“En effet l\u0155 ou deux ou trois sont rassembl\u00e9s en mon nom je suis au milieu d\u2019eux” words of Christ echo through the \u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie. This \u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie is not just a building. It is a vibrant community hub nestled in the 20th arrondissement of Paris.
\u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie stands at 185 rue des Pyr\u00e9n\u00e9es. It is a parish of the United Protestant Church of France. This church has a rich history and a welcoming spirit.
The temple of \u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie was built in 1904. F\u00e9lix Paumier was the architect. He designed it with schools on each side. In 1907 the parish became autonomous. It separated from the Belleville parish. This was thanks to Pastor Sully Lombard’s leadership. An interesting fact is that the Cavaill\u00e9-Coll organ was bought in 1916. It came from the Protestant temple of l’\u00c9toile.
\u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie offers more than Sunday services. Regular events foster community and spiritual growth. Every Thursday at 6 PM there is a time for prayer. This allows people to share joys and sorrows. They can also pray for others. Once a month, a group prayer is held.
Meditation musicale is held on Saturdays. It offers a pause for true refreshment. The music played by a violinist alternates with prayerful words. This creates a serene atmosphere.
The d\u00e9jeuner culturel is another unique event. It is held on Wednesdays. People share lunch while discussing culture. This includes travel experiences, films, and books. It is an opportunity for mutual enrichment in fellowship.
Th\u00e9o-caf\u00e9 takes place on Saturday mornings. People gather to discuss a chosen topic. They also enjoy breakfast together. This fosters a strong sense of fraternity.
\u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie also has activities like Bible study and a “Th\u00e9 de l’Amiti\u00e9”. “Les heures culturelles de B\u00e9thanie” offer concerts and geopolitical conferences.
The \u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie originally called the “temple de Charonne” was built on land donated by Pastor Robin de Belleville. Its first pastor was Sully Lombard. It became the Evangelical Reformed Church of B\u00e9thanie in 1907.
The first building included a temple and two wings. These wings housed classrooms for boys and girls. \u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie has remained a neighborhood parish. It embraces diversity. The parish has participated in debates within the Reformed Church. It shows dynamism.
\u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie embodies the spirit of the Reformed Church of France. It is a minority presence in a secular society. Yet, it is deeply rooted and missionary-minded.
The \u00c9cole du dimanche and catechism take place on Sunday mornings. They are for children and teenagers. A schedule is sent to families in September.
\u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie offers a welcoming space. It promotes spiritual growth. It serves as a testament to faith in the heart of Paris.
Today the \u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie continues to evolve. It embraces its role as a community anchor. It remains committed to its mission. The \u00c9glise B\u00e9thanie stands as a beacon of faith hope and fellowship.