Move-in Day!

The Bethel University community welcomed about 775 freshmen and transfer students to campus during Welcome Week from August 28-September 1. The schedule began with President Jay Barnes and his wife, Barb, greeting new students and their parents as the families drove onto campus. The welcome continued as about 100 returning students ushered the new students to their residence halls, complete with unloading vehicles and carrying their belongings to their rooms. The tradition includes signs, cheers, and even lions – the Bethel mascot – on rollerblades.

Bethel then hosted a picnic and kickoff celebration for new students and their families. Other Welcome Week highlights include: Celebration and Commitment Service on Saturday morning to provide a time of prayer for new students and their families; The Show on Saturday night to offer a humorous look at the Bethel community through skits, videos, and musical/dance numbers; and Koinonia on Sunday evening to wrap up the orientation with a communion service to celebrate and dedicate the upcoming school year.