04/16/2026
We’re writing to share an update about Living the Questions, Bethel’s Youth Theology Institute for high school students.
For the past decade (2016–2026), Living the Questions has been a space where students could ask honest questions, build meaningful relationships, and explore what it looks like to follow God in today’s world. Through summer programs, retreats, leadership experiences, and Youth Crew, students were invited into conversations at the intersection of faith, justice, science, and media—and encouraged to live out what they were learning.
Over the years, we have seen meaningful impact across Bethel and beyond. Together, this initiative has:
Reached more than 2,500 middle and high school students through programs and events
Partnered with over 140 local churches, strengthening connections between Bethel and the broader faith community
Equipped 185 Bethel students to serve as leaders, mentors, and facilitators
Engaged more than 100 high school students in immersive summer theological experiences
Supported 41 students in year-long leadership development through mentoring, service, and retreats, with 15 going on to enroll at Bethel University
Built partnerships with faith-based organizations and nonprofits to create hands-on service opportunities
Living the Questions was made possible through the generous support of Lilly Endowment grants totaling $484,852, along with additional support from Bethel and other partners. We are deeply grateful for this investment, which allowed the program to flourish and grow over nearly a decade.
As this grant period has come to an end, Living the Questions is now concluding. This decision comes after careful discernment about long-term sustainability, staffing, and institutional priorities. It is not a reflection of the program’s impact—in fact, that impact is clear and lasting.
What began here continues forward. Living the Questions alumni are serving in churches, pursuing justice-centered callings, and continuing their theological education. Faculty and staff are carrying these practices into classrooms and other initiatives. And the core vision—creating space for young people to ask, seek, and grow—remains deeply aligned with Bethel’s mission.
We are incredibly thankful for everyone who made Living the Questions what it was—students, families, church partners, mentors, faculty, staff, and student leaders. It has been a meaningful and faithful chapter in the life of Bethel.
Thank you for being part of this story.
Katie Friesen Smith, Director
Barrett Fisher, Interim Dean CASE
