two weeks, members of the Eastside congregation have begun visiting Bethany North and Bethany Northeast as they discern where God is leading them next. Last Sunday marked Eastside's final weekly gathering — a meaningful and tender time of worship, reflection, and fellowship. The congregation worshiped together, shared a potluck meal, celebrated the many ways God has worked through Bethany Eastside over the years, told stories, honored memories, and made space to grieve this transition together with honesty, gratitude, and hope.
Bethany leadership remains deeply committed to caring for the Eastside community during this season of transition. We are supporting congregants as they find their next church home, creating opportunities for continued connection and belonging, and walking closely alongside Eastside staff with care and support.
We invite the broader Bethany community to join us in praying for the Eastside congregation, staff, and leadership as they navigate this season together. We are grateful for the lasting impact of Bethany Eastside and trust that God will continue to guide and care for this community in the days ahead.