Bethel University Freshmen Begin With Support to Community
Bethel Freshmen posed at their volunteer work detail at Christian Care Center of McKenzie.
Bethel cheerleaders welcoming new students to participate in student activities.
Bethel Methodist Wesley Foundation, a Methodist student organization – Rachel Nzeno, of the Congo, Brooke Cagle of Jackson, Ashley Powers of Milan, and Ashley Richmond of Memphis at the Freshman Carnival asking new students to join, worship and serve with them.
A few of the nearly 400 freshmen who assisted their new community through service projects.
Bethel’s Global Studies Group – Kelsey Hayes of Benton, Kentucky, Emma Koelling of Jefferson City, Missouri, Kayley Grisham of McKenzie, Amber Putt of McKenzie, Sami Rash of Greenfield, Natalie Marvel of Harrisburg, Illinois, and Stacie Freeman, advisor at the Freshman Carnival inviting new students to travel.
Painting the sign at Friendly Church of God in Christ as part of Freshmen Orientation.
McKENZIE — Bethel University freshmen started their collegiate career by assisting the people of McKenzie.
Garrett Burns, associate chaplain of Bethel University said the incoming students partnered in 20 groups of approximately 20 students each to do good work throughout McKenzie. The effort is part of Bethel’s emphasis of service to God and the community.
“We are blessed beyond measure! God’s timing is perfect. This year, the incoming freshmen class were challenged to do good works all across McKenzie. Our community needs the love of Christ embodied and these students rose to the occasion,” said Associate Chaplain Burns. “In all, they served at 15 different sites to include the First United Methodist Church, United Neighbors, the City of McKenzie, Children’s Network Daycare, Friendly Church of God in Christ, Greater Enon Baptist Church, Christian Care Center, First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, McKenzie Healthcare, Carroll County Humane Society, Lakeside Retirement Home, Overflow Church, blankets for the Linus Project and Caris Healthcare, and a few private homes.
“We were all blessed and pray God was glorified in the process! Pray for us as we reflect on our work and worship God together in chapel,” said Burns.
The mission was in cooperation with the College Orientation Experience and Bethel’s Chaplain’s office.
On Saturday evening, the businesses, churches, and groups were honored to return the favor to the freshmen. During the Freshman Blast, the students enjoyed meeting individuals from the businesses as they lined the one-way streets in front of Campbell Hall. Returning students, representing student groups, also welcomed the incoming students.
The university began classes on Monday, August 20.