Week 14 - Bethel Community United Methodist Church

Open Hearts...Open Minds...Open Doors...

Week 14 is in honor of my mother's birthday and all of the work she does for her local community church. Bethel Community United Methodist Church is a tiny church in the rural community of Griswold CT. With a membership on the books of under 50 and only about 20 active, the church struggles to stay afloat and still offer services to the community.

A small and dedicated group of people work hard to provide a popular pasta supper once a month. They host occasional community flea markets and craft fairs. On opening day of fishing season, they have a fisherman's breakfast to welcome all the fisherman who arrive in the spring to our lake community. In the summer, they have a fishing derby for the kids that has been a great success and a lot of fun for families. Each fish the kids catch is measured and prizes are awarded for the biggest fish and the most fish caught.

The church itself is a historic building constructed in 1832. Black walnut on chestnut pews were added in 1866 which are still in use today. In 1932, the stables were removed to make room for cars and the church bell was added in 1912. The building sits atop a hill surrounded by beautiful New England woods.

The mission of "Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors" is very appealing to me. In the midst of so many fundamentalist religious organizations that spread hatred and disapproval of others, it is refreshing to hear only talk of acceptance and love.

For more information about the church, please visit their website, website.

My donation this week cannot be matched because it is a religious organization.