Traditions

Over the years, Bethel has developed great history and many traditions.

Rivalry

The Royals’ football team has a widely known and well-publicized rivalry with St. John’s. Because both teams are top contenders in the MIAC, the Bethel campus comes alive when the teams face off. Often, Bethel fans rush the field to celebrate after a BU victory.

The Rock

The Rock is located in front of Nelson Hall and Arden Village West, and students have taken it upon themselves to uphold the tradition of spray painting it to represent their class or dorm. The Rock has been painted too many times to count, and new designs are always appreciated by everyone on campus.

Homecoming

No one does homecoming like Bethel! During homecoming week, every dorm comes together to compete in a variety of events, including the Homecoming Cheer, the Cram-the-Car contest, the Tug-of-War competition, and more. School spirit is a must during homecoming, and the winning dorm gets a prize and bragging rights for the year.

Gadkin

One weekend every fall, the men of Bethel get the opportunity to take a Bethel woman on a three-part date organized by Bethel. Date activities have included events like Valleyfair, sleigh rides, dancing, and much more. Maybe you’ll find love, maybe you’ll get to know a friend better, but you will for sure have an awesome time.

Nikdag

In the spring, roles get reversed and the women of Bethel get the chance to take the Bethel men on a three-part date. A lot of spring activities are done during this weekend, and it can be a help for the “Ring by Spring” hopefuls around campus.

Welcome Week

Freshmen and incoming students will never feel as welcome as they do when they arrive at Bethel. Their experience starts with a welcome week crew rushing to their cars to carry everything in for them, and continues with unique dorm and class activities throughout the week. A major highlight of the week is “The Show,” a special program put on all members of the welcome week crew.

Giving

We are called to be a generous community. As Royals, we are known for our generous nature.
Proverbs 11:24 says that “One man gives freely and gains even more; another withholds but comes to poverty.” As believers we are not called to store up treasures, but to pass them along and to help those in need.

President Barnes says that we first give because we have been blessed. We also give in order to advance the mission of a place—Bethel—that we believe in. We give to honor the sacrifice of others, and lastly, we give to increase our joy. There is real joy in giving, and God designed us to feel this joy.