Frequently asked Questions

Q What kind of place is Bethel Colony?
A Bethel Colony is a Christian renewal center designed to help those who really want
to change their lives. Victory in Jesus and the truths of the Bible are taught here.

Q What must I do to enroll?
A You may fill out an application online or call 828-754-3781 to complete an application over the phone.  You will need to have a TB test and an HIV test. Results of one or the other are required before you can be placed on the active waiting list. Both test results are required before you will be called to come to Bethel Colony of Mercy.

Q How long is the waiting list?
A The office manager will call you when a bed is available. (may be 3-4 weeks) You will be given 48 hours notice to come in.

Q How much does it cost?
A There is an entry fee of $65.00.

Q How long is the program?
A 65 days

Q Can I stay longer than 65 days?
A The initial program is for 65 days. If, at the end of 65 days, it is determined by one of the three pastors on staff that you need to stay longer, you may extend for 30 days.

Q How many men do you have at one time?
A Capacity is 62 men.

Q What are your visitation policies?
A All visits must be pre-approved by staff.

Parents and Wives
• Saturdays from 2:30pm until 10:00pm
• Sundays from breakfast until 6:00pm (student must attend Sunday morning service. Family is encouraged to attend with student. Counseling is available for couples if requested.)
 

Fiancées (must be engaged with a ring)
• Saturdays from 2:30pm until 8:30pm ( counseling) is available if requested)
•Sundays from breakfast until 6:00pm (student must attend Sunday morning service. Fiancée is encouraged to attend with student.)

Girlfriends
•Girlfriends are not allowed!  This is a time the student needs to focus on overcoming his problems and developing a relationship with the Lord.  Exception:  Girlfriends who have children fathered by the student may bring those children to visit their father.

Q How much money can I bring?
A All of your basic needs are met while at Bethel Colony of Mercy. There is a canteen
on campus where you may purchase soft drinks, candy, popcorn, and other snacks.
$20.00 should be sufficient. If you want to bring more than that, there is a safe available, but we do not recommend that you bring large sums of money.

Q What kind of clothes should I bring?
A You will need work clothes (clothes, including shoes, that you don't mind getting dirty) and dress clothes for church services. Suits are not necessary for church, but nice shirts and slacks are recommended. No slogans about beer, bars, drugs, sex, women, tobacco, music or anything that is contrary to a Christian lifestyle will be allowed..

Q What personal items should/can I bring?
A You should bring the following items:

• A Bible (if you have one)
• Towels and washcloths (use a laundry marker to identify them)
• Pillow
• Personal toiletries such as shaving cream, razor blades, toothbrush and toothpaste, etc.

You may not bring the following:
• Cologne or mouthwash that contains alcohol
• Aerosol sprays
• Clothing with slogans about beer, bars, drugs, sex, women, tobacco, music or anything that is contrary to a Christian lifestyle
• Radios, stereos, walkmans or tape decks of any size, beepers, pagers, cell phones or any other electronic device
• Magazines, books, audio tapes, video tapes, video games or playing cards
• Caffeinated drinks including coffee
• Over the counter medications

Q Does the program really work?
A If you really want to change your life then Bethel Colony of Mercy is the place for
you. It is not the program that works; it is Jesus Christ that works in and through you to change your life for all eternity! You just need to be willing.

Q Where are you located?
A Click here for map and directions

Q Can I smoke while at Bethel Colony of Mercy?
A Cigarette smoking is strongly discouraged ; however, it is allowed in designated areas and at designated times only. No other form of tobacco is allowed.

Q What forms of recreation do you have?
A There is a gymnasium for basketball and a weight room. We have volleyball, shuffle board, and horseshoes. Board games are available in the library. Softball is often played on Sunday afternoons at a nearby field. Selected television viewing is available at designated times.

Q What is the daily routine like?
A For a detailed schedule of each day's activities, click here.