THE LIGHTHOUSE AT BETHANY UMC

A lighthouse casts a light to guide mariners to safety in dangerous waters. The new youth activities building at Bethany United Methodist Church in Austin, appropriately named “The Lighthouse,” is not only full of the light and laughter of 100 active youth throughout the week – it is a beacon of hope for homeless families with children during times of darkness and defeat. For one week, four to five times a year, The Lighthouse and other youth facilities serve as transitional housing as part of the Interfaith Hospitality Network which offers food, shelter, and support as families work toward self-sufficiency.

In addition to the youth facilities, loans from the Texas Methodist Foundation have helped Bethany with major renovations to their sanctuary and fellowship hall. “It sure is fun to partner with a church that has such a strong sense of identity and purpose,” says Robert Hoppe, Vice President of Loans and Real Estate for the Foundation. “Bethany has a history of committed, creative laity and with a visionary pastor like Tom Deviney this congregation will continue to light the way for others for years to come.”