How it all started...
Bethel Memorial Church was founded in January 24, 1930 by Rev. John C. Cummins. It was first called The Gospel Tabernacle and became known as Bethel Memorial Church in 1959. The 160 charter members came from Princeton, Ft. Branch, and neighboring communities. For several weeks, the congregation met at IOOF facility in downtown Princeton.
This building was rented while the new Tabernacle was being constructed on the corner of Prince and Pinkney street in Princeton. Volunteer labor was used in addition to a contractor. This was being built during the depression times and many of the congregation borrowed on their life insurance policies or cashed them in to make funds available for the project. The completed building was just a roof and walls that were not sealed inside. The floor was the ground covered with a carpet of “sawdust” which had to be sprayed with a solution of paraffin oil every so often and sometimes changed completely. Pot bellied coal stoves which furnished some degree of heat.
This building was rented while the new Tabernacle was being constructed on the corner of Prince and Pinkney street in Princeton. Volunteer labor was used in addition to a contractor. This was being built during the depression times and many of the congregation borrowed on their life insurance policies or cashed them in to make funds available for the project. The completed building was just a roof and walls that were not sealed inside. The floor was the ground covered with a carpet of “sawdust” which had to be sprayed with a solution of paraffin oil every so often and sometimes changed completely. Pot bellied coal stoves which furnished some degree of heat.
Current location
On July 7, 1974 the church moved to its new location on Outer S. Main. In 1980, the church added a new kitchen, nursery and classrooms to the sanctuary. Bethel Christian School was formed in 1981. In 2005, the new church as it is today was completed adjoining the former structure.
In the last 20 years our physical structure has undergone various renovations. More importantly, the Lord has allowed us to continue to share his Word and His love. We seek to encourage and instruct children through our Sunday School Children’s Church and Awana ministry. Our School continues to offer a Christ-centered education for families in our surrounding area. Our youth program ministries to middle and high school students. It provides Biblical instruction, opportunities to serve and fellowship with their peers. We have varied ministries that help adults to grow in their faith and apply the truths of God’s Word.
In the last 20 years our physical structure has undergone various renovations. More importantly, the Lord has allowed us to continue to share his Word and His love. We seek to encourage and instruct children through our Sunday School Children’s Church and Awana ministry. Our School continues to offer a Christ-centered education for families in our surrounding area. Our youth program ministries to middle and high school students. It provides Biblical instruction, opportunities to serve and fellowship with their peers. We have varied ministries that help adults to grow in their faith and apply the truths of God’s Word.
Where we are headed...
Bethel has a desire to grow its impact in the community around us. We want to be a hub of events, missions, and charities in the surrounding area. The future looks bright as we strive to make an impact for another 100 years.
As we look to the future, we are committed to learning God’s Word and growing in our love for the Lord and for one another. If you are looking for a church home, we would love to get to know and worship and serve our wonderful Lord together.
As we look to the future, we are committed to learning God’s Word and growing in our love for the Lord and for one another. If you are looking for a church home, we would love to get to know and worship and serve our wonderful Lord together.
