Local churches filled tables in the Brushaber Commons atrium. Freshmen and seniors alike walked from table to table to learn about different local churches and young adult nights.
Bethel University hosted their annual Church Connections Fair yesterday from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. 34 churches pitched why Bethel students should attend their church. Bethel students shared why they were there and what they were looking for, besides the free candy.
“I’m here because I think it’s important to be in community,” senior Nissi Babalola said. “Bethel does a really good job at that.”
Babalola was accompanied by juniors Jesica Amegatse and Misgana Mamo as they filled their arms with free ramen, chips and sparkling water. The three upperclassmen walked together to hear about communities and young adult groups.
A couple of freshmen listened to pastors at the tables, as they had moved away from their home church and were on the hunt for a church close to Bethel. Friends Hannah Bock and London West were among this crowd, looking for a church home for their first year at Bethel.
“I’m not from around here,” West, originally from Colorado, said. “So I want a good community with services that reach younger people.”
Although Bock and West are not roommates, they are both studying exercise science and are in it together as they try to find “community” in this new location.
A few tables away, senior Harrison Nistler talked with pastors to find a church to intern at. For the past few years, Nistler ended up going where other people went, now with his major in missional ministries he has a different reason for attending this fair.
“I’m looking for a church with that small-town feel,” Nistler said. “One that feels close to home.”
Growing up in McGregor, MN – a northern town in Aitkin County with a population of 378 – brought a different feel than many of the churches in Minneapolis.
Bethel’s Church Connections Fair brought in churches from different denominations, languages and mission statements.
“I think this is one of the things that makes Bethel special,” Babalola said. “We don’t have to go search for [a church].”
