WHO WE ARE
Mission
Bethlehem UMC's purpose is to love persons into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Vision
Bethlehem UMC is honored to be one of the oldest churches in Hamilton County. We began 180 years ago and moved to our current location in 1912. We are well established in this community! With this solid foundation, we plan to be here for all who want to love Christ for many years to come.
We believe we are called to provide a home of faith and friendship for those who are seeking a church family with Jesus Christ at the center. We care for each other and for the world around us. All are welcomed warmly and encouraged to participate in our church events as a way to enjoy each other’s fellowship. Our weekly family-friendly services offer traditional hymns and Methodism teachings. We welcome you to experience Christ's love here at Bethlehem United Methodist Church.
Lead Pastor: Reverend Joel Troxell
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Even though it has been almost nine months since I was appointed the pastor at Bethlehem UMC, it was about a year ago that I wandered in to attend Sunday worship. BUMC had been that small, traditional-looking church that looked out of place in the bustle of traffic and building projects around Olio Road. Little did I know what God had in store! So, I thought this might be a good time to list some of the things I’ve seen in my time here at Bethlehem UMC:
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On my first Sunday in attendance as a visitor, I was greeted with a handshake. I had spent the past few months visiting several churches in the Fishers area, and that was the first handshake I’d been offered in quite some time.
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BUMC is a church committed to preserving tradition. At my take-in, I was asked theological questions – important theological questions - I don’t think I’ve ever been asked at a take-in before.
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BUMC is a church committed to relationships with one another. Every time someone expresses a prayer need or a struggle, the people of this church are there for one another in tangible ways.
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BUMC is a church committed to mission. Not only have I seen faithful giving when it comes to our monthly mission focus, but any time a need arises in our community or elsewhere, the people of BUMC are quick to respond generously.
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BUMC is a church committed to service. Whether it is selling corn dogs at Spark or feeding young people rehearsing for Bravo Productions, this is a church that understands that service is central to following Jesus Christ.
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BUMC is a joyful church! I have never seen a group of people who spend time on Sunday mornings laughing as much as we do!
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BUMC is a studying church. I’m impressed by the number of books of the Bible that people have gone through verse-by-verse on Wednesday evenings!
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Finally, BUMC is a church that keeps Jesus Christ at the center of all we do.
As your pastor, I want to thank all of you for allowing me to serve alongside you the past few months. It is a privilege and a blessing to be able to do so.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Joel Troxell, Jennifer Troxell, and all the kids.
Contact Pastor Joel at pastor.bumcfishersin@gmail.com.