Bethany Fellows Visit WACC
In early July, Rev. Melanie Harrell Delaney reached out with a request: could WACC host a “Wise Practice Site” visit from Bethany Fellows on Tuesday, September 22?
For context, Bethany Fellows is a dynamic community that supports, encourages, and renews young clergy serving in local congregations. A Wise Practice visit typically includes a tour of the church building (fellows often gain creative inspiration from seeing other spaces), informal conversation about ministry, and a Q&A focused on the practical realities of church leadership in a specific context.
After speaking with Rev. Delaney, we decided on a dialogue format featuring Mark Mathes (Chair of the Elders), Lauri Warfield (Chair of the Board), and myself. Together, we reflected on four guiding questions:
- How would you describe the “personality” of the congregation? What makes this community unique?
- What are the strongest ministries of the church, and how have they evolved over time?
- When has the congregation experienced a significant transition? What prompted it, and how did discernment unfold? What helped—or hindered—the process? Were there creative responses that stood out?
- Where do you see the Spirit at work right now?
Earlier in the week, Lauri, Mark, and I met to prepare thoughtful responses that would shape our conversation with the Fellows. Here are Lauri and Mark’s reflections from the visit:
Lauri Warfield:
It was an honor to be part of the Bethany Fellows visit. Reflecting on the personality of our church, I shared how the Just Values workshop, led by Bar McClure, helped us articulate who we are. Our top four values—equality/liberation, adaptability/flexibility, knowledge/insight, and accountability/ethics—reflect a maturing faith community that deeply values discipleship.
I spoke about our commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals through after-worship book studies, the Safe Zone program, and Pride celebrations. We also practice meaningful outreach, both locally and beyond, such as the medical debt relief initiative.
One major transition came during the time of the letters—a season marked by shock, grief, and deep reflection. In that moment, the Spirit led us not only to accept the departure of those who left but to respond with kindness and blessings for their continued journey of faith.
Today, I see the Spirit moving through Sunday worship, nursing home visits, Green Chalice efforts, food and school supply collections, and the beautiful contributions of our LGBTQ+ musicians and guests.
At the end of the visit, Rev. Delaney invited a closing prayer and a laying on of hands. The group surrounded Mark, Pastor Nathan, and me, and prayed—not in vague generalities, but specifically and powerfully for us and for WACC. It was one of the most meaningful prayers I’ve ever experienced.
Mark Mathes:
The time we spent with the Bethany Fellows was everything I’d hoped it would be—a rich moment of evangelism and outreach. We had the chance to share how closely our pastor and lay leadership work together, and how that partnership allows us to face challenges with grace, insight, and mercy.
The Fellows asked thoughtful and challenging questions. Some we answered confidently; others gave us new things to ponder. The closing prayer—when they laid hands on us—was deeply moving. It affirmed that our time together had made an impact. I left with confidence that the spirit of WACC will ripple outward into churches across the country.
Following the visit, Rev. Delaney texted me:
“Thanks again for a great morning! My car had some great conversations and reflections on the way back! They felt encouraged in knowing WACC is small in numbers but big in impact.”
On behalf of the congregation, we offered a faithful witness to the very best, most beautiful, gospel-good news of Jesus Christ. The clergy who gathered with us will carry that encouragement and inspiration back into their own communities.
God is doing good work in and through us, dear church. Thanks be to God!
DOXOLOGY!
Pastor Nathan