OUR HISTORY

 

The late Rev. G.L. Lillard organized the Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church in August 1922. Shortly after the church was organized, plans were made to come into a building of a storefront type located at 934 South Illinois Street. The Church was named by Sis. Emma

Lillard, wife of Pastor Lillard.

 

In 1927, the Church was remodeled under the pastorate of the organizer Rev. Lillard. While the church was under reconstruction, Bethesda worshipped in a tent on Maple Street, which later changed to Kenwood Ave. Rev. Lillard served the Bethesda Church for eight years.

During the early thirties, Bethesda called two Pastors to serve as our undershepherds. Rev. R.F. Gregory and Rev. Lumpkins both were a blessing to our church.

 

In the fall of 1935 Rev. G.M. Mimms, Associate Minister of the Mt. Paran Baptist Church was officially called to Pastoralship. Pastor Mimms served Bethesda faithfully for fifty-seven years. Under Pastor Mimms leadership, the church’s indebtedness was paid off, and a new worship center was built in 1970. Auxiliaries were added, we grew spiritually, numerically, and financially. Pastor Mimms was a Pastor who was loved by all and departed this life at the age of ninety-seven and was still active in Pastoralship until his death in 1992.

 

In the summer of 1993, Rev. L.A. Manuel III was called to Pastor our church. He is the fifth Pastor in our 93-year history. Under Pastor Manuel’s leadership, our church has seen significant growth and development spiritually, numerically and financially.

 

Under Pastor Manuel’s leadership, the church remodeled the sanctuary and purchased property. Bethesda has become a focused ministry as we try to minister holistically to men, women, and the community. Unfortunately, due to health challenges, the Lord called Rev. Manuel home in May, 2016.

 

After a tedious period of pastoral search, the church selected Rev. Timothy D. Ramsey, Sr. as their 6th Pastor. Rev. Ramsey hails from Detroit, Mi. but he and his family had been living in Nashville, TN eight years prior, where he served as Assistant Pastor to Rev. Darin Freeman, Sr., at the Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church.

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Shortly after his installation, Pastor Ramsey took prompt action to enhance the Christian Education Department and Discipleship initiatives by establishing a spiritual partnership with the Union District Baptist Association. He promptly introduced the Certificate of Progress Program to the congregation and subsequently became a certified instructor himself. Several members have successfully completed the entire COPP Program, and many participants have found the courses to be both informative and enlightening.

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In the Winter of 2018, the Lord placed upon Pastor Ramsey’s heart to start a giving campaign to remodel our building entitled “New Beginnings.” The Membership responded overwhelmingly, and the project began in the Spring of 2019. However, the global pandemic of Covid 19 halted the project, and it is scheduled to continue until its completion.

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During the Covid-19 pandemic, the “Tables of Mercy Food Ministry,” which was subsequently renamed in honor of the late Rev. L.A. Manuel III, suspended its operations. Our church has since redirected its efforts towards a new ministry model known as “Hands of Grace.”

 

In 2022, Bethesda commemorated its Centennial Anniversary of ministry. The celebration commenced with a Founders Day event in collaboration with South Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. The Centennial observance concluded with an elegant banquet inspired by the Roaring 20’s Harlem Renaissance theme.

 

Under the leadership of Pastor Ramsey our church stands as a vibrant witness to God’s Word, deeply rooted in scripture and active in the life of the community. Through faithful teaching, intentional discipleship, and compassionate outreach, it nurtures the spiritual growth of families and reflects Christ’s love in both word and deed.  

 

Pastor Ramsey notes the ongoing progress and accomplishments at Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church. The congregation recognizes various developments as the church seeks to demonstrate the principles of Acts 2:42-47 through dedication, outreach, and growth. Continued prayers for the church and its leadership are requested.

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