Church Relations

Bethel and Converge

Equipping 21st-century leaders who address the world’s greatest challenges with confidence, conviction, and compassion.

For more than a century, Converge has partnered in ministry with Bethel University and Bethel Seminary. Bethel combines transformative academics with a vibrant, Christ-guided community to empower students to discover their passions, pursue their purpose, and make a meaningful impact in their careers and lives—wherever God is calling them. Join us!

Monthly spotlight

We’re committed to helping students grow in their faith throughout their college experience and believe being part of a local church is an important part of that!

Join us on campus on September 10, 2026, for the annual Church Connection Fair. This event gives your church the opportunity to connect with hundreds of Bethel students who are looking for a church home in the Twin Cities. Share what makes your church unique, introduce students to your ministries, and invite them to get involved.

Transformative academics

Across early college/PSEO, undergraduate, online, seminary, and graduate programs, students find opportunities to pursue their purpose and discover their passion. Bethel's transformative academics are taught from a Christ-guided perspective that empowers students to propel their lives forward and make an impact.

Undergrad

Students experience a vibrant community where they belong, engaged faculty, and hands-on learning opportunities—all so they can become who they are called to be. We invite you and your congregation to join us! Be part of this community and the life transformation happening.

Seminary

Through an integrated approach to biblical and theological study, spiritual and personal formation, and leadership development, we prepare ministry leaders for real ministry contexts. We invite you and your congregation to engage—on campus and from a distance!—and expand your impact!

Resources and support

Through ministry resources, learning opportunities, and connections with Bethel students, we can support the work God is already doing in your community. Invite Bethel students to engage with your youth, bring your youth group to campus, or explore resources designed to encourage and equip your ministry.

Preaching support

Get help crafting effective, meaningful sermons.

Preaching Coach Program

Receive one-on-one coaching sessions.

Youth group opportunities

Encourage, motivate, and empower your youth in their walk with Christ.

Vespers pizza parties

Worship, pizza, and fellowship!

170 Days of Prayer

Students, pastors, church leaders, and community members gathered at Bethel University for an evening of worship and prayer celebrating the university’s longstanding partnership with Converge and a shared commitment to raising up future Christian leaders.

Karlson Scholar

The Karlson Scholar program builds a partnership between Bethel Seminary and influential evangelical leaders. Author, speaker, and professor Karen Swallow Prior was selected as the 2025-2026 year’s scholar.

Alum Spotlight

Travis Jensen '24 is founder of Travco Christian Streetwear, a faith-based apparel brand sold in three retail stores, all 50 states, and 13 countries. He’s also the owner of Travco Prints, a custom screen printing and embroidery business serving churches, camps, and ministries.

Hispanic Bible seminars

For ten years, Bethel’s Spanish-language Bible seminars have brought together Hispanic pastors, ministry leaders, students, and families—fostering theological learning, leadership development, and community.

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Stay connected

Together, we can strengthen churches, support students, and equip the next generation to follow God’s call.

Our partnership is stronger when we stay connected. We’d love to continue coming alongside your church, sharing opportunities to serve together, and finding new ways to support your congregation and ministry. As we deepen our connection, we can help students discover their gifts, grow in faith, and prepare to serve wherever God calls them. We’re grateful to partner with you in this shared work.

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Frequently asked questions

: Bethel University and Converge share a relationship that reaches back more than a century. Rooted in a shared commitment to Christ and the church, our partnership helps prepare students and ministry leaders to pursue their callings and serve with confidence, compassion, and purpose.

: Churches can connect with students through opportunities like the annual Church Connection Fair, campus worship, ministry events, and other partnerships. These connections help students find local church communities where they can worship, serve, and grow throughout their college experience.

: Bethel offers resources designed to equip and encourage ministry leaders, including preaching support, the Preaching Coach Program, Seminary for Everyone, and other learning and ministry opportunities. Explore the resources on this page to find options that fit your ministry.

: There are many ways to stay connected, from bringing a group to campus and attending events to exploring Bethel Seminary opportunities and connecting students with undergraduate programs. Check this page regularly for featured events, resources, and opportunities to engage.