Each summer about 500 International Students arrive to live and work in Bethany Beach after securing J-1 Visas for which they must pass English language proficiency tests as well as health and security screenings, and secure jobs.

Every summer St. Martha’s hosts a picnic to help them meet other students; practice English with local residents who often invite them to their homes for dinners; chat with First Responders about health and safety; and try Stand-Up Paddleboard lessons donated by local businesses. Many connections made at our picnic grow into lifelong friendships.

Twice a year groups of 6-8 adults gather monthly for dinner and socializing. Participants are placed in groups that stay together for 4 months: October to January and February to May. Home groups are hosted by a different person/couple each month who provides the drinks and a simple entrée. Others in the group bring the rest of the meal.

In restaurant groups, each month a different person/couple makes arrangements for the restaurant. Dinners are Dutch treat. These dinners give participants a chance to get to know people in a setting away from church. Many lifelong friendships have grown out of these groups.

Movie Nights will be more enjoyable now that our Big Screen is up. Stay tuned to our Calendar to see what movie is next.

Our Game Nights should really be called Food & Fun Nights because we always eat while we play. Either dinner first, or dessert and snacks while we play a variety of games. Pick your favorite. Who knows what’s next? Maybe a chili cook-off? Soup and sandwiches? Come see!

Parishioners volunteer to host coffee hour after each Sunday morning service. Sometimes you’ll find cookies out of the kitchen cupboard. But more often than not there is fresh fruit, cheese and crackers, home baked casseroles and baked goods, a variety of finger foods, and delicious deviled eggs. And coffee, too.

St. Martha’s men meet regularly to eat breakfast or lunch together. There are also some men’s golf groups you can join.