The New Bedford Port Society

Welcome

Weddings
The Seamen's Bethel is a beautiful place for your wedding ceremony.
Baptisms
Celebrate new beginnings with a baptism in our tranquil and reverent space.
Other Events
We offer a versatile venue that is the perfect setting for any special occasion.
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Savings

Anchored in Tradition

Nestled in the historic port city of New Bedford, Massachusetts, the Seamen’s Bethel stands as a testament to the rich maritime heritage of the region. Established in 1822, this iconic chapel has served as a spiritual haven for generations of mariners, offering solace and guidance to those who braved the open seas. The Bethel’s storied past is interwoven with tales of whaling voyages, intrepid sailors, and a deep-rooted community that has cherished its nautical traditions for nearly two centuries. Immortalized in Herman Melville’s literary masterpiece “Moby-Dick,” the Seamen’s Bethel remains a cherished landmark, preserving the legacy of New Bedford’s seafaring history while continuing to inspire visitors with its timeless Today, the Bethel stands as a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience, honoring the memory of those who ventured into the vast ocean and celebrating the enduring spirit of maritime culture.

The New Bedford Port Society: A Legacy of Maritime Heritage

The New Bedford Port Society proudly preserves the city’s rich maritime heritage through two cherished landmarks: the Seamen’s Bethel and the Mariner’s Home. The iconic Seamen’s Bethel, established in 1822, has long served as a spiritual haven for mariners, offering solace to those who braved the open seas. The Seamen’s Bethel stands as a testament to New Bedford’s storied nautical traditions. Nearby, the Mariner’s Home, established in 1789, provides a welcoming refuge for sailors returning from voyages, honoring the indomitable spirit of seafarers. Together, these landmarks celebrate the city’s maritime legacy and enduring connection to the sea.

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Latest News & Events

Closed For Private Services Saturday, September 30, 2023
Closed For Private Services Saturday, September 30, 2023
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Christmas Candlelight Service December 22, 2019 at 4pm!!
Christmas Candlelight Service December 22, 2019 at 4pm!!
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Closed on Veteran’s Day November 10th-November 11, 2023
Closed on Veteran’s Day November 10th-November 11, 2023
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December 31, 2023 at 5pm-New Year’s Eve-The 22nd Annual Community Inter-Faith Worship Service
December 31, 2023 at 5pm-New Year’s Eve-The 22nd Annual Community Inter-Faith Worship Service
Join the Inter-Church Council here on New Years’ Eve at 5pm! This event is FREE and open to the public.
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December 17, 2023 at 4pm-Christmas Candlelight Service
December 17, 2023 at 4pm-Christmas Candlelight Service
Join us for our annual Christmas Candlelight Service, this event is FREE and open to the public.
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Harvest of The Sea: A Fishermen’s Thanksgiving Service-November 19, 2023 at 3pm
Harvest of The Sea: A Fishermen’s Thanksgiving Service-November 19, 2023 at 3pm
November 19, 2023 at 3pm-  Join Rev. Paul Wheeler from the Trinity Lutheran Church in Fairhaven, as he delivers his touching sermon to get everyone ready for Thanksgiving. Don’t miss this FREE annual event at the Seamen’s Bethel!!
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Fishermen’s Memorial Service
Fishermen’s Memorial Service
May 25th at 10am – Streamed through Facebook.  Click Here
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December 22, 2019 at 4pm: Christmas Candlelight Service
December 22, 2019 at 4pm: Christmas Candlelight Service
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July 2: Frederick Douglass Reading at Seamen’s Bethel
July 2: Frederick Douglass Reading at Seamen’s Bethel
Monday, July 2, 2018 | 7:00-8:30pm Please join us at Seamen’s Bethel for a public reading of Douglass’ famous address first given in 1852. What to the Slave is the 4th of July? Commemorating the Bi-Centennial of Frederick Douglass 
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June 14, 6-8pm: Join us for AHA! night at the Seamen’s Bethel
June 14, 6-8pm: Join us for AHA! night at the Seamen’s Bethel
Thursday, June 14 is AHA! night in New Bedford!  Click the link for all the fun activities happening throughout downtown.  We’ll be open for “Every Kid in a Park” and for Launching a new life: Wedding prep with the 1850s Ladies. Ruth and Abby will be decorating and preparing Seamen’s Bethel for a wedding. Stop...
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Celebrate in the timeless elegance of the Seamen's Bethel — a venue steeped in history, beauty, and maritime grandeur.

Common Questions

Explore this section to learn more about our cherished landmarks — the Seamen’s Bethel and the Mariner’s Home — and discover how we celebrate and preserve them.

Are the venues accessible for individuals with disabilities?"

Absolutely. We can accommodate most disabilities and will provide additional support when needed. Please discuss this with a manager when booking.

Are there any restrictions or guidelines for hosting events, such as decor, catering, or noise levels?

Please contact us and discuss your needs. We will do our best to accommodate and to make your event a success.

How do I book, and what are the rental rates?

Simply reach out to manager@portsociety.com or visit our contact page and fill out the form. Rates vary depending on season, time/day, availability and other factors. A manager will always share our current rates with you.

What size wedding can you accommodate?

Our versatile venue gracefully accommodates weddings of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations.

Meet our Team

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Let’s talk!

We are looking forward to your visit to The Seamen’s Bethel.

Monday
8AM - 4PM
Saturday
8AM - 2PM
Sunday
Closed

If you are looking to book an event or need more help contact us today.

Gallery.

Anna & Michael Wedding
Anna & Michael Wedding
Anna & Michael Wedding
Anna & Michael Wedding
Anna & Michael Wedding
Anna & Michael Wedding
Anna & Michael Wedding
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
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New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park
Seamen's_Bethel
Seamens-Bethel-New-Bedford-MA
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