Bethany Christian Services Reinforces Its Christian Identity and Faith Commitments

Grand Rapids, Mich.  – Bethany Christian Services announced today that its Board of Directors has voted to take intentional steps to clarify and reinforce the Christian faith commitments and beliefs that have shaped its mission, culture, and work for more than 80 years. Founded in 1944, Bethany exists to demonstrate the love and compassion of Jesus Christ by protecting children, empowering youth, and strengthening families through quality social services. 

“As a Christian ministry, our faith is not simply one aspect of our work, it is the reason we exist,” said Maegan Schwindling, Bethany Christian Services Board Chair. “While Bethany’s programs and services have grown and adapted over time, its historic Christian foundation has remained central to why the organization exists and how it serves. In this season, Bethany’s board and Executive Leadership Team are taking steps to ensure our culture, policies, and practices clearly reflect the Biblical principles that have guided Bethany since our founding.”

At the heart of this effort, Bethany is expanding and reaffirming its Statement of Faith and Belief, which will include both the Apostles’ Creed and longstanding Biblical principles previously affirmed by the organization. All staff and board members will be asked to personally agree and adhere to this statement. Additionally, Bethany will continue its longstanding partnership with the church to find foster families whose beliefs and practices align with our organization’s faith and Christian mission.    

“Clarity around our Christian identity is essential to our Christian witness and critical to the long-term health, sustainability, and impact of our mission,” said Keith Cureton, Bethany Christian Services CEO. “We believe this clarity strengthens our ministry, honors those we serve, and reinforces alignment with partners who share our faith convictions.”

Bethany remains committed to providing compassionate, high-quality services rooted in respect, dignity, and care for every person it serves. The organization will continue to serve all children and families who seek its help, regardless of their individual circumstances, beliefs, or background. Bethany will do so motivated by its Christian faith and in accordance with its sincerely held Christian beliefs.

For more information about Bethany Christian Services and its mission, visit Bethany.org.

Bethany Christian Services is a faith-based nonprofit in over 25 U.S. states dedicated to helping children and families thrive. Our mission to demonstrate the love and compassion of Jesus through exceptional social services shapes our commitment to walk alongside children and families with dignity, empathy, and hope.