Bethesda Pastors and Church Staff

At Bethesda, we are passionate about the beautiful collisions that occur when God encounters broken people like us with a grace that explodes into joy, wholeness, and generous service. We cherish the Good News of Jesus Christ and count it a great privilege to serve among the people of Bethesda and our surrounding community.

Below, please meet our pastor and staff, and check out our Preschool page to meet more! But this amazing church is cared for by dozens of volunteers who help with everything from leading youth groups, to making sure kids and families get enough clothing and food. There’s a place for you here, too. God will put your gifts and love for others to good work at Bethesda! Join us. You belong here.

Pastor Tom Welch

Nice to meet you! I’ve served as Bethesda’s pastor since 2011. Youth ministry originally connected me to this wonderful congregation via a partnership with Young Life and the Youth Director position I held from 2002-2008. Even though I wear many hats as pastor now, I am a proud youth worker for life.

Everyone in our family but me has grown up here. Andrea is a born and raised Bethel girl and Willamette Wolverine. We have been blessed with four sons: Ezra (’12), Judah (’13), Emet (’15), and Abel (’21). You can imagine we are never bored at home!

I’m grateful for this congregation that is diverse across ages and worship styles, proud of our heritage and open to new opportunities to live out God’s purpose.

I hope we can meet in person soon!