Who are we?
We are women who have heard God call us personally to live a life set apart for him and his kingdom. We live out our response to God’s call through a commitment to intentional singleness—living “single for the Lord”—alongside married couples, families, and single people, as active members of the Sword of the Spirit, an international, ecumenical, charismatic “community of communities.”
Why "Bethany"?
Bethany was more than just a village—it was a home where Jesus was welcomed, loved, and served. It was where Mary poured out her precious ointment on the Lord, an act of complete devotion (Mark 14:3-9; John 12:1-8). Like her, we pour ourselves out in living single for him.
Martha opened her home, served Jesus, and provided rest, while Mary sat at his feet, listening intently (Luke 10:38-39). In them, we see our call to both action and contemplation.
When Lazarus died, Martha boldly declared her faith: “Yes, Lord, I believe you are the Christ” (John 11:27). And when Jesus called for Mary, she responded without hesitation (John 11:28).
Bethany is our inspiration—a place of faith, service, and wholehearted love for the Lord.
What is Our Purpose?
Bethany is more than a name—it represents a place of faith, commitment, and community. Like the Bethany of the Gospel, we seek to welcome the Lord, serve him wholeheartedly, and respond to his call with love and devotion. Through our shared life, we provide support, encouragement, and a vision for women living single for the Lord.
A PLACE OF NURTURING
Supporting each other in nurturing our ideals and being a source of encouragement in pursuing God’s call for our lives.
A PLACE OF WITNESSING
Strengthening the visibility and viability of consecrated single life, inspiring more women to embrace it.
A PLACE OF BUILDING
Helping each other build a pattern of life and creating a context for women LSFL in the SOS which aids the of the nature of our commitments outside the SOS.
A PLACE OF SUPPORTING
Providing a means to support local communities in their care for women as they discern and embrace this ideal.
A PLACE OF GATHERING
Holding conferences and retreats internationally, regionally, and locally to promote spiritual growth and interpersonal relationships.
When did Bethany begin?
Bethany began in 2005 when thirteen women from Sword of the Spirit communities worldwide gathered in Lansing, Michigan. Recognizing a shared vision and desire for deeper connection, we sought a way to support one another in living single for the Lord.
At our second conference in Monterrey, Mexico, in 2007, we decided to form an association dedicated to this purpose. Over the next two years, we worked together to draft a charter outlining our ideals and mission.
In October 2009, at our third conference, seventeen women with lifelong commitments—along with several with full commitments—reviewed and unanimously accepted the final charter, marking the official beginning of the Bethany Association.
What is the ideal we strive for?
A Life Offered to God
We belong to the Lord and desire to live not for ourselves but for him, offering our lives as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1).
A Witness to God’s Love
We testify that God’s love is real and that he alone is enough. Our lives also point to the life to come, where there will be neither marrying nor giving in marriage (Matthew 22:30).
A Commitment to Mission
We dedicate our time, energy, and talents to spreading the gospel, strengthening communities, and supporting the mission of the Sword of the Spirit.
A Sisterhood of Support
As sisters in Christ, we encourage one another, sharing strength and wisdom as we embrace this way of life with faithfulness and joy.
A Freewill Offering of Love
We freely give up marriage and bearing children—holy and valued things—as an offering of love to God. This allows us to live with undivided hearts, devoting ourselves to prayer, service, and simplicity (1 Corinthians 7:34‐35).
A Life of Joyful Surrender
We embrace this call with gratitude, trusting that God’s grace sustains us. In both challenges and blessings, we strive to live with joy, knowing that our lives are a reflection of his faithfulness and love.
What is the meaning of our logo?
The Bethany logo is a simple yet profound symbol of faith and devotion. It seamlessly weaves the image of Mary at Jesus’ feet with the letters b and a, all embraced within a perfume bottle. The rich teal color carries deep biblical meaning—blending the heavenly presence of God (blue) with the renewal and flourishing of life in Him (green). This design embodies the heart of Bethany—a life poured out in love, service, and wholehearted dedication to Christ.
