Previous | Next 

Hepburn, Sask.
Bethany celebrates 75 years of God’s faithfulness


This year marks not only the 75th anniversary of Bethany Bible Institute in Hepburn, Sask., but also a name change of the school to Bethany College. Bethany is part of Saskatchewan’s rich Mennonite history. It is cosponsored by the Mennonite Brethren churches of Alberta and Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Evangelical Mennonite Mission Conference.


At the turn of the 20th century, Mennonite Brethren churches began springing up in what later became the province of Saskatchewan. Coming mostly from the US, MB immigrants organized themselves in 1909 as the Northern District Conference, which was divided into the Rosthern and Herbert regions. The need for church-related schools to help youth retain the German language and train church workers was identified.

In 1926–27, an opportunity for a school at Hepburn came when the village built a new four-room public school, and the old L-shaped two-room school, along with three-and-an-half acres of land, became available for $2000. Begun with Bible classes at Hepburn MB Church, the school Bethany was born. The 1930s were difficult years. In 1937, a year of total crop failure, fees were kept to a minimum; registration cost $15, board $6 a month and room $2 to $3 a month.

Several key things happened in the 1940s and early 1950s: There was an unparalleled thrust into foreign missions; German gradually faded from the classroom; Bethany launched a 15-minute radio program Gospel Echoes (1951); and the North Saskatchewan District erected a Quonset-type auditorium (60’ x 120’) on campus in time to host the Canadian MB Conference (1953).

In 1958, Herbert Bible School and Bethany Bible Institute were amalgamated. In 1960, another residence with several lots adjoining the campus was bought, bringing Bethany’s total land holdings to 13.5 acres.


In 1968, Bethany amalgamated with Alberta MB Bible Institute of Coaldale. The wider support base through amalgamation allowed several large construction projects to proceed during the 1970s. A much-needed boys’ dorm was completed in 1969. The Administration Building and Library were connected to the Music Centre in 1972. The Ladies’ West Court was built in 1974. The Men’s West Court was built in 1979.

In 1977, a decision was made to seek accreditation with the American Association of Bible Colleges (AABC). After several extensive self-studies and evaluations, the attempt was abandoned in 1986, and a decision was made to remain a Bible Institute. The process helped Bethany to clarify its purpose and pursue its mission, “to equip men and women with a sound knowledge of the Scriptures and to encourage them to demonstrate their love for God through a life of obedience and service.” The school also obtained its own charter and was given authority by an Act of the Saskatchewan Legislature to grant degrees.

Since 1988, the school has offered a two-year Diploma of Biblical Studies. Upon completion of a third year, which has a much stronger ministry component, students can obtain a Bachelor of Christian Ministries Degree. The years of 1980 to 1982 saw Bethany’s highest enrollment of approximately 198 students. Bethany’s latest and largest dormitory, the 70-bed Ladies Centre Court, was built in 1983.

In 1991, James Nickel became Bethany’s 11th president. Under his leadership, the school initiated an over $1 million gym/auditorium project, Bethany Place, which was completed in 1994. In 1995, veteran staff and alumnus Doug Berg became the 12th president. A new curriculum containing seven different tracks of study was also introduced.

In 1996, Bethany decided to continue the accreditation process. Saskatchewan Evangelical Mennonite Mission Churches joined and identified Bethany as their school. Bethany began a publishing division that lasted for four years, publishing resources for camps and churches.

Rick Schellenberg, former Student Life Director, became Bethany’s 13th president in 1999. Highlights in this new millennium include receiving accreditation status with AABC, developing a new four-year program and implementing a one-year program focused on experiencing God. Bethany’s mortgage for Bethany Place was paid, and a new men’s common place/lounge that will join the two men’s dorms is being planned.

Bethany will hold a 75th-anniversary celebration July 20–21. The weekend will begin with the President’s Banquet on Saturday afternoon, with a special focus to raise funds for a new men’s common area/lounge. This will be followed by a concert with David Meece in the evening. On Sunday morning, there will be a special community celebration service followed by a barbecue. There will also be activities, games and sports for all ages.

 – a Bethany release

Previous | Next 

Last modified July 19, 2002.

© 2002 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
Masthead and usage information.