About Bethel
Our Welcome Statement
We welcome you to Bethel. We see you as we see ourselves, vulnerable to the challenges of human relationships, and deeply beloved by God.
We welcome you who have ever felt excluded by the church because of race, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental ability, family or economic status, or for a reason known only to you. We welcome you whether church life is familiar to you or your faith journey is new, whether you are certain in your beliefs or unsure what you believe.
We invite you here because God is inviting you to be here. Striving to create a place where all feel safe and can find peace, let us share the unconditional love of God and, in the power of the Holy Spirit, work together to extend grace, mercy, and justice – within Bethel, in our communities, and the world.
Our Mission
Jesus loves you. Walk with Him.
Our Vision
Worship
Connecting people to Jesus through worship, praise and thanksgiving.
Community
Building a Christ-focused community. Recognizing all people as created and loved by God. Devoted to learning, fellowship and prayer.
Learning
Growing faith in Christ through learning about God and His will for us.
Serving
Bringing peace to weary souls through Jesus. Love and comfort those who are hurting. Being Christ in the world through outreach and service.
Future
Building the next generation of believers through nurturing youth and family.
Our Story
Learn about the history of our congregation, from our founding in 1865 to today. Learn more
Our Denomination
Bethel is a part of a larger group of churches called the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, or ELCA. Learn more
Property Resources Team
The Property Resource Team exists to equip the members for the work of ministry by overseeing the development and stewardship of the property resources of Bethel.
Financial Resources Team
The Financial Resources Team exists to equip the members for the work of ministry through faithful financial stewardship.
Human Resources Team
The Human Resource Team exists to equip the members for the work of ministry by overseeing the development and stewardship of the human resources of Bethel.
Bethel Horizons
Bethel Horizons is located on more than 548 acres bordering Governor Dodge State Park. Our mission is to develop and perpetuate a physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual environment which will strengthen and enhance the understanding of a person’s proper relation to nature, to self, to others and to God. Horizons also offers meals and overnight accommodations for those attending our programs.
For all inquiries regarding camp retreat registration email bethelhorizons@bethelhorizons.org or call 608.257-3577.
Historic Steensland House Apartments
The Steensland House Service-Focused Community is ideal for individuals with a passion for community engagement. It is the place for you to meet others interested in giving back to the community. It is fun, engaging, and will help you feel at home here in Madison! A welcoming sense of community will foster friendships among participants in addition to the Steensland House Service-Focused Community offering a strong focus on involvement in organizations serving Madison.